In this episode, host Dr. Katie Crawford-Lackey explores James Madison's constitutional philosophy with professors Eric Kasper and Howard Schweber, co-authors of "James Madison's Constitution: A Double Security and a Parchment Barrier." The conversation unpacks two key Madisonian concepts: "double security" (the idea that both federalism and separation of powers work together to prevent tyranny) and "parchment barriers" (Madison's concern that written rules alone aren't enough to constrain power).

As college campuses continue to serve as vital sites of activism, protest, and public debate, university police face the complex task of upholding First Amendment freedoms while ensuring the safety and wellbeing of diverse campus communities. In this episode, Dr. Katie Crawford Lackey sits down with Chief Timothy Longo, Associate Vice President for Safety and Security at the University of Virginia, to explore the delicate intersection of constitutional rights and campus safety. With over 40 years in law enforcement, Chief Longo shares insights on how university police navigate the delicate balance between protecting First Amendment freedoms and ensuring campus security. The conversation covers the unique challenges of policing diverse academic communities, the importance of constitutional training for officers, and practical approaches to managing expressive conduct while maintaining public safety. Chief Longo emphasizes the critical role of empathy, collaboration, and deep constitutional understanding in modern law enforcement.

In this compelling episode of Consider the Constitution, host Dr. Katie Crawford-Lackey explores one of the most contentious intersections of constitutional law and public policy with Professor Hank Chambers from the University of Richmond Law School. Together, they unpack the complex doctrine of qualified immunity and its relationship to police discretion—topics that have become central to national debates about policing, accountability, and civil rights.

Professor Chambers breaks down what qualified immunity actually means, explaining how it allows law enforcement officers to avoid liability in certain situations, even when constitutional violations may have occurred.

Professor Chambers offers a nuanced perspective on why some view qualified immunity as necessary protection for officers doing difficult work, while others see it as a barrier to accountability.