The U.S. Has a Problem of Too Much Law. Here's How We Solve It

The "rule of law" sits high on the altar of American culture as a core national value. Law in America is as pure as law can be—impartial, precise, and therefore unquestioned, like the 10 Commandments. The mandarins of law debate fine points such as judicial deference but almost never ask doctors, teachers, employers, or civic leaders whether law supports or hinders them.

But Americans in their everyday activities see a different reality. Law is so dense that it is unknowable, and so complex that even large companies with huge legal staffs can't comply—more like the 10 Million Commandments.

Essays & ReportsAndrew ParkAugust 16, 2024Newsweek, Philip K. Howard

The Centrist Majority of Voters Want Government Overhaul

Here we are, led like sheep into an election to choose whether Joe Biden or Donald Trump should lead America at this perilous time. A clear majority disfavor the choice. Nor do the hot buttons of political debate between woke progressives vs. right wing conspiracists align with the views of most Americans.

Out in the real world, nothing much about government works as it should, with porous borders, broken schools, and homeless encampments. The list is long. Mandatory speech codes and other indignities of the nanny state fuel growing resentment.

Essays & ReportsAndrew ParkMarch 21, 2024Philip K. Howard, Newsweek

The Vital Republican Role for Fixing Broken Government

In his recent speech to Congress, President Joe Biden called upon America to "prove democracy still works." While many Americans agree with much of what he proposes, making government work requires more than new spending.

Essays & ReportsAndrew ParkMay 13, 2021Newsweek, Philip K. Howard

The Huge Voter Issue Democrats Are Ignoring

The Democratic convention reveals that the Biden-Harris ticket will try to appeal to voters with progressive promises dealing with racial disparities, healthcare, and the environment. But the expansive Democratic platform largely ignores one issue that most voters care about: the need to overhaul government.

Essays & ReportsJoshua FergusonAugust 20, 2020Philip K. Howard, Newsweek, Donald Kettl

Centrist or Radical, the Democratic Nominee Must Pledge to Reboot Washington

To challenge Donald Trump, Democratic candidates are debating leftist and moderate versions of progressive agendas. But what's needed most, polls suggest, is a candidate who addresses the main source of voter anger—Washington itself.

Essays & ReportsJoshua FergusonFebruary 17, 2020Newsweek, Philip K. Howard