Protecting Our Democracy Act
Summary
The "Protecting Our Democracy Act" is a comprehensive bill aimed at reinforcing checks and balances on presidential power, enhancing government transparency, and safeguarding elections. It addresses concerns related to abuses of presidential authority, congressional oversight, and foreign interference. The bill spans various areas, including pardon power, emoluments clauses, congressional subpoenas, whistleblower protection, and campaign finance regulations.
Expected Effects
If enacted, the bill would significantly alter the relationship between the executive and legislative branches. It would impose stricter limits on presidential actions and increase congressional oversight. The act also seeks to strengthen protections for whistleblowers and prevent foreign interference in elections.
Potential Benefits
- Limits Presidential Power: Prevents abuses of pardon power and ensures no president is above the law.
- Restores Checks and Balances: Strengthens congressional oversight and reasserts congressional power of the purse.
- Enhances Transparency: Increases transparency in government by requiring financial disclosures and reporting of foreign contacts.
- Protects Whistleblowers: Provides additional protections for whistleblowers and ensures accountability for acting officials.
- Defends Elections: Eliminates foreign interference in elections and promotes honest ads.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for Gridlock: Increased congressional oversight could lead to political gridlock and hinder effective governance.
- Increased Litigation: Expanded enforcement mechanisms may result in increased litigation and legal challenges.
- Unintended Consequences: Some provisions may have unintended consequences or create new loopholes.
- Executive Branch Efficiency: Restrictions on presidential power could impede the executive branch's ability to respond quickly to emergencies.
- Increased Bureaucracy: New reporting requirements and compliance measures may increase bureaucracy and administrative burdens.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill touches on several constitutional areas, including the separation of powers (Articles I, II, and III), the pardon power (Article II, Section 2), and the emoluments clauses (Article I, Section 9 and Article II, Section 1). The expansion of congressional power could raise questions regarding the balance of power envisioned by the framers. The bill's provisions related to elections and free speech may also implicate the First Amendment.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).