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Articles by Robert Levy
Anti-Weaponization Fund, Trump, corruption
DEMOCRACY WATCHWhat Can Be Done About President Trump’s Slush Fund? Published 2 June 2026 Others have examined the details and criticisms of Trump’s slush fund, noting that its aim is to financially reward people who have broken the law in order to serve Trump’s interests. Here, I focus on legal issues and remedies.
Cato at Liberty Cato at Liberty
Generated with ElevenLabs AI technology. On May 18, federal judge Kathleen Williams dismissed two of President Trump’s legal claims: (1) his $10 billion lawsuit against the IRS for failing to stop a former contractor from illegally disclosing Trump’s tax returns to the New York Times and ProPublica; and (2) his $230 million claim for legal fees related to the 2022 search of Mar-a-Lago and the investigation of his alleged ties to Russia.
Cato at Liberty Cato at Liberty
Generated with ElevenLabs AI technology. One recommended goal in conducting congressional elections is to approximate proportional representation—where the percentage of Republican vs. Democrat vs. “Other” Congress members resembles the mix of registered voters in the state. But under our current structure of single-member districts (SMDs)—one congressional seat in each district—that’s unlikely to happen.
Gerrymandering, politics, democracy watch
DEMOCRACY WATCHAnother Look at Gerrymandering Published 4 May 2026 Perhaps the ultimate solution to the gerrymandering issue lies in a congressionally prescribed voting regimen that incorporates multi-member districts, at-large candidates, or outcomes that are proportional to party affiliation. To be sure, those options raise additional problems—a topic for another day. On April 29, in Louisiana v. Callais, the Supreme Court examined what might be characterized as reverse gerrymandering.
Cato at Liberty Cato at Liberty
Generated with ElevenLabs AI technology. On April 29, in Louisiana v. Callais, the Supreme Court examined what might be characterized as reverse gerrymandering.Four years earlier, in 2022, a federal judge ordered the state to redraw its congressional map to create a second majority-Black district. Previously, only one of six districts was majority-Black, even though 33 percent of the population was Black. After the legislature complied, non-Black voters claimed reverse discrimination.
Understanding the Difference Between Preemption and Novelty/Nonobviousness
“Keeping in mind the distinction between preemption and novelty/non-obviousness should aid in understanding Supreme Court and Federal Circuit case law on patent eligibility even if the courts continue to blur these terms.” Recently, the United States Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit issued its opinion in Solutran, Inc. v. Elavon, Inc., 2019-1345, 2019-1460 (Fed.
What To Do After Being Served With A Lawsuit: Steps To Protect Your Legal Rights
Scarinci Hollenbeck LLC are most popular: within Compliance, Consumer Protection, Government and Public Sector topic(s) Being served with a lawsuit is one of the most stressful legal events a business or individual can face. Whether the claim involves a contract dispute, an employment matter, an intellectual property issue, or another legal challenge, the actions you take in the first few days can significantly shape the outcome of your case. Acting quickly and strategically is essential.
The Pioneer Who Built the Cato Institute
On the exclusive list of persons who have had the greatest impact on the pro-liberty movement, Ed Crane’s name is preeminent. He built the Cato Institute from an inconspicuous, small-scale operation into a public policy powerhouse—the world’s foremost proponent of individual liberty and limited government. Ed was a legend in the libertarian community. Even now, as we mourn his passing, he remains a legend for his enduring contributions in pursuit of human freedom. I first met Ed in the early 1990s.
The Declaration, the Constitution, and America's 250th
Generated with ElevenLabs AI technology. In anticipation of our nation’s semi-quincentennial, here are my reflections—some previously published—on a dozen key questions related to America’s founding documents. 1. What foundational political question did the Declaration and the Constitution seek to answer? The essence of both documents is to establish the proper relationship between individuals and their government.
Column: A Bipartisan Effort Should Rebuild Dix Hill
According to his mother, Decarlos Brown was suffering from schizophrenia when he allegedly knifed young Iryna Zarutska on a Charlotte light rail train. The mother stated she tried to get him help, and he received medication. But Brown refused to take it. He just stayed at home talking to himself. The mother took him to the local mental hospital, as ABC News reported.
Even with COPD, I can help others ensure their needs are met
I’ve recently been reflecting on how Maslow’s hierarchy of needs intersects with chronic illness, moderate means, and the dignity of helping others. I’m doing so through the lens of my chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and the relationship that I’ve built with the young man who helps me with my yard work. According to Maslow’s hierarchy, our basic physiological needs are at the bottom of the pyramid, and our self-actualization needs are at the top.
Whale of a summer job
(Sept. 21, 2025) In the mid-1970s, I had the good fortune of spending my teenage summers working at two beloved Nantucket institutions: the Gaslight Theatre and later, The Movie Museum at Bennett Hall. Looking back now, at 67 years old, those summer jobs still feel like the best job a teen could ever have. We came to Nantucket for the summer. My father asked me what I was going to do on the island for the entire summer. I didn’t really know. He told me that he knew, I was going to get a job.
Column: Let’s Be Serious with the Science And Look Objectively at Fluoride
Southern Pines was one of the first municipalities in the nation to add fluoride to drinking water. It seemed like a good idea. Fluoride was proven to reduce cavities in children. And, let’s be honest, we all know of parents who failed to teach their children proper oral hygiene. Fluoridated water helped protect those children. kAm%96 255:E:@? @7 7=F@C:56 W:? 255:E:@? E@ E92E 6I:DE:?8 :? D@>6 H2E6C ?2EFC2==JX H2D A2CE @7 2 EC6?5 368:??:?8 :?
What Is Antitrust Litigation Law?
Antitrust laws are designed to ensure that businesses compete fairly. There are three federal antitrust laws that businesses must navigate. These include the Sherman Act, the Federal Trade Commission Act, and the Clayton Act. States also have their own antitrust regimes. These may vary from federal regulations. Understanding antitrust litigation helps businesses navigate these complex legal requirements. Antitrust litigation can be initiated by state and federal regulators.
Column: If We Wipe it All Out, Surely Then We Can’t Go Home Again
My family came to Moore County in 1953. During my childhood, shopping was done in the various downtowns. Belk, where many shopped for family clothing, was in downtown Aberdeen, as was a major furniture store. The largest supermarket was in Southern Pines. It was the A&P on Pennsylvania Avenue, just across from my parents’ first fabric shop. WEEB, the sole radio station, broadcast only from dawn until dusk. I often daydream about those days.
Column: A Geezer Tries To Visit The DMV and Wonders If We’ve All Been Forgotten
I thought a fall vacation would be nice. Perhaps I would “fly” to Miami and take advantage of the lower summer rate at the Fontainebleau. Perhaps it would also be convenient to have a “Real ID” driver’s license for the flight. No rush. I have a more real ID: my passport. I then remembered that my driver’s license expires in December. As a geezer, I have to renew it in person.
A Geezer Tries To Visit The DMV and Wonders If We’ve All Been Forgotten
I thought a fall vacation would be nice. Perhaps I would “fly” to Miami and take advantage of the lower summer rate at the Fontainebleau. Perhaps it would also be convenient to have a “Real ID” driver’s license for the flight. No rush. I have a more real ID: my passport. I then remembered that my driver’s license expires in December. As a geezer, I have to renew it in person.
On the Expansion of Executive Power: Addendum II
Generated with ElevenLabs AI technology. In earlier posts—February 25, 2025, and May 20, 2025—I examined proposals by President Donald Trump to enlarge his powers and those of the executive branch. Since then, the president has plowed ahead, issuing a barrage of new executive orders. Hence, this addendum to explore topics not previously covered.
File Early or Risk Denial: iRhythm IPR Institution Denial Underscores the Importance of Filing IPR Petitions Sooner Rather Than Later | JD Supra
On June 6, 2025, the Acting Director of the United States Patent and Trademark Office (“USPTO”), Coke Morgan Stewart, issued a decision denying institution of five inter partes review (“IPR”) petitions filed by iRhythm, Inc. against patents held by Welch Allyn, Inc.1 The denials were issued pursuant to the USPTO director’s discretionary authority under 35 U.S.C. § 314(a).
Build Once, Comply Twice: The EU AI Act’s Next Phase is Around the Corner | JD Supra
The European Union has kicked off a new era of AI regulation. With the Artificial Intelligence Act (“the Act”), which went into force on August 1, 2024, the EU has established the world’s first comprehensive legal framework for artificial intelligence. This landmark legislation is already reshaping how AI is developed, deployed, and governed—not just within Europe, but globally.
Column: Don’t Lower Our Educational Standards By Abandoning the County Reading Policy
"Why can’t Johnny read and write?” When I chaired the Moore County Board of Education, I had an answer: It is because too few teachers and administrators make Johnny read and too few make Johnny write. kAm|@@C6 r@F?EJ $49@@=D 8:G6D 2=>@DE 6G6CJ DEF56?E[ 6G6? E9@D6 :? E96 =@H6DE 8C256D[ 2 =2AE@A 4@>AFE6C] %96J 8@E C:5 @7 E6IE3@@<D] x? 724E[ 3FE 7@C E96 “#625:?8 !@=:4J” x HC@E6[ E62496CD C2C6=J C6BF:C65 C625:?8 3@@<D 2E 2==] x?DE625[ DEF56?ED H6C6 8:G6? G6CJ D9@CE A2DD286D E@ C625 @?
Column: Geezer Goes to the Pharmacy And Is Sickened by the System
Yeah, I’m a geezer. That means I am retired, but I do keep myself busy. When I am not chasing little children off my lawn, luckily, I still have time to complain about getting ripped off by the pharmaceutical industry. I especially hate it when the government joins with the industry to make me pay for lobbyists’ country club memberships. I do not care if they pay for those memberships by advocating to sell good pills at an honest price, including something extra for profit. That’s the American way.
Column: Given the Economics, There Are Other Ways to Connect us Than Air Service
I was just a child. My grandmother flew from New York City to Southern Pines on a Piedmont Airlines “tail dragging” DC-3. My father was excited. He didn’t have to negotiate both Apex and Moorpark traveling all the way to Raleigh-Durham to pick her up. Ever since, our politicians and aircraft enthusiasts have felt a need for scheduled commercial air service to Pinehurst. Today, that is not practical or necessary. kAm|@@C6 r@F?EJ p:CA@CE :D 23@FE 2?
Column: History Teaches Us That Today’s History Approximates Prior Events
BY ROBERT LEVY Special to The Pilot kAm(:E9 6G6CJ ?6HD 4J4=6[ 2 3@>3D96== 6IA=@56D @G6C (2D9:?8E@?] %96 %CF>A #6G@=FE:@? :D :? AC@8C6DD] %96 #6D:DE2?46 :D :? A=246] !2?:4 :D D6EE:?8 :?]k^Am kAm*6[ 56DA:E6 E96 A2?:4[ “%96 %CF>A #6G@=FE:@?” :D ?@E9:?8 ?6H] #6G@=FE:@?D 2C6 2? :?E68C2= @7 @FC 4@?DE:EFE:@?2= C6AF3=:4] %96 u@F?5:?8 u2E96CD 56D:8?65 :E E92E H2J] ~FC r@?DE:EFE:@? >2<6D A62467F= C6G@=FE:@? A@DD:3=6] %96C67@C6[ 2D y@9? u] z6??65J @3D6CG65[ G:@=6?E C6G@=FE:@?
Another View: The US needs to rein in presidential pardon power
Imagine the following presidential proclamation: “I do hereby grant unconditional pardons to all United States persons for those offenses against the United States which such persons may have committed to date over their lifetimes.” Who would be covered? Virtually everyone. For which crimes? All crimes. When were they committed? Anytime in the past or maybe never. Would that be constitutional? Probably, many legal authorities say. And yet, the case for unlimited pardons is less than compelling.
Civil Litigation: Understanding The Process From Start To Finish
The prospect of civil litigation is daunting for large corporations and small businesses alike. Understanding the process can help business owners and executives reduce the uncertainty, avoid costly missteps, and play a more active role in reaching a resolution. The term "civil litigation" refers to the legal process to resolve a dispute between two parties that does not involve criminal actions.
COMMENTARY: US needs to rein in presidential pardon power | Jefferson City News-Tribune
COMMENTARY: US needs to rein in presidential pardon power Today at 4:00 a.m. by Robert A. Levy Chicago Tribune (TNS) Imagine the following presidential proclamation: "I do hereby grant unconditional pardons to all United States persons for those offenses against the United States which such persons may have committed to date over their lifetimes." Upcoming Events
The US needs to rein in presidential pardon power
Imagine the following presidential proclamation: “I do hereby grant unconditional pardons to all United States persons for those offenses against the United States which such persons may have committed to date over their lifetimes.” Who would be covered? Virtually everyone. For which crimes? All crimes. When were they committed? Anytime in the past or maybe never. Would that be constitutional? Probably, many legal authorities say. And yet, the case for unlimited pardons is less than compelling.
The US needs to rein in presidential pardon power
Imagine the following presidential proclamation: “I do hereby grant unconditional pardons to all United States persons for those offenses against the United States which such persons may have committed to date over their lifetimes.” Who would be covered? Virtually everyone. For which crimes? All crimes. When were they committed? Anytime in the past or maybe never. Would that be constitutional? Probably, many legal authorities say. And yet, the case for unlimited pardons is less than compelling.
Column: The US needs to rein in presidential pardon power
Column: The US needs to rein in presidential pardon power
US needs to rein in presidential pardon power
Imagine the following presidential proclamation: “I do hereby grant unconditional pardons to all United States persons for those offenses against the United States which such persons may have committed to date over their lifetimes.” Who would be covered? Virtually everyone. For which crimes? All crimes. When were they committed? Anytime in the past or maybe never. Would that be constitutional? Probably, many legal authorities say. And yet, the case for unlimited pardons is less than compelling.
The US needs to rein in presidential pardon power
By Robert A. Levy Imagine the following presidential proclamation: “I do hereby grant unconditional pardons to all United States persons for those offenses against the United States which such persons may have committed to date over their lifetimes.” Who would be covered? Virtually everyone. For which crimes? All crimes. When were they committed? Anytime in the past or maybe never. Would that be constitutional? Probably, many legal authorities say.
The US needs to rein in presidential pardon power
Imagine the following presidential proclamation: "I do hereby grant unconditional pardons to all United States persons for those offenses against the United States which such persons may have committed to date over their lifetimes." Who would be covered? Virtually everyone. For which crimes? All crimes. When were they committed? Anytime in the past or maybe never. Would that be constitutional? Probably, many legal authorities say. And yet, the case for unlimited pardons is less than compelling.
Column: Sometimes, Thoughts and Prayers Don’t Provide the Right Answers
I never wanted to write this column. Voters made their decision. In their collective wisdom, the people decided that I should not return to the Moore County Board of Education. And while I believe that the decision was both ill-informed and just plain wrong, I accepted the verdict. I found a little more time to help my grandchild better understand the social implications of “Blippi” and “Paw Patrol.” kAmp7E6C E96 6=64E:@?[ x H2?E65 E@ 6>F=2E6 v6?] s@F8=2D |24pCE9FC 2?5[ =:<6 2?
Regarding the Efficacy and Constitutionality of the Debt Ceiling
On a fairly regular basis, Americans are warned that the federal government may no longer be able to meet its legal obligations if the debt ceiling isn’t raised. The result: default, with financial chaos to follow. Despite that stark warning, political agreement remains elusive. Liberals will not accept meaningful spending cuts and conservatives will not accept meaningful tax increases.
On the Presidential Power to Impose Tariffs, Appoint, Remove, Impound, and Pardon
The incoming administration seems poised to exercise an array of controversial executive powers. Here are some of the legal considerations. Can the president impose tariffs without congressional approval? Recent laws give the president substantial authority on tariffs to protect industries harmed by global trade, but blanket tariffs on all foreign goods might not withstand challenge.
Dinosaurs return to Squam Lakes exhibit trail this summer
Squam Lakes Natural Science Center in Holderness is known for being a habitat for animals naturally found in the Granite State, but the center will have a handful of pre-historic visitors this summer. “The animals at the Science Center are all native to New Hampshire so these are animals that people may see in their backyards and neighborhoods,” said Communications Director Amanda Gillen.
David Boaz: Libertarian Superstar
For more than 40 years, David Boaz has been Cato’s indispensable man—our jack of all trades and master of all trades. He’s made an enormous contribution to the development, not only of the Institute, but the entire libertarian agenda. As a prominent critic, an authoritative voice on a broad range of policy issues, a widely read author, and a cherished colleague, David has earned our enduring respect, admiration, and gratitude.
Pooka Contemplates the President And Doesn’t Like What He Sees
It was a late weekday night at The Spanish Galleon on Ocean Drive Beach. I had just finished my last “shag” to the Drifters. Deeply influenced by the beverage in front of me, I lost myself in contemplation over the hidden meaning behind Archie Bell’s “I Just Can’t Stop Dancing.” I ordered another drink. It was then that I looked up and there he was! It was my old friend, Harvey! kAm}@H[ D@>6 D2J 96 H2D?’E E96C6] qFE[ :? E@52J’D A@DE\>@56C? H@C=5[ C62=:EJ :D H92E x 36=:6G6 :E E@ 36] q@JD 42?
Disturbios en las universidades: el marco jurídico
El reto para las personas encargadas de controlar los disturbios en las universidades en Estados Unidos consiste en salvaguardar el derecho de los manifestantes a la libertad de expresión, asegurándose al mismo tiempo de que no infringen la igualdad de derechos de los demás.
Campus Unrest: The Legal Framework
The challenge for those persons charged with controlling campus unrest is to safeguard protesters’ right to free speech while ensuring that they don’t infringe on the equal rights of others. The difficulties are twofold: First, to identify and enforce legitimate limitations on protected speech; and second, to properly delineate those other rights that may not be violated. We begin by examining the First Amendment.
Cato at Liberty Cato at Liberty
Competition is an essential ingredient of capitalism. Accordingly, when a corporation appears to have acquired sufficient market dominance to discourage competitors, it’s tempting to ask the government to remedy the problem by enforcing antitrust laws. That temptation should be resisted, except to redress monopoly power that the government itself has created.
This Ancient Manufacturing Technique Is Still in Use Today
Regular Industry Development Updates, Opinions and Talking Points relating to Manufacturing, the Supply Chain and Logistics. This Ancient Manufacturing Technique Is Still in Use Today By Robert Levy (pictured) Manufacturing Business Leader Sheet metal fabrication is a practice that dates back centuries, with early techniques and practices being utilized by ancient civilizations. In those times, simple tools such as hammers and chisels were used to shape metal sheets into desired forms.
This Ancient Manufacturing Technique Is Still in Use Today
Sheet metal fabrication is a practice that dates back centuries, with early techniques and practices being utilized by ancient civilizations. In those times, simple tools such as hammers and chisels were used to shape metal sheets into desired forms. As metalworking skills and tools developed over time, the art of sheet metal fabrication evolved into a more refined practice.
Mouse Auditory Cortex Undergoes Asynchronous Maturation in the Right and Left Hemispheres
Abstract Despite the significance of lateralized auditory processing in human cognition, there are limited studies in animal models exploring the developmental mechanisms of this cortical specialization. Here, we find that cellular and network signs of maturity in the Auditory Cortex (ACx) appear earlier in the right hemisphere in male mice.
What Are Bollards and How Do They Work?
In the realm of urban design and traffic management, bollards or bollard posts stand as guardians, integral in shaping our cities’ safety and aesthetics. These unassuming posts serve a multitude of purposes, from guiding traffic to providing security and delineating pedestrian spaces. But have you ever wondered about the science and art behind the creation of a bollard? What Are Bollards?
Trump’s Disqualification: A Primer
Colorado is attempting to disqualify Donald Trump from running for president by excluding him from the state’s 2024 ballot. That idea was initially advanced in an upcoming law review article by two conservative law professors, and then endorsed in a 4‑to‑3 decision by the Colorado Supreme Court. On December 27, the Colorado Republican Party asked the U.S. Supreme Court to intervene. The Supremes haven’t yet accepted the case; but most legal experts agree that they should and soon will.
ZHONGLI SCIENCE AND TECHN
MEMORANDUM AND ORDER Petitioners Zhongli Science and Technology Group Co. Ltd. and Suzhou Talesun Solar Technology Co., Ltd. (together, "petitioners") brought this matter on September 16, 2022 to compel respondent Fir Tree Partners ("Fir Tree" or "respondent"), an entity located... NEVER MISS A DECISION. START YOUR SUBSCRIPTION. As you are aware we have offered this as a free subscription over the past years and we have now made it a paid service.Look forward to your continued patronage. OR
Powell's Interview: Elizabeth Hand, Author of 'A Haunting on a Hill' by Kelsey Ford
The release of Elizabeth Hand’s newest novel, A Haunting on the Hill, marks the first official sequel to Shirley Jackson’s iconic The Haunting of Hill House, officially authorized by the Shirley Jackson estate. A Haunting on the Hill returns us to that malignant house, alongside a group of writers, actors, and singers who think it will be the perfect place to finesse their production of a very witchy play.
Column: A Plan For Our Public Schools To Thrive in the Years Ahead
Every once in a while, it is a good idea for the chairman of the Moore County Board of Education to communicate with the public on matters crucial to the education of our students. While this chairman and The Pilot have often differed in our approach to education, nonetheless, it is important to communicate to Pilot readers some of the critically important steps the board is taking to assure that education in Moore County Schools is among the best in North Carolina. kAmu:CDE[ H6 5C2H 2EE6?E:@?
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