The Obama Administration, Fundamental Institutional Change, and the Constitutional Lawmaking System

Rappaport, Michael B., Constitutional Commentary

As a fusionist, (1) or moderate libertarian with conservative influences, I was alarmed by the election of Barack Obama and a largely Democratic Congress. Based on Obama's campaigning and his voting record, I believed that he was likely to strongly favor a variety of programs that would significantly increase the size of government. Combined with a Congress that had large Democratic majorities in both houses, the stage seemed set for a large expansion of government.

Increasing the risk of government growth was the financial crisis that preceded the election. The financial sector's significant problems led many people to anticipate a severe economic downturn, perhaps one approaching that of the Great Depression. With an emergency ofand the advowson of the church to Michaelhouse in Cambridge. This was later amalgamated by Henry VIII with King’s Hall to form Trinity College – they are still the Patron of the Benefice. We enjoy the Brother Bartholomew books of Susanna Gregory, and her blog contains an excellent article about Michaelhouse http://www.susannagregory.com/bonus-material/michaelhouse-a-lost-cambridge-college/

The first church would have been Saxon, the current building dates to the 12th century. The main part of the church is 13th century, built of locally quarried clunch ashlar and flint stones. The current restoration of the nave roof, parapets, window tracery, etc., is using some local clunch. Lovely 14th century porch, and marvellous 16th century parish chest.

Again, another high church, and some interesting figures supporting the roof. 14th century again.

I liked the simple altar in