"Is Federalism Conservative?"

An informative analysis by Robert Alt at NRO today:

.... But by casting stones at those who adhere to (or in Sutton's case, merely argue on behalf of) federalism, the Times and the liberal-advocacy groups simply demonstrate their misguided belief that the Constitution is an accumulation of policy preferences rather than a body of law. While the idea that law actually means something ordinarily sends shivers up a liberal's spine, it shouldn't in the case of federalism. Contrary to our liberal friends' assumption, federalism is not necessarily conservative. Rather, federalism is a series of constitutional rules, and as rules cut against both conservative and liberal positions alike. Yes, federalism will disappoint those who think that the only solution is a national one, but in terms of policy outcomes, federalism proves itself to be a neutral dealer....

(Thanks, John.)

Lane Core Jr. CIW P — Tue. 04/29/03 02:56:09 PM
Categorized as Political.