Writer confused about Preamble
I wish the editors would respond to some of the more specious arguments put forward by other letter writers.
A letter (Dec. 30) contends that the words in the Preamble of the Constitution empower Congress and the executive to enact and enforce laws on subjects not specifically enumerated in the Constitution. The Preamble does not confer any powers on the federal government.
It is only an introduction that explains why the Constitution is being ordained and established, and what the people of the United States intend to achieve by it.
Legislative powers are conferred in Article I, executive powers in Article II, and judicial powers in Article III. The idea that Congress and the executive can enact and enforce laws on subjects that are not specifically enumerated in the Constitution can only lead to tyranny.