Lately, the media has been buzzing about Articles I, II, and III of the U.S. Constitution. These are issues that have largely been settled for centuries. These sections define the powers of Congress, the President, and the courts—institutions now at the center of legal and political battles like we haven’t seen since the original Constitution debates. From presidential authority to congressional oversight and Supreme Court rulings, these constitutional foundations are shaping today’s biggest headlines.
Here’s what they cover and why they matter right now:
Article I – The Legislative Branch (Congress)
- Creates the House of Representatives and the Senate.
- Grants Congress the power to:
- Make laws.
- Control government spending.
- Regulate commerce.
- Declare war.
- Includes the Necessary and Proper Clause, allowing Congress to pass laws to carry out its duties.
- Why it’s relevant: Debates over congressional investigations, budget fights, and legislation to limit executive power are heating up. The Constitution has given the Legislative Branch the “power of the purse,” and the GOP in Congress has largely ceded that to President Trump. Raising legal concerns
Article II – The Executive Branch (The President)
- Defines the powers of the President and Vice President.
- Gives the President authority to:
- Enforce laws.
- Command the military.
- Appoint officials and judges.
- Issue pardons.
- Why it’s relevant: Legal battles over presidential immunity, executive orders, and potential overreach are making headlines, especially in regards to Trump.
Article III – The Judicial Branch (The Courts)
- Establishes the Supreme Court and allows for lower federal courts.
- Grants courts the power to:
- Interpret the Constitution.
- Rule on federal laws and disputes between states.
- Why it’s relevant: Supreme Court decisions on elections, presidential power, and congressional authority are shaping the future of American governance.
As major cases unfold, these constitutional pillars will determine how much power each branch truly holds.The actions by the Executive Branch are largely unprecedented and decisions that happen going forward will profoundly affect the nation’s future.