The Powell Perspective™

07/01/2025

Publius

How the Constitution Constrains Presidential Overreach Against the States

This article examines constitutional mechanisms limiting presidential overreach against state authority, emphasizing separation of powers and anti-commandeering doctrines. It argues that the Constitution provides robust frameworks—such as judicial review and state sovereignty principles—to challenge federal executive actions that encroach on states' rights. The analysis highlights ongoing legal battles where state governments invoke these constitutional safeguards to resist perceived federal overextension.
https://statecourtreport.org/our-work/analysis-opinion/how-constitution-constrains-presidential-overreach-against-states

Have the Trump Administration's Actions Put the US into a Constitutional Crisis?

This piece analyzes whether recent executive actions constitute a constitutional crisis, citing violations like defunding programs without congressional approval and restricting birthright citizenship. It details over 180 lawsuits challenging such measures on constitutional grounds and explores how courts, states, and civic engagement serve as critical defenses against governmental overreach. The article stresses the judiciary's role in upholding rule-of-law principles amid conflicts over constitutional interpretation.
https://www.theusconstitution.org/news/have-the-trump-administrations-actions-put-the-us-into-a-constitutional-crisis/

The RE Doctor

Accessory Dwelling Units in Maryland Housing Policy

This article details Maryland's approach to addressing its 96,000-unit housing deficit through Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), emphasizing policy reforms to streamline development. The state's task force recommends removing restrictive lot requirements and promoting ADUs as affordable housing solutions to diversify residential options. Full article - https://planning.maryland.gov/Documents/Our-Engagement/ADUPTF/2024-ADU-PTF-report.pdf

2025 Commercial Real Estate Outlook

JPMorgan Chase highlights a positive shift in commercial real estate for 2025, citing industrial sector strength and retail resilience despite interest rate uncertainty. The analysis identifies opportunities in affordable housing partnerships and tech-driven innovations to navigate climate risks and market volatility. Full article - https://www.jpmorgan.com/insights/real-estate/commercial-real-estate/commercial-real-estate-trends

Skier Tom

PSIA Alpine Level II Study Guide

This comprehensive study guide outlines the American Teaching System for ski instructors preparing for Level 2 certification. It details step-by-step procedures for conducting ski lessons, covering teaching methodologies, technical skiing maneuvers, and foundational knowledge for effective instruction. The guide serves as a core resource aligned with PSIA’s Alpine Manual and certification standards. Full article - https://www.psia-nw.org/wp-content/uploads/PSIA_Alpine_Level2_SG.pdf

PSIA Junior Instructor Program at Maple Ski Ridge

This program trains skiers aged 12–14 for future instructor roles, combining online PSIA-AASI coursework with on-snow training. Participants complete modules on teaching fundamentals, beginner lessons, and child instruction, followed by 12 hours of practical training and lesson shadowing. Graduates receive national recognition as Junior Instructors and guaranteed employment at Maple Ski Ridge if age-eligible, fostering career skills like leadership and communication. Full article - https://www.mapleskiridge.com/psia-junior-instructor-ski-program

Founder's Paradox

The Perils of Founder Worship

This article examines the risks of elevating startup founders to "mythical status," using FTX's collapse as a case study. It argues that excessive founder control without governance oversight creates existential risks, recommending early adoption of ethics codes, stringent VC due diligence, traditional board structures, and regulatory compliance in high-risk sectors. The piece contends that mission-driven startups must prioritize legal accountability over disruption. Full article

Dynamic Views of Startup Governance and Failure

This analysis explores how governance structures in startups evolve throughout their life cycle. It discusses how founder isolation, high-stakes leadership decisions, and inadequate governance adaptations contribute to failure, contrasting with successful exits. The article emphasizes that effective governance requires dynamic adjustments to board composition, decision-making processes, and risk management as startups scale. Full article

Secrets of Capital Raising

Global Private Markets Report 2025

This comprehensive report by McKinsey analyzes key trends shaping private markets in 2025, including evolving capital raising strategies, sector-specific investment approaches, and emerging exit pathways. It examines how geopolitical shifts and technological advancements are transforming private equity deal structures, fundraising environments, and portfolio management techniques across global markets. Full article - https://www.mckinsey.com/industries/private-capital/our-insights/global-private-markets-report

100 Surprising Financial Modeling Facts & Statistics [2025]

This data-driven analysis reveals how financial modeling is rapidly evolving, with 75% of institutions now using AI for predictive analytics and 93% of executives relying on models for strategic funding decisions. The article details the shift from Excel to Python/R for capital structuring scenarios, real-time investor relations dashboards, and machine-learning-powered fundraising tactics. Full article - https://digitaldefynd.com/IQ/financial-modeling-statistics/