Author: Mark of New Jersey

In an election dominated by local economic issues, Benjamin Netanyahu won by cannibalizing his own coalition with a last-minute address about the Palestinian issue that may have permanently ended any hopes of a two-state solution.

The most interesting question from today’s oral argument in King v. Burwell is why Justice Kennedy suggested that a strict reading of the ACA in favor of the petitioners – and against the government – would create federalism concerns. Here’s a theory why.

By Mark Thompson

As Burt Likko argued yesterday, the recent spate of high profile religious freedom cases may indeed create an increase in dubious prisoner claims of violation of their religious rights. But it won’t create much of a backlash against protections for religious freedom. Maybe that’s a good thing.

Mark celebrates what remains of rock and roll.

By Mark Thompson The NFL may have a unique problem with off-field violence. That does not necessarily mean that football causes off-field violence. (UPDATED)

Whatever its flaws, the Hobby Lobby decision was not as radical as some would have us believe. By Mark Thompson

Rising inequality in the United States is a real problem, but that doesn’t mean we should find ways to disregard the reduction of global inequality nor that we should treat all increases in inequality in other countries as first order problems.

How can a kitschy pop culture variety contest possibly be more important than the increased threat of the first European war involving a major power in 70 years? Easy – just invite a Bearded Lady. She’ll beat Vladimir Putin’s shirtless, macho efforts to salvage a fading empire every time. [UPDATED]