Defending the Rule of Law

Our Work

In the 21st century, democracies tend to die by the erosion of democratic norms and guardrails rather than at the barrel of a gun.

Why Is This Important

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 exercised (and strengthened) to prevent government officials from abusing their 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 accountability for those who have attacked or undermined our democracy — regardless of their political standing
  3. Ensure meaningful checks and balances on executive power
  4. Stop abuses that target marginalized groups and their ability to participate in democracy
  5. Protect the ability of the public and the press to voice dissenting views
  6. Protect independent, non-politicized law enforcement and civil servant workforces

What Impact Have We Had

Secured a nationwide injunction blocking border wall construction without congressional approval and helped enact power-of-the-purse legislation to ensure future presidents cannot circumvent Congress.

Helped prevent a sitting president from politicizing the Department of Justice to interfere in an election, in part through a multi-year campaign organizing thousands of Department of Justice alumni.

Chris Murphy introducing the NOPE Act.

The No Political Enemies (NOPE) Act, explained

The NOPE Act will strongly disincentivize political targeting by creating meaningful accountability for abuses of power.

January 17, 2026

  • Defending the Rule of Law
  • Safeguarding the Public Square
  • Analysis
A close-up on the chest of a federal officer wearing a combat vest.

The Universal Constitutional Remedies Act, explained

The Universal Constitutional Remedies Act is a state law that allows individuals to sue any official — federal, state, or local — who violates the Constitution in court.

January 6, 2026

  • Defending the Rule of Law
  • Analysis

Understanding the National Guard 

Today’s National Guard plays dual roles as both a continuation of the earlier state militias and the primary combat reserve of the U.S. Army and Air Force.

November 26, 2025

  • Defending the Rule of Law
  • Analysis
National Guard troops near the Washington monument.

The Insurrection Act, explained

The Insurrection Act permits the president to use the federal military to suppress “any insurrection, domestic violence, unlawful combination, or conspiracy."

November 26, 2025

  • Defending the Rule of Law
  • Analysis