The MAGA movement is frequently linked to conspiracy theories that lack realistic feasibility. It’s crucial to understand that many of its followers are not fully informed about how improbable their theories truly are. By seeking “credible” information and engaging in open, intelligent dialogue, we can foster a more informed perspective and encourage critical thinking.
MAGA, take heed.
If you’ve come across MAGA theories suggesting that President Joe Biden plans not to relinquish power, it’s important to approach them with skepticism. Remember, these are the same individuals who mistakenly believed that former President Donald Trump could overturn a legitimate election four years ago. It’s crucial to rely on facts and evidence rather than unfounded claims and nonsense.
Answer: President Biden’s term is set to conclude on January 20, 2025, at precisely 12 noon ET. This timeline is firmly established and holds no exceptions. Even in extraordinary circumstances, such as a hypothetical nuclear strike occurring just before Trump is scheduled to take the Oath of Office, the constitutional framework remains steadfast in its scheduling. That stated, there could be a few circumstances where a nuclear strike could delay a president’s taking the Oath of Office. However, it would have to be something on that level to force a delay.
In the critical weeks before President Biden’s inauguration, there was a significant push from Donald Trump’s supporters for him to take extreme actions to challenge the election results. They proposed measures such as declaring a national emergency, invoking the Insurrection Act, imposing martial law, and even “temporarily suspending the Constitution.” These discussions were not just idle chatter; they made their way into the White House. Influential figures close to President Trump appeared convinced that merely invoking “emergency powers” could enable him to extend his presidency indefinitely.
… Of course, none of those scenarios would have worked.
It’s important to recognize that while emergency powers grant the president significant discretion during a crisis, none of these powers permit the overturning of an election. This assurance is crucial in maintaining the integrity and stability of our democratic processes.
Can’t Biden just declare martial law?
Answer: No. At least not without strict oversight and restrictions.
Martial law lacks a precise definition, but it generally involves the military assuming control over civilian government during emergencies. Historically, state officials have declared martial law on numerous occasions, and Congress has previously authorized its use. However, at present, the president does not possess the authority to declare martial law independently. Such an action would be restricted by various laws enacted by Congress to regulate domestic military activities. Among these is the Posse Comitatus Act, which specifically prohibits using federal troops for law enforcement purposes without explicit congressional approval.
Back to a nuclear strike scenario… In my opinion, if a nuclear strike were to occur against the U.S. on January 19, it would “probably” be imperative to address the situation before the president-elect is sworn in the next day. Imagine firing a football head coach during a critical game where the game is tied with two minutes left to play. That probably wouldn’t be a good idea. Handling such an urgent crisis requires continuity that only those currently in command can provide effectively at that critical moment.
But didn’t Abraham Lincoln suspend habeas corpus during the Civil War? And didn’t Franklin D. Roosevelt enact martial law in Hawaii during World War II?
Absolutely. In both instances, there were genuine emergencies at play during major wars. However, it’s important to note that parts of these declarations were subsequently deemed unconstitutional. Given today’s legal standards and interpretations, even those declarations would not hold up in the present.
In modern times, the use of martial law is highly scrutinized and often met with significant resistance from Congress, the courts, and the public. The system of checks and balances in the U.S. government is designed to prevent any single branch from having unchecked power, including the president’s ability to declare martial law.
In conclusion, while the president has the authority to declare martial law under certain circumstances, this power is not absolute and is subject to significant limitations and oversight from other branches of government.