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Articles by John Turley
John Turley: Who pays for American politics? (Opinion)
In January 2010, the U.S. Supreme Court issued one of the most consequential and controversial campaign-finance decisions in modern American history. In Citizens United v. Federal Election Commission, the Court ruled 5–4 that corporations, labor unions and nonprofit organizations could use their funds to independently support or oppose political candidates. Supporters hailed the decision as a victory for freedom of speech.
John Turley: Church and state: One nation, under argument (Opinion)
Americans have been arguing about the place of religion and government since before the Constitution was written. Is this a Christian nation, or did the founders deliberately create a government that was not Christian? The question has never really gone away. It has recently resurfaced in a 224-page draft report from President Trump's Religious Liberty Commission. The Declaration of Independence unquestionably assumes a divine source for human rights.
John Turley: Refusing the needle: A history of vax hesitance (Opinion)
Every vaccine America has introduced has arrived with a shadow twin: a countermovement arguing that the preventive measure may be more dangerous than the disease — or that government has no right to require it. That argument is older than the United States itself, recurring with remarkable consistency from colonial smallpox to COVID-19. The story begins in Boston in 1721, when smallpox swept through a city of roughly 11,000 people.
John Turley: Socialism might not mean what you think it does (Opinion)
For much of the late 20th century, “socialism” was almost a forbidden word in American politics. Republicans used it as an accusation. Democrats generally avoided it. Politicians who actually called themselves socialists occupied a small place on the political fringe. Not anymore. Today, both the right and the left talk constantly about socialism, although they often mean entirely different things.
John Turley: In defense of Dr. Fauci (Opinion)
Last week, an 85-year-old physician sat before a Senate committee and — for the first time in more than 250 congressional appearances spanning five decades of public service — declined to answer. Dr. Anthony Fauci invoked his Fifth Amendment right against self-incrimination over one hundred times, telling the panel that its chairman's "evident obsession with calling for my prosecution" left him with no other reasonable choice.
John Turley: Trump, MAGA and the politics of permission (Opinion)
President Donald Trump did not invent a new American bigotry. He did something more subtle — and perhaps more consequential. He transformed long-standing resentments into a political identity and gave many people permission to express views they had previously kept private. That is the central question surrounding the Make America Great Again movement. Has MAGA created a new ethical worldview, or has it simply exposed attitudes that have long existed beneath the surface of American society?
John Turley: A political movement or a cult of personality? (Opinion)
The word “cult” is often tossed around in American politics as little more than an insult. But dismissing it outright can obscure something real. When political scientists and psychologists begin applying the term with specificity — pointing to identifiable patterns of behavior and belief—it deserves more than a reflexive eye roll. The question is not whether “cult” is too strong a word for the MAGA movement.
John Turley: The modern battle over books (Opinion)
If you thought book banning was a relic of the past, think again. The United States is in the midst of the most intense wave of book challenges in modern memory, and the consequences reach far beyond a few controversial titles. According to PEN America, nearly 23,000 book bans have taken place in public schools since the fall of 2021, an assault on the freedom to read that would have seemed unthinkable just a decade ago.
John Turley: How the DOJ was transformed into a revenge tool (Opinio)
There is an old legal maxim: fiat justitia ruat caelum — let justice be done though the heavens fall. It expresses a simple principle: the law should apply equally to everyone, regardless of power or politics. The concern raised by President Donald Trump's second presidency is whether that principle is being replaced by another: that the Department of Justice exists — at least in part — to pursue the president's personal enemies. That is a serious charge, and it should not be made lightly.
John Turley: U.S. at 250: A revolution remembered or rewritten? (Opinion)
I’m old enough to remember the 200th anniversary of the American Revolution. Bicentennial symbols were everywhere — Liberty Bells; eagles; that red-white-and-blue star logo slapped on hats, T-shirts, beer cans; and even a special “Spirit of ’76” Ford Mustang. People had full-blown bicentennial fever. The 250th anniversary is a different animal. Even the official name — Semiquincentennial — sounds like something you’d need a medical degree to pronounce.
John Turley: The pattern of Roberts Court speaks for itself (Opinion)
Chief Justice John Roberts keeps telling Americans the Supreme Court is not political. He recently complained that people “view us as purely political actors,” and insisted that’s just not how the Court works. That might have been plausible 20 years ago. After the decisions of the past decade, it sounds less like reassurance and more like spin. The Roberts Court started out conventionally conservative.
John Turley: The politics of personal gain (Opinion)
For the past 15 months, most critics of the Trump administration have reached for the word autocrat — a leader who consolidates power, dismantles checks and balances, and bends institutions to his will. That description isn't wrong. But it's incomplete. The longer I study what's happening, the more convinced I am that the more accurate term is kleptocrat — a ruler who uses the machinery of government as a tool for personal enrichment. The distinction matters more than it might seem.
John Turley: Is ICE becoming a personal militia? (Opinion)
The question of whether Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is evolving into something resembling a personal political militia for President Trump is no longer merely a fringe talking point. The factual record that has accumulated since January 2025 demands a serious look. The scale of what has happened is genuinely unprecedented. When Trump returned to office, ICE was holding roughly 40,000 people in detention on any given day.
John Turley: Lady Liberty: The statue we think we know (Opinion)
Ask most Americans what the Statue of Liberty means and they'll say the same thing: she welcomes immigrants. She is the "Mother of Exiles," keeper of the golden door. That image is so deeply woven into the national identity that it has been quoted, protested and debated for more than a century. The only problem is that it wasn't what her creators originally intended. The story begins in 1865, just weeks after the Civil War ended, at a dinner party near Versailles.
John Turley: Suprisingly serious history of the Easter Bunny (Opinion)
Every Easter morning, children across America hunt for eggs left by a rabbit. It’s a charming ritual, and a strange one, when you stop to think about it. Rabbits don’t lay eggs. They don’t carry baskets. Yet here we are, every spring, maintaining the fiction with great enthusiasm. Where did this tradition come from? The answer turns out to be a lot more interesting than you might expect. The story starts in Germany.
John Turley: Why no one knows what health care costs in US (Opinion)
Imagine walking into a store where nothing has a price tag, and every customer pays a different amount for identical items — and you only find out your total after you've already bought everything. Welcome to American health care, where "how much does this cost?" has no simple answer. Thank you for Reading Please purchase a subscription or disable your ad blocker to continue reading. Subscribe Today Monthly and Annual Rates Secure transaction. Cancel anytime. Already have an account?
John Turley: How herd immunity really works (Opinion)
Picture your community as a fortress. The stronger the walls and the more guards on duty, the harder it becomes for invaders to breach the defenses. Herd immunity works similarly. It’s your community’s invisible shield against infectious diseases, and vaccination is the primary way we build and maintain that protection. Initial observations of herd immunity arose from livestock studies in the early 20th century.
Navigating Employment Challenges with Confidence
Employment issues are some of the most complex challenges facing both employers and employees today. With Employment Tribunal claims on the rise, businesses must balance strict legal compliance with the need to maintain positive and productive workplaces. At the same time, employees are increasingly aware of their rights and are seeking clear, practical advice when disputes occur.
The Harmful Grip of Cigarette Smoking
Press enter or click to view image in full size Cigarette smoking remains one of the leading causes of preventable death worldwide. In the more than 65 years since the US Surgeon General first required health warnings to be placed on cigarette packs, significant progress has been made in reducing the rates of smoking. In 1965 about 45% of US adults were smokers and today fewer than 12% smoke on a regular basis. Youth smoking rates have also declined dramatically.
John Turley: When proof if isn't enough: the war on science (Opinion)
While I would never call myself a scientist, as a physician my whole professional life is built on the belief in and the trust of science. I am distressed that so many people have chosen to disregard trust in science in favor of misinformation. Throughout history, scientific discovery has been humanity’s most reliable guide to progress. From the germ theory of disease to space exploration, science has reshaped how we live and what we believe possible.
Frédéric Bazille: The Impressionist Who Never Saw Impressionism
Press enter or click to view image in full size I like to think of my research and my writing as being eclectic, although sometimes I have to admit they may be better described as unfocused. This post may be an example of one of those episodes. Recently I was looking through a magazine and saw an ad with an illustration that was obviously based on Monet’s Garden in Giverny.
A Simple Guide to Understanding Common Blood Tests
Blood tests are a common part of both health maintenance and diagnostic visits. Doctors order blood tests to assess and monitor various aspects of a patient’s health. Blood tests can help detect illnesses, confirm a diagnosis, or monitor ongoing health conditions. For example, a complete blood count (CBC) checks for conditions like anemia or infection, while a lipid panel measures cholesterol levels to aid in assessing heart disease risk.
Bread and Circuses: From Ancient Rome to Modern America
Press enter or click to view image in full size “Already long ago, from when we sold our vote to no man, the People have abdicated our duties; for the People who once upon a time handed out military command, high civil office, legions — everything, now restrains itself and anxiously desires for just two things: bread and circuses.” Nearly 2,000 years ago, Roman satirist Juvenal penned one of history’s most enduring political observations: “Two things only the people anxiously desire — bread...
Presidential Trivia
Two of my favorite subjects are American history and trivia. When my wife and I first got married one of our favorite ways to spend time with friends was to play the then popular game Trivial Pursuit. That's when I discovered that I am the master of useless information, the repository of all things that will never earn me any money. But it's still fun and when I can combine my love of trivia with my love of American history, so much the better.
A Tale of Two Visions
Recently, I've been looking at various political philosophies. I've written about fascism, totalitarianism, authoritarianism, autocracy and kleptocracy. In this post I'm going to look at theoretical communism versus the reality of Stalinist communism, and I would be remiss if I didn't at least briefly mention oligarchy as currently practiced in Russia.
Lessons for Today's World
Recently I was reading an article about the poor state of historical knowledge in the United States, and I decided to repost my first article from when I started blogging almost five years ago. It seems very little has changed. "Study the past if you would define the future," - Confucius. I particularly like this quotation. It is similar to the more modern version: Those who don't learn from the past are doomed to repeat it.
The Erosion of Decorum in Public Discourse
The nature of public debate has undergone a dramatic change in recent years. Civility and reasoned discourse - once the hallmarks of political and social commentary - have given way to something closer to a verbal battleground. Today's public exchanges are increasingly defined by inflammatory rhetoric, personal attacks, and an abandonment of long-held norms of decorum. From Respectful Dialogue to Profanity-Laced Exchanges The decline is nowhere more evident than in the normalization of profanity.
What Happened to Critical Thinking?
Recently we have seen a significant increase in childhood diseases that previously had been well controlled with vaccines. There are a number of factors at play here. One is the pandemic which reduced doctor's visits and with it some routine vaccinations. But the most significant factor is the resistance among the vaccine deniers not just to the COVID vaccine, but vaccines in general. As a physician, this is especially troubling to me.
Why We Choose Not to Know
One afternoon during the COVID lockdown, I found myself scrolling through online news sites, looking for something to read. I noticed that I was skipping over sources I knew I'd disagree with. That surprised me. I've always considered myself a proponent of critical thinking. Yet here I was, practicing its antithesis-willful ignorance - intentionally avoiding evidence that might challenge my beliefs. That moment made me wonder: why do we do this?
The First Amphibious Landing
The Continental Marines at Nassau When the Second Continental Congress authorized the creation of the Continental Marines on November 10, 1775, few could foresee their pivotal role in orchestrating North America's first amphibious assault less than four months later. The operation against Nassau, on New Providence Island in the Bahamas, was born of necessity, marked by improvisation, and ultimately set the tone for Marine Corps operations - an audacious legacy that endures to this day.
Is Fairness a Moral Principle or Just a Feeling?
We live in a culture obsessed with "fairness." If something doesn't go our way, we brand it "unfair." If it does, we call it "fair." But fairness is inherently subjective: what's fair to you may feel wildly unfair to me. When Fairness First Mattered I first noticed this in my kids. Whenever I told them "No," they'd cry, "That's not fair!"- but could only shrug when I asked why.
What Would Jefferson Think About Inserting Religion Into Public Education?
Thomas Jefferson had strong views on the separation of church and state, and based on his writings, it's likely that he would have opposed any attempt to inject religion into public education. Jefferson's views on religion were deeply influenced by Enlightenment principles, particularly the era's emphasis on reason, skepticism of traditional authority, and commitment to individual liberty.
When It's Normal and When It's an Emergency
That sudden awareness of your heart beating faster, skipping a beat, or pounding in your chest can be unsettling. You're experiencing what doctors call palpitations, and while they might feel alarming, they're actually quite common. Understanding what causes them, when to worry, and how they're treated can help put your mind at ease. What Are Heart Palpitations? Heart palpitations are essentially your heightened awareness of your own heartbeat.
The Unnecessary Battle
Anyone with even a passing familiarity of the history of World War II knows about the major island campaigns in the Pacific: Guadalcanal, Tarawa, Iwo Jima and Okinawa. But unless you are a student of military history or perhaps a former Marine, you've probably never heard of the Battle of Peleliu The Battle of Peleliu, fought from September 15 to November 27, 1944, stands as one of the most controversial and costly operations in the Pacific Theater.
When Leaders Become Thieves
Like many other people, I have spent the last nine months worried about the autocratic direction of the Trump administration and his obvious desire to create a personal dictatorship. But the more I read and the more I watch what's going on, the more I realize how naive I have been. I don't believe he is simply an autocrat desiring political power, I believe he is truly a kleptocrat wanting to use the government as his personal source of wealth.
Totalitarian and Authoritarian Systems
Since January 20th there has been extensive use of the terms authoritarian and totalitarian to refer to the actions of the current administration. While totalitarian and authoritarian are often used interchangeably, they represent similar but distinct forms of governance with critical differences. If we're going to hold rational discussions about these theories, we should be using the same terminology.
"From The Halls of Montezuma"
The Evolution of the Marine Corps Hymn The opening line of the Marine Corps Hymn, "From the halls of Montezuma to the shores of Tripoli," stands as one of the most recognizable phrases in American military tradition. But what are The Halls of Montezuma? Where are the Shores of Tripoli? Why are they important to Marines?
Button Gwinnett
An Almost Forgotten Signer of the Declaration of Independence History is full of people both little known and unknown who were present at important events. They may have participated, or they may simply have been observers. Understanding them, their lives and their involvement can help us to understand the human aspect of historical events. This is what I love most about history, the stories of average people.
Understanding and Managing Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is one of the most common digestive disorders; it affects millions of people worldwide. Under normal circumstances, the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) acts as a one-way valve, allowing food and liquids to enter the stomach while preventing stomach contents from refluxing back into the esophagus. In GERD, this sphincter becomes weakened or relaxes inappropriately, allowing acidic stomach contents to flow upward into the esophagus.
The Quasi-War
America's Undeclared Naval Conflict with France Following the American Revolution, the newly independent United States found itself caught between the competing imperial ambitions of Britain and France. What began as tensions over trade and neutrality escalated into an undeclared naval war and became the country's first international crisis. The Quasi-War, as historians have named this conflict, was a pivotal moment in early American history when the republic's survival hung in the balance.
A Guide for Older Adults
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) affects approximately 37 million Americans, with adults over 65 representing the fastest-growing group diagnosed. Often called a "silent disease," CKD can progress for years without noticeable symptoms, making awareness and early detection crucial for preserving kidney function and overall health. Chronic kidney disease occurs when the kidneys gradually lose their ability to filter waste products and excess fluid from the blood.
Prevention and Awareness
This topic is very personal to me. In the past three years I've had two major falls. The first put me on crutches for several weeks. The second resulted in shoulder replacement surgery. I now find myself constantly worried about stairs, curbs, broken pavement, holes and roots in the lawn and many other elements that may put me at risk for another fall. I constantly remind myself that gravity is unforgiving and concrete even less so. Fortunately, I was wearing my Apple Watch when I fell.
One for the Road? How Alcohol Affects Us as We Age
I've always enjoyed a cocktail or glass of wine with dinner, but recently I've noticed that if I decide to have a second drink it affects me more than it ever has before. As we age, our relationship with alcohol undergoes significant changes that many people don't fully understand. What might have been a manageable glass of wine or cocktail with dinner in your thirties can have dramatically different effects in your sixties and beyond.
The Constitutional Foundations:
Who Controls Elections? Donald Trump has repeatedly claimed that the president should have broad authority to change how elections are conducted - particularly when it comes to abolishing mail-in voting and voting machines.
John Turley: Who controls elections? It isn't the president (Opinion)
Donald Trump has repeatedly claimed that the president should have broad authority to change how elections are conducted, particularly when it comes to abolishing mail-in voting and voting machines. As recently as this month, Trump pledged to issue an executive order banning mail-in ballots and voting machines ahead of the 2026 midterm elections, insisting that states must comply with his directive.
A look at the document that defined America (Opinion)
When Americans celebrate the Fourth of July, we imagine fireworks, flags and a dramatic reading of the Declaration of Independence. We think we know the story: The Continental Congress selected Thomas Jefferson to write the declaration. He labored alone to produce this famous document. Congress then approved it unanimously and it was signed on July 4, 1776. But the truth is far different and more complex.
John Turley: A look at the document that defined America (Opinion)
When Americans celebrate the Fourth of July, we imagine fireworks, flags and a dramatic reading of the Declaration of Independence. We think we know the story: The Continental Congress selected Thomas Jefferson to write the declaration. He labored alone to produce this famous document. Congress then approved it unanimously and it was signed on July 4, 1776. But the truth is far different and more complex.
John Turley: A look at the document that defined America (Opinion)
When Americans celebrate the Fourth of July, we imagine fireworks, flags and a dramatic reading of the Declaration of Independence. We think we know the story: The Continental Congress selected Thomas Jefferson to write the declaration. He labored alone to produce this famous document. Congress then approved it unanimously and it was signed on July 4, 1776. But the truth is far different and more complex.
John Turley: Loose child labor laws show what we've forgotten (Opinion)
Earlier this year the West Virginia Legislature passed a law eliminating work permit requirements for 14- and 15-year-olds and opening hazardous occupations to older teens. It’s a policy shift that echoes a much darker chapter of American history — one most of us thought was long behind us. As I read the news, I couldn’t help but recall Lewis Hine’s haunting photos of the “Breaker Boys” — children as young as 8 sorting coal in dangerous conditions.
John Turley: America at 250 (Opinion)
I’m old enough to remember the 200th anniversary of the American Revolution. Bicentennial symbols were everywhere. Liberty Bells, eagles and the ubiquitous bicentennial logo of the red, white and blue stylized five-point star. They could be found on hats, T-shirts, socks, soft drink cups, beer cans and even a special “Spirit of ‘76” edition of the Ford Mustang II. Commemorative events and celebrations were being planned everywhere and people had “bicentennial fever”.
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