The Powell Perspective™

06/11/2025

Publius

Constitutional Constraints on Presidential Overreach

This article examines how the Constitution’s separation of powers and anti-commandeering doctrine limit presidential overreach against states. It analyzes legal frameworks for challenging federal encroachment on state authority, emphasizing recent debates over executive actions and their alignment with constitutional principles. Full article - https://statecourtreport.org/our-work/analysis-opinion/how-constitution-constrains-presidential-overreach-against-states

Federal Overreach in Election Administration

This piece critiques a 2025 executive order attempting to federalize election administration, arguing it violates states’ constitutional authority over election processes. It highlights legal conflicts between presidential directives and the Elections Clause, emphasizing threats to state autonomy and nonpartisan election oversight. Full article - https://statesunited.org/resources/facts-about-elections/

The RE Doctor

Mixed-Use Development Strategies in Affordable Housing

This article explores the challenges and benefits of integrating affordable housing into mixed-use projects, highlighting how such developments can streamline zoning approvals and enhance community support. It cites examples like Westwood Station in Massachusetts, where combining residential, retail, and office spaces with affordable units helped secure political and public backing. Full article - https://www.housingfinance.com/management-operations/mastering-mixed-use_o

The article outlines key commercial real estate opportunities for 2025, emphasizing industrial sector growth, affordable housing demand, and hybrid workspace innovations. It also discusses strategies for balancing risk through diversified investment approaches like core, value-add, and opportunistic portfolios. Full article - https://www.jpmorgan.com/insights/real-estate/commercial-real-estate/commercial-real-estate-trends

Skier Tom

PSIA Junior Instructor Program: Shaping Future Ski Educators

This article highlights Maple Ski Ridge’s PSIA Junior Instructor Program, designed for youths aged 12–14 to develop skiing and teaching skills. Participants complete online modules, on-snow training, and shadowing experiences, gaining national recognition and guaranteed instructor roles. The program emphasizes leadership, community impact, and professional development in mountain sports. Full article - https://www.mapleskiridge.com/psia-junior-instructor-ski-program

Mountain Bike Instructor Training Expands with GSMBC Courses

This article explores GSMBC-certified mountain bike instructor training led by Josh Whitmore in 2025, spanning locations like Bentonville and Santa Cruz. Courses cover intermediate-to-advanced coaching techniques, blending outdoor leadership with technical skills. The program aims to elevate instructor standards in mountain sports, fostering safer and more effective teaching practices. Full article - https://www.mtbskillsfactory.com/instructor-training

Founder's Paradox

The Perils of Founder Worship in Startup Governance

This article examines how excessive deference to visionary founders can undermine corporate governance in high-growth startups. It analyzes governance failures in mission-driven companies and proposes safeguards like early ethics codes, robust VC due diligence, and regulatory compliance integration while maintaining innovation capacity. The analysis draws lessons from high-profile cases to create risk mitigation frameworks for investors and boards. Full article - https://clsbluesky.law.columbia.edu/2025/05/20/the-perils-of-founder-worship/

Balancing Flexibility and Accountability in Startup Governance

This piece explores adaptive governance strategies for startups at different growth stages, advocating for phased implementation of board structures and digital governance tools. It addresses founder isolation risks through targeted transparency practices and presents a decision matrix for aligning leadership psychology with organizational risk profiles. The article emphasizes technology-enabled governance solutions that preserve entrepreneurial speed while reducing litigation exposure. Full article - https://www.directors-institute.com/post/governance-challenges-in-startups-optimal-timing-and-strategies-for-formal-structures

Secrets of Capital Raising

Global Private Markets Report 2025

This article examines the resurgence of private equity in 2025, highlighting stabilized dealmaking, sector specialization in technology and healthcare, and evolving exit strategies like IPOs and secondary buyouts. It also addresses challenges in real estate and infrastructure investments amid shifting economic conditions. Full article - mckinsey.com/industries/private-capital/our-insights/global-private-markets-report

This piece explores how private equity firms are optimizing exits through IPOs, secondary buyouts, and strategic sales while navigating regulatory scrutiny. It emphasizes the rise of sector-focused funds targeting technology, healthcare, and clean energy to attract investors seeking diversification in volatile markets. Full article - dfinsolutions.com/knowledge-hub/thought-leadership/knowledge-resources/private-equity-trends