We were pleased to hear from Rabbi Meir Soloveichik as he discussed Jewish influences on the American founding. When the United States was founded, there were very few Jews in America; nevertheless, George Washington had a remarkable series of written interactions with them. A careful study of this story reveals the way in which Washington himself saw America, what Jewish hopes were for this new nation, and what this tale can teach us about the future of faith in America.

Watch Dr. Paul Carrese's full remarks from his September 19, 2024 lecture.

Winners from the Constitution Day Essay contest were announced and had the opportunity to read their submissions with commentary by Wheatley constitutional fellow Bradley Rebeiro. The essay contest and the event are also co-sponsored by the BYU Law School and College of Family, Home, and Social Sciences.

In his recent Deseret News op-ed, Wheatley Institute Fellow Jeremy Pope explores what truly sets America apart—not its power, but its founding principles. He argues that the nation's exceptionalism lies in the revolutionary ideals of liberty, equality, and self-government articulated between 1765 and 1800. At a time when political rhetoric can obscure these foundations, his piece is a timely reminder of the enduring value of America’s constitutional commitments.

Wheatley Constitutional Government Initiative Director James C. Philips contributed an article to the Federalist Society about a recent Supreme Court case regarding the tax-exempt status of Catholic charities in Wisconsin.

In his latest opinion piece for The Washington Post, Wheatley Fellow and former U.S. Senator Jeff Flake reflects on the importance of congressional leadership in shaping American foreign policy. He underscores the need for principled engagement on the global stage and calls on lawmakers to uphold the values that have long guided U.S. diplomacy.