As the United States marks the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, the document's grievances against King George III resonate with modern concerns about executive overreach. Claire Finkelstein, a law professor at the University of Pennsylvania, draws parallels between the colonists' complaints and actions taken by President Donald Trump, including the use of federal troops and pressure on the judiciary.
Historical Grievances and Modern Parallels
The Declaration of Independence lists multiple grievances, including the quartering of troops, standing armies during peacetime, and interference with civilian government. Finkelstein notes that similar tactics are evident today, such as the deployment of ICE and CBP officers, federalization of the National Guard, and use of federal troops in cities like Portland and Minneapolis. These actions, she argues, mirror the monarchical control that the founders sought to escape.
Military and Judicial Checks Under Threat
Trump's efforts to consolidate power have faced some resistance. The Supreme Court ruled in Trump v. Illinois that the administration violated the law by federalizing the Illinois National Guard without proper authority. However, Trump retains options like the Insurrection Act, which could be used to deploy troops over state objections. Finkelstein warns that the president's influence over the military, including the removal of top Pentagon lawyers, undermines the rule of law.
Election Interference and Immunity
The article raises concerns about potential military involvement in the 2026 midterm elections. Trump previously considered using the military to seize voting machines after the 2020 election, a plan he now regrets not executing. The Supreme Court's 2024 decision in Trump v. United States grants presidents immunity for official acts, potentially shielding Trump from prosecution for election-related military deployments. Finkelstein emphasizes that while the president may be immune, other officials in the chain of command are not, though Trump could offer pardons to secure loyalty.
Defending Democracy
Finkelstein calls on the American people to defend their democratic rights, particularly the right to vote freely. She warns that the erosion of civilian control over the military and the concentration of executive power threaten the foundational principles of the Declaration of Independence. The willingness of citizens to resist these threats will determine the future of US democracy.
