Source: Law & Liberty
by Sarah Burns
“One of the most valuable elements of the creation of the Constitution was the deliberation that took place in the Philadelphia Convention. The very act of discussing important matters of state over the course of time allows for compromise and clarity (and likely a good deal of frustration). The act of deliberation is an important safeguard in democracy. It is even more important in deciding about war and peace. I think most founders thought there should be some discussion about when to initiate hostilities, with a land invasion as an exception. Beyond that, I still think the founders and many who followed thought that it was important, arguably necessary for a president to ask for congressional permission, wait for their deliberation, and accept the result. … Presidents today have too many tools at their fingertips. They barely even ask forgiveness, let alone permission. Worse still, Congress doesn’t force presidents to do so.” (09/30/25)