• Nullification In Today’s America

    May 25, 2023
    5 Comments
    Nullification In Today’s America

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    Nullification in the United States has been contentious since the Revolutionary War. Nullification means that a state government considers that it has the right not to follow the law made by the federal government. This subject has been debated among politicians and legal scholars for centuries. Nullification has a long history in the United States and was a precursor to the Civil War of 1861. In the republic’s early years, nullification was seen as a way for states to protect their rights against federal encroachment. However, the doctrine was largely discredited after the Civil War, when the Supreme Court ruled against states' rights in favor of a robust federal government. Despite this, nullification has continued to be a topic of debate in American politics, particularly regarding issues such as gun control and immigration. While some argue that nullification is a legitimate means of resisting federal authority, others see it as a dangerous and unconstitutional threat to the rule of law.

    The Nullification Crisis of 1832-1833 was one of the significant events leading up to the American Civil War. The crisis pitted the federal government against the state of South Carolina over the issue of tariffs. South Carolina believed the tariffs were unconstitutional and, therefore, null and void within their state. The federal government thought the tariffs were necessary to protect American industry and refused to back down. This led to a standoff between the two sides, with South Carolina threatening to secede from the Union if the federal government did not back down. A compromise was reached, but the issue of states' rights would continue to be a significant point of contention leading up to the Civil War.

    The debate over nullification and states’ rights versus federal government has been ongoing for centuries. Some argue that states should have the power to nullify federal laws that they deem unconstitutional, while others say that the federal government should have ultimate authority.

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    Those in favor of nullification and states' rights often point to the 10th Amendment of the Constitution, which states that powers not delegated to the federal government are reserved for the states or the people. They argue that the federal government has grown too powerful and that states should be able to limit federal overreach.

    On the other hand, those who support a robust federal government argue that the Constitution grants ultimate authority to the federal government and that nullification goes against the principle of a united country. They argue that allowing states to nullify federal laws could lead to chaos and undermine the federal government’s authority.

    Ultimately, the debate over nullification and states' rights versus the federal government is complex and ongoing. While both sides have valid arguments, it is essential to remember that the Constitution was created to balance power between the federal government and the states and that finding that balance is crucial for a functioning democracy.

    As a concerned citizen, a Constitutional Convention to amend the Constitution is a far better solution than nullification. While nullification may seem like a quick fix for addressing grievances with the federal government, it ultimately undermines the very foundation of our democracy. By contrast, a Constitutional Convention allows for a peaceful and democratic process to address flaws or issues with the Constitution. It provides a platform for all voices to be heard and for constructive dialogue to occur. Furthermore, amending the Constitution through a convention ensures that any changes made are done with the full participation and consent of the people rather than through the unilateral actions of a few states. Therefore, I urge our leaders to consider the benefits of a Constitutional Convention in tackling any constitutional issues that may arise.

    There is a debate among conservatives about the best approach to limit the federal government’s power. Many advocate for a Convention of States, while others support the John Birch Society’s calls for nullification. The Convention of States believes in using Article V of the Constitution to call a convention of state delegates who can propose amendments to the Constitution. They argue that this is the best way to rein in the federal government and restore power to the states. On the other hand, the John Birch Society believes in a more grassroots approach, working to educate and activate citizens to pressure their elected officials to adhere to constitutional principles. Both approaches have their merits, but ultimately, the goal is to limit the federal government’s power and protect individual liberty.

    The best solution should have long-term benefits. Whereas nullification provides immediate relief from laws considered onerous and illegal, it also creates conflict and a precedent of lawlessness, which may have deleterious effects. The optimal and longest-lasting solution is to amend the law of the land, that is, the US Constitution, so that it reflects the people’s will, maintains a balance of power, and is welcomed as a moral and ethical instrument of society.

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    Author

    Douglass Ross

    Douglas J. Ross is originally from Wisconsin and is a long-time resident of Miami, Florida. He is a veteran Navy pilot from the Cold War period, having graduated from the US Naval Academy. After retiring as an international airline Captain, he now works as an Investment Advisor and also volunteers with Patriotic groups like the Convention of States and the Association of Mature American Citizens. In his free time, he enjoys writing.

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    Cleat
    Cleat
    10 months ago

    And just how long before a convention of states is taken over by evil doers and used against us? Just like congress, doj, fbi, etc? Always consider the outcome if the shoe is on the other foot.

    Douglas Ross
    Douglas Ross
    10 months ago
    Reply to  Cleat

    A convention is not a perpetual institution. It would be held and business concluded in a short period of time, that is weeks or a few months. No evil could occur as it takes the concurrence of 38 state legislatures to pass any Amendments following the conclusion of the convention. Thanks for your comments.

    patti
    patti
    10 months ago

    I'm in favor of nullification but I don't think that's enough. The federal government is out of control, as are some states. Too many unconstitutional laws have been passed by our unethical, compromised or outright criminal legislators. Our government was established for honest men. I think we need to find some honest men and start again.

    Douglas Ross
    Douglas Ross
    10 months ago
    Reply to  patti

    Thanks for your comments. The Convention is the process to honest people back in government and leadership

    Rex Lee Reid
    10 months ago

    No, you cannot call a CotS every time the federal gov breaks the constitution to ad a new amendment to tell them to stop breaking the law. Nullification is the best path. Besides you don't want today's spineless or fascist morons doing a convention. Hell lets get a divorce here is a guide book. Divorce or Civil war #Freexit - Politics, Civil War, Writer (rexleereid.com)

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