The Proper Role of the United States Government in the Modern Era

The founding fathers of the United States, in their pursuit of a more perfect Union, sought to create an administration that would establish justice, insure domestic tranquility, provide for the common defense, promote the general welfare, and secure the blessings of liberty.

Modern Interpretation vs. Original Intent

Today, there is a significant debate surrounding the proper role of the U.S. government. Imho, the government's role should be limited to:

Securing the Borders: Ensuring that everyone residing in the country has legitimate status. Legal entry into the nation is crucial for maintaining order and national security. Fostering Interstate Communication: Encouraging states to collaborate and resolving disputes for the betterment of the nation as a whole. Interstate travel and communication should be seamless and free from hindrances. Global Diplomacy: Acting as a mediator and advocate for the United States in international affairs, supporting the role of the nation in the global stage.

For these reasons, I prefer the following interpretation: the U.S. should not be the singular, all-powerful entity it has become. Instead, it should function as a collection of 50 independent, yet interconnected states, all striving towards a common goal. This approach ensures that solutions and policies are tailored to local needs, rather than imposing one-size-fits-all mandates.

Constitutional Reminders

The Constitution itself provides clear guidance on the proper role of the federal government. It states:

"Provide for the common defense, promote the general welfare, and secure the blessings of liberty to ourselves and our posterity."

From this, it is evident that the primary responsibilities of the federal government should revolve around defense, welfare, and ensuring individual liberties.

Limitations on Federal Power

Imho, federal programs and bureaucracy should be minimized, and the powers of each branch should remain as originally intended. The federal government should focus solely on those areas specifically outlined in the Constitution, such as the common defense, interstate commerce, and certain welfare support.

The proper role of the federal government is to stay out of the way of the American people, allowing states and individuals to govern themselves to a greater extent. The Constitution itself emphasizes the State's rights to handle matters not specifically delegated to the federal government.

The Evolution of the Federal Government

Unfortunately, the federal government has evolved beyond its original intent. The rapid expansion of power since the Civil War, through the Gilded Age, the Progressive Era, and enhanced during both World War II and the Cold War, has led to a more unitary and less federal system. This transformation has resulted in a national government rather than a true conceptional federal republic.

The growth of federal power has been detrimental. It has led to the erosion of individual liberties and the transformation of citizens into mere subjects. The current political climate, dominated by Democrats, Progressives, Socialists, and others, has only exacerbated this trend, making the situation worse rather than better.

Conclusion

The original vision for the U.S. government, as outlined in the Constitution, is the foundation upon which our democratic system should be rebuilt. The role of the federal government should be minimal and focused, allowing states and individuals to thrive. Continuous vigilance and a return to the original principles of the Constitution are essential for restoring a true federal union and protecting the blessings of liberty for future generations.