The Founders Never Conceived of a President Like Trump
The article discusses the concerns of the Founding Fathers regarding the powers of the presidency, particularly the ability to issue pardons. It highlights George Mason's apprehensions about the potential for abuse of power stemming from this authority. The piece reflects on how the current political landscape, exemplified by President Trump, diverges from the intentions of the Constitution's framers.
- ▪In 1788, Virginia debated the ratification of the U.S. Constitution.
- ▪George Mason expressed concerns about the unchecked pardon power of the president.
- ▪The article suggests that the Founders did not anticipate a president like Trump.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
Politics The Founders Never Conceived of a President Like Trump Their belief that Congress would impeach a man who sought to serve as his own judge was misplaced. Jonah Goldberg / May 20, 2026 Illustration by Noah Hickey/The Dispatch (Photos via Getty Images/Wikimedia). Illustration by Noah Hickey/The Dispatch (Photos via Getty Images/Wikimedia). Audio Turn any article into a podcast. Upgrade now to start listening. Text Size Members can share articles with friends & family to bypass the paywall. Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Threads Email 0 Open and scroll to the comments section In 1788, Virginia convened a convention to debate the ratification of the new U.S. Constitution, promulgated in Philadelphia the year before. The pardon power proved to be a sticking point for some delegates.
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Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at The Dispatch.
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