NR PLUS Law & the Courts

Understanding — and Appreciating — Clarence Thomas

By Walter Olson July 12, 2021

It’s time to set aside the old stereotypes and — in understanding how Thomas seeks to decide cases — allow ourselves the pleasure of listening to his own words.

Politics & Policy

‘Partly Constitutional’ Isn’t Enough: Senate Should Reject the ‘For the People Act’

By Walter Olson May 13, 2021

In other forms, parts of the Democrats’ election bill have already been struck down in the courts. But Democrats are proceeding anyway.

NR PLUS Law & the Courts

Progressive Governments’ Economic War on the NRA Fails in Court

By Walter Olson January 8, 2020

In California and New York, efforts to target the gun-rights group’s business relationships are being defeated on First Amendment grounds.

Law & the Courts

The Hashtag Prosecution against Exxon

By Walter Olson December 16, 2019

New York’s prosecution of Exxon deserves to be studied in law schools for years to come. But not for the reasons its authors once hoped.

Law & the Courts

Consent Decrees: Not Just for Cops

By Walter Olson February 4, 2019

Whatever good decrees accomplish, it should be pursued consistent with principles of federalism, fairness, and prudent limits to the arbitrary exercise of power.

Law & the Courts

What the Media Got Wrong about Jeff Sessions’s Consent-Decree Rules

By Walter Olson January 21, 2019

In their eagerness to cast the former attorney general’s move in a bad light, mainstream outlets missed some of the most salient facts.

Law & the Courts

The Tech Giants’ Misconceived Attack on Bail Bonds

By Walter Olson May 10, 2018

Refusing these ads is no way to help people or reform the system.

Culture

Is ‘The Star-Spangled Banner’ Racist?

By Walter Olson September 15, 2017

Was Key pursuing a grudge by describing, or misdescribing, the Corps of Colonial Marines as slaves? Or did he have the (predominantly white) conscripts in mind?

Politics & Policy

Outrage on Wheels

By Walter Olson March 17, 2017

The story that Trump’s budget would kill the Meals on Wheels program was false.