American Habits

"When asked what kind of government the Constitution created, Benjamin Franklin responded, 'A Republic, if you can keep it.' Franklin—the founding father of American aphorisms—did not think the Constitution was perfect. But he believed it was as close to perfection as possible at the time. Franklin also appreciated that the Constitution’s future success depended upon the American people." James Wallner American Habits #goodgovernment #benjaminfranklin #usa #change

I'm delighted that Professor Joseph Campbell agreed to a follow up post-election interview with American Habits, where he offers up plenty of insight on the 2024 presidential race. Ever since I read "Lost in a Gallup"—a book that highlights the limitations and pitfalls of political polling—I’ve been fascinated by Joe’s analysis and research on political trends and presidential elections. While I’d heard a few comparisons between Donald Trump and Harry Truman on the campaign trail, I hadn’t considered the parallels Joe draws between VP Kamala Harris and Thomas E. Dewey. I think he makes a compelling case that Harris ran a very Dewey like campaign. #Election2024

Thank you National Review for allowing me to share some of my thoughts on the presidential election. I even make some predictions about the #2024Election, though perhaps not in the way many might expect. "While pushback against presidential edicts is largely driven by partisan loyalties in the states, it remains a crucial check against the dangerous expansion of the imperial presidency."

Our editor, Ray Nothstine, wrote an article in the Washington Examiner discussing the superiority of American civil society and charitable organizations in response to #HurricaneHelene. He pulled out a great line from Herbert Hoover, who president Coolidge put in charge of the federal response for the 1927 Mississippi River flood that highlights the power of voluntary associations in a crisis. “The safety of the United States is its multitudinous mass leadership.”

My latest in the federalism journal American Habits: the origins of the NC Institute of Political Leadership (IOPL) and why nonpartisan leadership training strengthens self-government. “Politics will always be a contentious enterprise,” I write. “But it need not be a vicious or fruitless one.” Bill Friday, Richardson Preyer, Smith Richardson Jr., and Walt de Vries featured prominently: https://lnkd.in/ekFYcYxW

Raging against the Electoral College is wildly applauded for the sake of stacking up power now so I wrote a succinct defense of the system Alexander Hamilton once described as "excellent." American Habits.

Next week, my book will have been out for six months! It feels longer and shorter all at the same time. Book reviews by friends and family are ego-boosting and affirming, but when a stranger reviews your book, there can be a bit of trepidation. This review by Ray Nothstine provides a unique insight into "The Fight You Don't See." He extracts points that others haven't highlighted. So, give it a quick look over. Then I invite you to dive into the book. It's available in paperback, digital, and audio. If you'd request it from your local library, that would mean a lot to me! Happy reading! Or listening! https://lnkd.in/eiTz9u96

When I submitted this article to Ray Nothstine for publication in the recently released elections issue of American Habits, I noted, almost sheepishly, "So...it's another one on George Washington..." Thankfully, Ray didn't mind because he knows as well as I do that even the obscure bits of Washington's wisdom deserve to be recovered. Restoring his legacy to its proper place of preeminence in American thought will go a long way toward instilling a sense of dutiful patriotism among Americans. The dutiful patriotism that Washington espoused and exemplified is, I believe, the most critical element in securing American self-governance and effective federalism for future generations. Unfortunately, much of Washington's wisdom gets buried under undue attention to his relationship with Sally Fairfax or fixation on how "aloof" he was. (He was actually quite genial, even though his bearing always commanded respect. Virtually everyone who knew him personally loved him and thought he was warm and amiable.) So, I'm thrilled at the opportunity to recover another gem from Washington's vast treasury of sound guidance for American governance, the bottom line of which is this: Don't place your trust in PACs, think tanks, or public opinion polls. Be shrewd about who you promote to offices of public trust because there's no substitute for “able and honest representatives.” https://lnkd.in/ejjCgkTE #Governance #GeorgeWashington #AmericanHistory

New Interview on election integrity & federalism with Ky Sec. of State Michael G. Adams! In this insightful conversation, you'll see why Michael Adams is a recipient of the prestigious John F. Kennedy Profiles in Courage Award. He shares his thoughts on safeguarding our elections and the vital role of federalism. Adams also touches on the uniqueness of Kentucky, explaining how the state’s flag and seal reflect a long history of bridging the urban-rural divide since the 18th century. Don't miss this deep dive into how the Bluegrass State continues to lead on key voting issues. #ElectionIntegrity #Federalism #Leadership #Kentucky #AmericanHabits

My latest article, featured in American Habits. "More than once, a celebrity candidate ran as a man of the people – and his opponent portrayed him as a dangerous demagogue. More than once, a party tried to swap out its candidate and change horses midstream. More than once, the legitimacy of the previous election became a major issue. More than once, a presidential candidate was portrayed as a sexual predator. More than once, presidential hopefuls were the targets of assassins. More than once, the rhetoric suggested our nation was reaching its end – though on one occasion, it was very nearly true. More than once, the press was there to pour oil on the fire." https://lnkd.in/gq2NHGK7