Title: “Drain the Swamp”: An Imperative for Restoring Constitutional Governance
In the November 2024 issue of Imprimis, Hillsdale College President Larry P. Arnn presents a compelling argument under the theme “Drain the Swamp.” This article, published in Volume 53, Number 11, calls for a restoration of constitutional governance, highlighting the pervasive influence of the administrative state, which Arnn describes as having nearly overtaken the original framework of American government.
The Urgency of Constitutional Restoration
Arnn’s central thesis revolves around the idea that the administrative or bureaucratic state has grown to an extent where it challenges the foundational principles laid out by the U.S. Constitution. He articulates that this bureaucratic expansion has led to a governance system where elected officials have less control, and appointed or career bureaucrats wield significant power, often insulated from democratic accountability. This, he argues, is contrary to the intent of the founders who envisioned a government where power is derived from the consent of the governed, not from unaccountable bureaucracies.
Echoes from the Founders
To support his argument, Arnn draws on the wisdom of the Constitution’s architects. For instance, James Madison in Federalist No. 51 warned, “In framing a government which is to be administered by men over men, the great difficulty lies in this: you must first enable the government to control the governed; and in the next place oblige it to control itself.” This quote underscores the necessity of checks and balances, which Arnn suggests have been undermined by the expansion of the administrative state.
Similarly, Alexander Hamilton in Federalist No. 78 emphasized the judiciary’s role in preserving the Constitution, stating, “Until the people have, by some solemn and authoritative act, annulled or changed the established form, it is binding upon themselves collectively, as well as individually.” Arnn might argue that the administrative state has bypassed this foundational principle by creating rules and regulations without direct legislative or public oversight.
Modern Issues Facing Americans
Arnn’s critique is reflected in various contemporary analyses and commentaries:
- Educational Influence: The control over education by bureaucratic bodies is seen as a departure from local and parental influence, echoing a sentiment from Thomas Jefferson who believed, “Educate and inform the whole mass of the people… They are the only sure reliance for the preservation of our liberty.” Modern debates around curriculum control and educational freedom resonate with these concerns, suggesting a need to return decision-making power to local communities.
- Economic Regulation: The bureaucratic state’s role in economic regulation has been critiqued for stifling innovation and free enterprise, a principle America was built upon. Adam Smith’s notion, “The natural effort of every individual to better his own condition… is so powerful, that it is alone, and without any assistance, capable of carrying on the society to wealth and prosperity,” aligns with Arnn’s call for reducing governmental overreach in economic affairs.
- Cultural and Social Governance: Issues like freedom of speech, religious liberty, and the erosion of individual rights through expansive regulatory practices are at the forefront. These concerns echo Benjamin Franklin’s caution, “Those who would give up essential Liberty, to purchase a little temporary Safety, deserve neither Liberty nor Safety.”
Conclusion
Arnn’s call to “Drain the Swamp” is not just about reducing the size of government but about realigning it with the constitutional vision of limited government, where accountability, transparency, and the rule of law prevail. His arguments are bolstered by historical reflections from the founders and complemented by contemporary analyses from conservative thinkers who warn against the perils of an unchecked bureaucratic state.
References:
- Arnn, Larry P. “Drain the Swamp.” Imprimis, Volume 53, Number 11, November 2024.
- Madison, James. Federalist No. 51. The Federalist Papers.
- Hamilton, Alexander. Federalist No. 78. The Federalist Papers.
- Jefferson, Thomas. Notes on the State of Virginia.
- Smith, Adam. An Inquiry into the Nature and Causes of the Wealth of Nations.
- Franklin, Benjamin. Pennsylvania Assembly: Reply to the Governor.
This article aims to provide a nuanced look at the challenges facing American governance through the lens of constitutional fidelity and historical wisdom, urging a reevaluation of how we govern ourselves in the modern era.