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

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

What Impact Have We Had

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.

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.

A protester holding up a sign that says "protect our democracy" in New York City,

What democracy means

Democracy is a system of government where the people freely select their leaders and those leaders are constrained while in office.

March 23, 2026

  • Building Pro-Democracy Collective Action
  • Protecting Elections
  • Shaping the Democracy of Tomorrow
  • Stopping the Consolidation of Power
  • Explainer
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

  • Stopping the Consolidation of Power
  • Explainer
Members of the National Guard saluting during a formal ceremony.

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

  • Stopping the Consolidation of Power
  • Explainer
National Guard troops near the Washington monument.

The Insurrection Act, explained

The Insurrection Act does not suspend the Constitution, impose martial law, or exempt the military from following all applicable state and federal laws.

November 26, 2025

  • Stopping the Consolidation of Power
  • Explainer
The interior of a Senate building.

How funding the federal government works

Government funding is not working the way it's supposed to because of illegal impoundments and pocket rescissions.

October 1, 2025

  • Stopping the Consolidation of Power
  • Explainer