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Ellen K. Boegel
Ellen K. Boegel is America’s contributing editor for legal affairs.
Posted inDispatches, Politics & Society
What’s next for Brett Kavanaugh’s confirmation battle?
Judge Kavanaugh is an intelligent and competent jurist. Unless previously undisclosed foibles come to light, he will become the 114th justice to serve on the U.S. Supreme Court.
Posted inDispatches, Politics & Society
Can you take a knee and still show respect to the flag on June 14?
Many ostensibly patriotic Americans do not know and, if known, do not obey, that federal law prohibits using the flag “as wearing apparel, bedding, or drapery,” “embroidered on such articles as cushions or handkerchiefs” and more.
Posted inNews, Politics & Society
U.S. bishops applaud Supreme Court’s decision in favor of Christian baker
The chairman of the bishops’ conference said the decision “confirms that people of faith should not suffer discrimination on account of their deeply held religious beliefs.”
Posted inDispatches, Politics & Society
Racism makes a criminal justice system reform impossible
The effects of white privilege in law enforcement makes it clear that the promise of racial equality in the United States is still unrealized.
Posted inDispatches, Politics & Society
Crisis pregnancy centers in California at center of free speech fight
California, it is argued, cannot be permitted to enforce this law, which levies fines for noncompliance, against centers whose “sole mission is encouraging expectant mothers to give their children the opportunity for life.”
Posted inDispatches, Politics & Society
Union fees: where the U.S. bishops and the Becket Fund disagree
U.S. bishops are defending an Illinois law that permits government employees to join together in bargaining units and, by majority vote, designate a union to collectively represent them in contract negotiations and employment disputes.
Posted inDispatches, Politics & Society
Inaction and opportunity on gun laws around the country
Gun control advocates focus on “A.B.C.” initiatives: “A” for assault weapon and ammunition bans; “B” for background check enhancement; and “C” for closing the gun show and private sale loopholes that permit buyers to avoid existing federal checks.
Posted inDispatches, Politics & Society
Five things you should know about federal and state marijuana laws
The Justice Department is vowing to enforce a federal ban on marijuana, even as some states try to move toward full legalization.
Posted inDispatches, Politics & Society
The War on Christmas: Past, Present and Future
The establishment and free exercise clauses prohibit the government from impeding or requiring observance of any religious holiday, including Christmas.