Supreme Court Justice Neil Gorsuch has sounded the alarm about the excesses of the ‘Administrative State’ in his new book, ‘Over Ruled: The Human Toll of Too Much Law,’ co-authored with Janie Nitze. Through a series of real-life stories, Gorsuch and Nitze expose how government agencies often crush citizens caught in their path, from Amish families trying to maintain their way of life to a race car driver facing absurd prosecution. While these agencies can be ordered to stop violating the Constitution or exceeding their authority, Gorsuch emphasizes the lack of accountability for individual bureaucrats who abuse their power.
Gorsuch argues that the Supreme Court and lower federal courts should play a more active role in curbing this overreach, suggesting a revival of the ‘non-delegation’ doctrine and stricter punishments for agencies that abuse their authority. He acknowledges that a comprehensive solution must come from Congress and state legislatures but believes the courts have a responsibility to act with urgency to protect citizens from bureaucratic excesses.
The book highlights the burden placed on individuals who face years of litigation and significant damage even when they ultimately win their case. Gorsuch emphasizes the need for greater accountability and a more responsive system to address the issues created by the ‘Administrative State.’ The ‘Administrative State’ is not a hidden entity, its presence is evident in the vast web of regulations and laws, but Gorsuch calls for a more robust system to address the abuses that occur within its ranks. He believes the president and governors should have the authority to dismiss officials who violate citizens’ rights and that courts must move swiftly to rescue individuals from bureaucratic overreach.
