Make Politics Local Again: The Case for Pro-Localization State Constitutional Reform
50 Pages Posted: 27 Jan 2022
Date Written: June 1, 2021
Abstract
This article traces how the sociopolitical realities that originally shaped our federal constitutional structure have shifted: A loose association of strong states has morphed into a full-fledged nation with bitter internal divisions that do not always map on to state lines neatly. America’s constitutional scheme has not kept pace with these developments. If we are to better align our governing structures “on high” with the sociopolitical realities “on the ground,” perhaps the answer isn’t federal constitutional reform, but certain state constitutional reforms that localize more governing power—especially in issue areas like criminal justice and the culture wars.
Keywords: States, Constitutional Law, State Constitutional Law, Local Government, State Government, Localization
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