OUR MISSION:
The National Federalism Initiative (NFI) and the National Federalism Commission (NFC) are a bold effort focused on re-balancing the foundational State-Federal governing partnership to enhance diversity among the States, reduce political friction and uncertainty, and strengthen our national union for the next 250 years.
We are a movement based in education, engagement, and leadership to re-establish functional American federalism -- the structural protection that secures to Americans the liberty that derives from the healthy allocation of powers between State and Federal governments.
OUR STRATEGY
Educate:
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Equip state and civic leaders, citizens, and educators with a functional understanding of State-Federal responsibilities and state powers to maintain a balanced governing partnership.
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Foster national thought leadership on functional federalism.
Engage:
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Create a state-led jurisdictional watchdog (akin to the Advisory Commission on Intergovernmental Relations, 1952-1996), to foster coordination and accountability.
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Implement networking tools for real-time State collaboration on jurisdictional matters.
Elevate:
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Convene an annual Summit of State leaders to explore the restoration of a functional State-Federal partnership.
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Build a nationwide coalition of state, federal, academic, and civic leaders to enhance state diversity and magnify the voice of the people.
WHY NOW?
“The structure of our Government is central to liberty,” Justice Antonin Scalia taught, “and when we destroy it, we place liberty at peril.” For decades, states left unheeded their responsibility to maintain the State-Federal balance at the heart of our governing structure. The uncertainty caused by this imbalance leaves Americans anxious that liberty is “at peril”.
This unique moment in our nation’s history compels States to restore this governing balance, facilitating a strong national union, a rich diversity among the States, and the certainty that our lives and livelihoods are not imperiled with every national election cycle.