The Powell Perspective™

06/22/2025

Publius

How the Constitution Constrains Presidential Overreach Against the States

This article examines constitutional mechanisms to limit presidential overreach against state powers, highlighting the separation of powers and anti-commandeering doctrine as foundational safeguards. It argues that these principles provide stronger legal grounds than existing frameworks for challenging federal encroachment on state authority. Full article - https://statecourtreport.org/our-work/analysis-opinion/how-constitution-constrains-presidential-overreach-against-states

Sharing the Facts About Federal Overreach of States’ Authority to Administer Elections

This analysis details an executive order attempting to federalize election administration by imposing mandates on states, violating constitutional provisions reserving election oversight to state governments. It exposes coercion tactics like threatening unrelated funding cuts to enforce compliance, illustrating systemic overreach in regulatory enforcement. Full article - https://statesunited.org/resources/facts-about-elections/

The RE Doctor

Making Affordable Housing a Reality in Cities

This World Economic Forum report outlines data-driven strategies to address urban housing shortages, emphasizing mixed-income development and transit-oriented design. It explores innovative solutions like algorithmic zoning, land value taxation, and public-private financing models to improve housing affordability while ensuring proximity to jobs and services. The framework highlights inclusionary policies that integrate diverse housing types within communities, aiming to balance supply-demand gaps through coordinated regulatory and funding approaches.
https://www3.weforum.org/docs/WEF_Making_Affordable_Housing_A_Reality_In_Cities_report.pdf

JPMorgan Chase's analysis forecasts robust growth in industrial real estate driven by e-commerce demands, alongside steady performance in multifamily and retail sectors. The report identifies emerging opportunities in affordable housing partnerships and climate-resilient development, while noting persistent challenges like interest rate volatility and cybersecurity risks. It advocates for strategic public-private collaborations to leverage tax incentives and zoning innovations for sustainable portfolio expansion in evolving markets.
https://www.jpmorgan.com/insights/real-estate/commercial-real-estate/commercial-real-estate-trends

Skier Tom

State of the Snowsports Instruction Union and Teaching for Transfer

This article from the winter 2015 issue of NW Snowsports Instructor magazine reviews the state of the snowsports instruction industry, including fall training for divisional leaders and updates to the National Standards and Alpine Technical Manual. It sets the tone for the 2014-2015 season and emphasizes teaching for transfer. Full article - https://www.psia-nw.org/wp-content/uploads/NWSI-Winter-2015-web.pdf

PSIA Junior Instructor Program at Maple Ski Ridge

This article details a program for youth aged 12-14 to become junior ski instructors, developing skills like public speaking and professionalism. Participants complete online courses, on-snow training, shadowing, and a ski ability assessment, with a guaranteed instructor position at Maple Ski Ridge the following season. Full article - https://www.mapleskiridge.com/psia-junior-instructor-ski-program

Founder's Paradox

Delaware SB 21 & Easier Corporate Governance for Startup Founders

This article examines Delaware's Senate Bill 21 (SB21), signed into law in March 2025, which simplifies corporate governance requirements for startup founders. The amendments reduce bureaucratic hurdles in establishing governance structures, allowing founders to prioritize compliance without excessive administrative burdens. By streamlining processes like board formation and documentation, the bill aims to help startups maintain flexibility while meeting legal obligations. Full article - https://www.dbllawyers.com/delaware-sb-21-and-easier-corporate-governance-for-startup-founders/

The Perils of Founder Worship

This analysis critiques the cultural tendency to idolize startup founders, linking it to governance failures like the FTX collapse. It argues that unchecked founder control increases litigation risk and undermines accountability, advocating for early adoption of ethics codes, rigorous VC due diligence, and traditional board structures. The piece emphasizes treating regulatory compliance as a competitive advantage, especially in high-risk sectors. Full article - https://clsbluesky.law.columbia.edu/2025/05/20/the-perils-of-founder-worship/

Secrets of Capital Raising

Startup Financial Model in 2025: Real Goal and Use Cases

This article explores the multifaceted role of a startup financial model beyond fundraising, highlighting its use as a strategic tool for internal decision-making, team alignment, and operational management. It details essential components, common pitfalls, and best practices for creating a high-impact financial model. Full article - https://www.finrofca.com/news/financial-model-goals-2025

Private equity 2025: Market shifts and investor priorities

This article examines the evolving private equity landscape in 2025, characterized by market uncertainty and strategic opportunities. It outlines key investment themes such as direct lending and co-investments, and emphasizes limited partners' focus on returns and the importance of strong management teams in general partner selection. Full article - https://www.ocorian.com/knowledge-hub/insights/private-equity-2025-market-shifts-and-investor-priorities