Skip to main content

John Whitehead's Commentary

Since 1996, John W. Whitehead has taken on everything from human rights abuses in Saudi Arabia, protection of religious freedom, and child pornography, to family autonomy issues, cross burning, the sanctity of human life, and the war on terrorism in his weekly opinion column. A self-proclaimed civil libertarian, Whitehead is considered by many to be a legal, political and cultural watchdog—sounding the call for integrity, accountability and an adherence to the democratic principles on which this country was founded.

Time and again, Whitehead hits the bull's eye with commentaries that are insightful, relevant and provocative. And all too often, he finds himself under fire for his frank and unadulterated viewpoint. But as he frequently remarks, "Anytime people find themselves under fire from both the liberal left and the conservative right, it means that that person is probably right on target."

Mr. Whitehead's commentaries have appeared in the Los Angeles Times, New York Times, Washington Post, Washington Times and USA Today.

John W. Whitehead’s weekly commentaries are available for publication to newspapers and web publications at no charge.

Latest:

January 21, 2026

One year into Trump’s second term, executive power has expanded, accountability has collapsed, and constitutional limits are treated as optional. When elections fail, courts defer, and Congress refuses to act, only one check remains: the People’s Veto. This is how nullification can halt a lawless police state.


Read More of John Whitehead's Commentaries


 

Audio Versions:

 

Copyright 2026 © The Rutherford Institute • Post Office Box 7482 • Charlottesville, VA 22906-7482 (434) 978-3888
The Rutherford Institute is a registered 501(c)(3) organization. All donations are fully deductible as a charitable contribution.