Fast Forward 03/12/2026

Bill —

For generations, Americans have relied on a simple principle to protect our democracy: no branch of government should hold too much power.

But in recent years, that balance has been shifting.

This week we’re highlighting an important new piece from members of Forward’s Veterans and Military Families Committee: “The Two‑Party Drift Toward Executive Power.”

The article looks at how presidents from both parties have increasingly used military force without meaningful congressional oversight – a trend that raises serious questions about the erosion of constitutional checks and balances.

Click the image to read the blog post

The U.S. Constitution gives Congress the authority to declare war, reflecting the founders’ belief that decisions about military force should involve democratic accountability.

But over time, presidents from both parties have increasingly acted without formal congressional approval. The Forward blog argues that the erosion of oversight has made it easier for the executive branch to wield military power with limited restraint.

This isn’t just about one president or one party.

It reflects a broader pattern in American politics where the two‑party system has allowed power to consolidate in the executive branch while Congress struggles to assert its role.

When those checks weaken, so does public confidence in the system. When institutions work properly, power is balanced and decisions carry broader legitimacy.

When those guardrails erode, it becomes easier for any administration — Republican or Democrat — to expand executive authority without sufficient accountability.

One of the core ideas behind the Forward movement is that political incentives shape political outcomes. If the system rewards partisan loyalty and discourages independent oversight, we should not be surprised when institutions weaken. That is why Forward supports reforms that strengthen democratic accountability and encourage leaders who are willing to work across differences.

Healthy competition in politics leads to stronger institutions. Stronger institutions help preserve the constitutional balance that protects our freedoms.

Please forward this to your friends, family, and coworkers. It helps us introduce them to Forward and to what we are building. Also consider inviting them to one of our upcoming events listed below. We’d love to meet them.

We hope you enjoy! Don’t forget to let us know what you think.

Click the image below to watch.

ICYMI: The Forward Party Podcast – Behind the Scenes reel

RECAP: Forward Voices: ICE and the Rule of Law

At a recent Forward Voices event, speakers discussed the importance of upholding the rule of law and protecting constitutional rights in federal law enforcement, with a focus on ICE practices and due process protections. The conversation reflected Forward’s core values of respecting the Constitution and strengthening democratic accountability. Speakers highlighted the need for clearer oversight, accountability, and thoughtful immigration reform that puts people and constitutional principles first. Click here to watch a recording of the event.

Tonight – Gulf Coast Regional Call

Join other Forward supporters in the states of Mississippi, Alabama, and Louisiana on a Gulf Coast Regional Call. Hear national party updates and brainstorm ways to spread the Forward message in your area. Click here for more information and to RSVP.

March 16 – NY Monthly Virtual Townhall

Each month, NY Forwardists across the state meet on Google Meets to hear from a partner organization or potental endorsed candidate or to discuss a relevant topic.

March 25 – Virginia Statewide Virtual Meeting

Politicians should not choose their voters.

Yet Virginia is facing a renewed redistricting effort that risks undoing the will of voters who approved reform in 2020.

The Forward Party in Virginia is hosting a statewide virtual meeting to discuss what this means and what we can do about it. Click here for more information and to RSVP.

If you’re tired of waiting for the system to fix itself — this is your moment.
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Forward Veterans and Military Families Chair Sarah Czech on News Nation 

Forward Veterans and Military Families Chair Sarah Czech discusses how the public deserves answers and transparency around the conflict with Iran.

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