The Only King is the Constitution

This letter to the editor, by John Krizek appeared in the Hudson Star Observer on May 1, 2025.

Our Founding Fathers, shaped by their experience under the British monarchy, intentionally built the U.S. Constitution to prevent the rise of a king-like figure. They designed a system that limits presidential power through structure, accountability, and balance.

Unlike a monarch who rules for life, the president serves a four-year term and must face re-election, ensuring accountability to the people. Further distancing the presidency from monarchy, presidents aren’t chosen by a direct national vote but by the Electoral College, a mechanism intended to balance the influence of populous and less populous states.

The Constitution establishes three separate branches of government: legislative (Congress), executive (presidency), and judicial (Supreme Court). This division, paired with a system of checks and balances, ensures no single branch dominates. Today, this balance of power is under strain.

Congress holds the power to impeach and remove a president for “treason, bribery, or other high crimes and misdemeanors.” It must also approve treaties negotiated by the president. These powers are designed to keep the executive in check.

The judiciary can review laws and executive actions to ensure they align with the Constitution. Currently, it stands as the strongest protector of constitutional rights amid executive overreach.

Presidential powers are explicitly listed in the Constitution. Any powers not granted are reserved for Congress, the judiciary, or the states, reinforcing the principle of limited executive authority.

Every president swears an oath to “preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the United States.” This oath reflects their duty to uphold the law — not rule as a monarch.

Though Donald Trump pledged to uphold the Constitution, he is consolidating power through executive orders, while Congress fails to assert its authority. The very safeguards meant to prevent tyranny are now being tested.

In crafting the Constitution, the Founders rejected monarchy and created a republic built on shared power and responsibility. The only true king in America is the Constitution itself.