Ken Burns, an acclaimed filmmaker celebrated for his powerful documentaries, is honored with the Liberty Medal for his impact on American storytelling. Joined by co-director Sarah Botstein, they discuss the crucial role of narrative in shaping our understanding of history. They emphasize the importance of learning from the past to inspire civic responsibility. The conversation also touches on the enduring influence of figures like Thomas Paine and the global implications of the American Revolution, encouraging a deeper appreciation for democracy.

Join Justice Neil Gorsuch, a U.S. Supreme Court associate, and Janie Nitze, his former law clerk, as they delve into their book, Over Ruled. They discuss how excessive laws impact lives, spotlighting personal stories like John Yates, a fisherman ensnared in federal regulations. The conversation addresses overcriminalization through the tragic tales of Aaron Schwartz and Isis Brantley, urging for legal reform. They highlight the importance of civic engagement and education in nurturing democracy and protecting individual rights.

David Rubenstein, a best-selling author and philanthropist, dives into the essence of the American presidency. He discusses his book, which contrasts the legacies of iconic figures like Jefferson and Washington, emphasizing their complex histories. The conversation highlights the transformative role of adversity in leaders such as Franklin Roosevelt and the unique journeys of Truman and Eisenhower. Rubenstein also addresses the importance of informed citizenship and familial ties in shaping presidential legacies, urging a deeper understanding of America's political history.

In this engaging discussion, Patrick Spero, the incoming CEO of the American Philosophical Society’s Library & Museum, unveils the thrilling tale of André Michaux and his conspiracy entanglement with Thomas Jefferson in 1793. They explore Jefferson's possible role in a French government plot aimed at establishing an independent Louisiana. Spero sheds light on the ideological clash over American expansionism and the significance of Michaux's botanical discoveries, intertwined with the political dynamics of early America.

Matthew Seligman, a legal scholar from Stanford Law School, and Josh Blackman, a law professor from South Texas College of Law Houston, engage in a riveting debate on the legitimacy of special counsel appointments. They delve into Judge Aileen Cannon's controversial ruling regarding Donald Trump's indictment, discussing the complexities of classifying counsels as principal or inferior officers. The conversation highlights key constitutional precedents and the implications for future investigations involving political figures, unraveling the intricate balance of power in legal appointments.

Join Charles Cook, a National Review contributor; Melody Barnes, a University of Virginia academic; and Princeton historian Sean Wilentz in a spirited discussion on the core values of the American Idea. They explore the evolution of democracy from Jefferson to Lincoln and the importance of ongoing dialogue in a diverse political landscape. The guests also examine the complexities of liberty and equality, focusing on social justice and historical perspectives that continue to shape American values today. This enlightening conversation reinforces the resilience of the American experiment.

Steven Hahn, an author known for his expertise on illiberalism, and Manisha Sinha, a specialist in the Second American Republic’s history, shed light on America's complex political landscape. They discuss the historical roots of illiberalism, particularly during the Reconstruction era, and highlight the crucial activism of African Americans in shaping civil rights. The conversation also delves into the nuanced relationships between women's suffrage, racial inclusion, and the implications of anti-Chinese sentiment as part of America's ongoing struggle for democracy and equality.

August 8, 2024, marks the 50th anniversary of Richard Nixon’s resignation as president of the United States. His resignation came after the House Judiciary Committee voted recommend Nixon’s impeachment for high crimes and misdemeanors— which would have been the first impeachment since that of Andrew Johnson in 1868. In this episode, historians Garrett Graff, author of Watergate: A New History (2022), and Robert Doar, president of AEI, join Jeffrey Rosen to discuss Nixon’s resignation and its enduring legal legacy.    Resources:  Garrett Graff, Watergate: A New History (2022)  Garrett Graff, “A Vice President’s Life Can Change in a Flash. Nothing is the Same After,” Washington Post (July 23, 2024)  Robert Doar, “Five Lessons from the Nixon Impeachment Inquiry,” AEI Blog (Oct. 3, 2019)  Robert Doar, Opening Remarks, “The Impeachment of Richard Nixon: Reflections on the 50th Anniversary,” AEI (July 25, 2024)  New York Times Co. v. United States (The Pentagon Papers Case) (1971)  United States v. Nixon (The Tapes Case) (1974) Stay Connected and Learn More: Questions or comments about the show? Email us at podcast@constitutioncenter.org.   Continue today’s conversation on Facebook and Twitter using @ConstitutionCtr.   Sign up to receive Constitution Weekly, our email roundup of constitutional news and debate, at bit.ly/constitutionweekly.  You can find transcripts for each episode on the podcast pages in our Media Library. Donate

Join constitutional historians Keith Whittington from Yale and Anthony Michael Kreis from Georgia State as they explore President Biden's ambitious plan to reform the Supreme Court. They dive into term limits for justices, the challenging constitutional landscape, and the nuances of judicial ethics. The duo discusses the historical relationship between politics and the judiciary and how growing polarization impacts public perceptions of the court's legitimacy. Their insights shed light on the ongoing tensions and potential reforms necessary for a modernized judicial system.

Georgetown Law Professor Randy Barnett discusses the evolution of originalism from judicial restraint to constitutional conservatism. He explores his journey into originalism, the impact of influential figures like Spooner and Scalia, and the shift towards judicial constraint. The conversation delves into the Ninth Amendment, the conservative judicial movement, and the importance of advocating for constitutional principles.