Stopping the Consolidation of Power

our work

We work to prevent unchecked power, defend the rule of law, and protect the right to dissent.

Why Is This Important

The United States must maintain three co-equal branches of government, each with their own responsibilities. 

Would-be authoritarians often abuse their power, using it to eliminate checks and balances, quash dissent, target already marginalized communities, and deepen political divisions.

The Constitution and the laws we have built around it provide tools to constrain authoritarian behavior — but many of the norms and guardrails that help define our democracy are not written into law and are not self-enforcing. Together these restraints must be deployed (and strengthened) to prevent the executive branch from abusing its power and to ensure the law applies equally to everyone, from the most powerful to the least.

The kinds of outcomes we seek

  1. Uphold the principle that nobody is above the law.
  2. Ensure meaningful checks and balances on executive power.
  3. Stop abuses that target marginalized groups and their ability to participate in democracy.
  4. Protect the ability of the public and the press to voice dissenting views.
  5. Protect independent, non-politicized law enforcement and civil servant workforces.

What Impact Have We Had

Restoring OMB data

When the Office of Management and Budget stopped following a law that requires them to publicly share how the White House is using federal taxpayer dollars, we sued and forced them to restore the data.

Pushing for universal constitutional remedies

We are working with legislators in a number of states on legislation that would allow people to sue any official — federal, state, or local — who violates their constitutional rights.

The exterior of the White House. Authoritarianism is possible even here in America.

Authoritarianism, explained

Authoritarianism is a method of rule that suppresses political freedoms and civil rights, using various levers of control to shift power from the people to the hands of one ruler or set of rulers.

October 20, 2026

  • Protecting Elections
  • Shaping the Democracy of Tomorrow
  • Stopping the Consolidation of Power
  • Analysis
Hubert H. Humphrey building in Washington, DC

Speaking up from within the government

A practical guide to navigating speaking to reporters or the public while protecting yourself and respecting the law.

September 29, 2026

  • Stopping the Consolidation of Power
  • Toolkit