1. Recently there was a debate over DOMA in this country. Discuss the relevant ethical and constitutional arguments on both sides of the debate on this issue. On the basis of your ethical discussion which side would you argue should have prevailed? On the basis of your constitutional discussion which side would you argue should have prevailed? Which side did prevail? How do you account for that outcome? Be sure to consider federalism in this discussion, as well as civil liberties.
2. Discuss the Affordable Care Act (Obamacare). What effect did its enactment have on federal state relations, in your opinion? Was its enactment consistent or, inconsistent, with constitutional provisions for federalism? How do you imagine it came about? Was the way that it came about constitutional or, unconstitutional, in your opinion? Which side would you argue is on firmer ground constitutionally, opponents or, proponents, of Obamacare? Explain.