AUM welcomes UA political science expert for Constitution Day
In observance of Constitution Day, AUM’s Department of Political Science and Public Administration will host its annual celebration of the U.S. Constitution on Thursday, Sept. 18.
Dr. Allen Linken, associate professor of political science at the University of Alabama, will deliver the 2025 Constitution Day lecture, titled “Constitutional Crisis and Democracy.” The event, which is free and open to the public, will be held from 12:15 to 1:15 p.m. in Taylor Center 223. Light refreshments will be provided.
“Lately, much has been written about the current state of our democracy,” said Dr. Pia Knigge, assistant professor of political science at AUM and event organizer. “This debate includes the question of whether we are heading into — or are already experiencing — a constitutional crisis.”
Dr. Linken’s lecture will explore how the U.S. Constitution balances presidential power with the rule of law during times of national emergency. By analyzing the sources of presidential authority and reviewing key legal cases, including recent rulings on executive discretion, the lecture will examine when the courts defer to presidential power and when they assert their counter-majoritarian role to uphold constitutional principles. Drawing on insights from the Federalist Papers, Linken will highlight the enduring tension between a vigorous executive and the constitutional safeguards that protect democracy in times of crisis.
Dr. Linken’s teaching and research focus on American politics, particularly constitutional law, understanding the Supreme Court, the role of law in society, and the civil-military gap. He holds both a master’s degree and doctorate from the University of Massachusetts Amherst, as well as a J.D. from Albany Law School.
Constitution Day 2025 will be officially observed on Wednesday, Sept. 17, in commemoration of the formation and signing of the U.S. Constitution on Sept. 17, 1787. The day also recognizes all individuals who are U.S. citizens — either by birth or through naturalization.
