What historical events are drawn upon to highlight the need for updates to the Constitution?
The need for updates to the Constitution is underscored by drawing upon historical
events such as Abraham Lincoln's actions during the Civil War. It is noted that Lincoln used
the exigencies of war to eradicate slavery, even though it had previously been regarded as
a protected constitutional right. Additionally, there are references to the New Deal era and
the challenges faced in interpreting the Constitution to address the imperatives of the time.
The article also alludes to the potential for a new Civil War due to the challenges in the
current constitutional framework. These historical events serve to highlight the pressing
need for constitutional updates to align with contemporary moral imperatives and societal
advancements.
In what ways did Trump exploit the Constitution for his own benefit?
Trump exploited the Constitution for his own benefit in several ways. His election to
the presidency through the Electoral College, despite losing the popular vote, exemplifies a
system that worked to his advantage. Additionally, Trump benefited from the Senate's
judicial confirmation power, which allowed him to appoint three Supreme Court justices
without term limits or practical mechanisms of accountability. Furthermore, he utilized the
Constitution's absolute pardon power for self-interested reasons, demonstrating a clear
exploitation of its provisions. Overall, Trump's presidency highlighted how certain features of
the Constitution were leveraged to serve his personal and political interests.