Recent events – revelations of warrantless wiretapping of U.S. citizens, legislation that provides for diminished judicial and legislative oversight, and increasing use of Presidential Signing Statements – have caused citizens of all political stripes to question whether we are witnessing the emergence of an Executive Branch more powerful than was envisioned by the framers of our Constitution.

Join our panelists as they briefly describe the concept and mechanics of Checks and Balances in our Constitution. Following their brief opening comments about the status of that design in today's political climate, join the dialog about where we are and where events are leading us.

Our panel includes:

Hugh J. McGavick, an attorney whose practice includes civil rights and First Amendment issues.

Kevin Wimsett, a Civics and History educator at Black Hills High School and former Pierce County Council member.

Gery Gerst, a US history and Political Science educator at Olympia High School and The Evergreen State College.

Learn more about the American Civil Liberties Union campaign to “Stop the Abuse of Power” at www.aclu.org.