Congressional

Call for Transparency: Harold Hongju Koh Urges Congressional Action Against ‘Secret Law’ Amid National Security Concerns

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Washington, D.C. – In his latest book, “The National Security Constitution for the 21st Century,” Professor Harold Hongju Koh advocates for a significant shift in legislative oversight to strengthen transparency on secret law. His recommendations come at a time when the stakes for maintaining the rule of law across government operations have rarely been higher, underscoring the urgency of reform. Secret law often remains hidden owing to national security concerns, encompassing undisclosed legal opinions by the Department of Justice, classified presidential directives, and unreleased court decisions. This concealed body of law poses challenges to democratic … Read more

Congressional Push for Presidential Pardon Intensifies as Environmental Lawyer Faces Unprecedented Punishment

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WASHINGTON — In a recent wave of executive clemency, President Joe Biden, extending grace to nearly 1,450 individuals, unexpectedly included his son, Hunter, raising eyebrows and some concern. This list, however, did not include Steven Donziger, a lawyer who has become notable for his environmental advocacy and subsequent legal troubles. Donziger, known for his legal battle against oil giant Chevron on behalf of 30,000 Ecuadorian farmers and indigenous people, fell afoul of U.S. courts through charges of contempt. This has sparked a contentious discussion about the intersections of corporate power and environmental justice. U.S. Rep. … Read more

New REINS Act Aims to Reinstate Congressional Authority Over Major Regulations, Enhancing Oversight and Accountability

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Washington, D.C. – In the evolving landscape of U.S. governance, the traditional role of Congress in regulatory oversight has diminished as a plethora of federal agencies has taken the helm in lawmaking. Concerns over this shift have sparked legislative actions, prominently the reintroduction of the Regulations from the Executive in Need of Scrutiny (REINS) Act by Senator Rand Paul and Representative Kat Cammack. This legislative move aims to restore Congressional authority over major regulatory decisions that have significant economic impacts, thus reasserting the foundational principles of democratic accountability and oversight. Under the structure of the … Read more

Alaska Court Decides Incarcerated Congressional Candidate Eligible for Election Ballot

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Anchorage, Alaska – A recent court ruling has confirmed that an incarcerated man running for a U.S. House seat in Alaska will remain a valid candidate on the ballot. This decision underscores a notable instance where eligibility to hold office transcends the confines of prison walls. The candidate, who is currently serving time in an Alaskan correctional facility, has been a subject of widespread attention and debate. His unique candidacy tests the boundaries of electoral law and the rights of incarcerated individuals to participate in democratic processes. U.S. District Judge Sharon Gleason upheld the man’s … Read more