Constitution Breakdown #1: Nikole Hannah-Jones

In this episode of 99% Invisible, Roman Mars and Elizabeth Jo delve into the U.S. Constitution, beginning with an analysis of the Preamble. They are joined by journalist Nikole Hannah-Jones, creator of the 1619 Project, to discuss the historical context and interpretations of "We the People," particularly concerning the exclusion of Black Americans during the Constitution's drafting. The conversation explores the Preamble's legal significance, its use in landmark cases like Dred Scott and Jacobson v. Massachusetts, and the ongoing debate about its intended scope and inclusivity. In the second half of the podcast, Elizabeth explains the Posse Comitatus Act and its exceptions, focusing on the recent deployment of federal troops to Los Angeles in response to protests against ICE raids, examining the legal justifications and implications of this action under the Trump administration.