balance of powers

Distant view of the gold dome capital building in Olympia, Washington, USA

^{Hans Zeiger
May 10, 2020
Citizen Leadership}

State Legislature Should Have Stronger Oversight Role During Emergencies

_{Hans Zeiger
May 10, 2020
Citizen Leadership}

In recent weeks, many citizens have written to me requesting that the Legislature take action to address the COVID-19 crisis. The reality is that the Legislature’s formal power to act in this crisis is limited; it is the governor who has broad authority during times of emergency. As we look to the future, the Legislature must have a much stronger role during emergencies. Read More ›

^{John R. Miller
February 15, 2010
Citizen Leadership}

George Washington’s Tear-Jerker

_{John R. Miller
February 15, 2010
Citizen Leadership}

Civilian control of the military is a cherished principle in American government. It was President Obama who decided to increase our involvement in Afghanistan, and it is Congress that will decide whether to appropriate the money to carry out his decision. It is the president and Congress, not the military, that will decide whether our laws should be changed to allow gays and lesbians to serve in our armed forces. The military advises, but the civilian leadership decides. Yet if not for the actions of George Washington, whose birthday we celebrate, sort of, this month, America might have moved in a very different direction. In early 1783, with Revolutionary War victory in sight but peace uncertain, Washington and the Continental Read More ›