New Common Sense: How to Limit Government in the Age of Obama

July 9, 2013    |   Discover more at Heritage's First Principles webpage How to Limit Government in the Age of Obama In just the last week, the president announced initiatives he says will combat global warming, then announced he’ll hold off on implementing an important provision of his own ObamaCare law. It’s government by executive order, unlimited by any constitutional principle the Founders would recognize. But conservatives have many ways to push back. In Congress, lawmakers can withdraw funding from agencies that overstep their bounds. States can assert their rights as separate and independent sovereigns. And all Americans can use courts to sue to limit federal agencies. Here's how to push back... Obama's Declaration President Obama loves the Declaration of Independence so much that he cites it endlessly, whether he’s stumping for gay marriage or lecturing college graduates about their right to stay on their parent’s insurance for another half decade. Unfortunately, he’s entirely missing the point. So David Azerrad decided to make Obama’s life a bit easier, by drafting him a fitting “Declaration of Interdependence.” Completing the Founding No document is perfect, and that includes the Constitution. For example, when first ratified, it didn’t contain sufficient provisions to protect citizens against various encroachments by state governments. That changed on this date in 1868, when the 14th Amendment was ratified. Quote of the Week A lady asked Dr. Franklin Well Doctor what have we got a republic or a monarchy -- "A republic," replied the Doctor, "if you can keep it." - Benjamin Franklin, 1787 For more quotes, visit westillholdthesetruths.org     About The Heritage Foundation Founded in 1973, The Heritage Foundation is a research and educational institute — a think tank — whose mission is to formulate and promote conservative public policies based on the principles of free enterprise, limited government, individual freedom, traditional American values, and a strong national defense. The Heritage Foundation | 214 Massachusetts Ave NE, Washington, DC 20002 | 202.546.4400 | heritage.org