BREAKING the DEADLOCK: A Power Play

Watch a preview for BREAKING the DEADLOCK: A Power Play sparks civil dialogue in polarized times. Guided by UC Davis Law Professor Aaron Tang, a diverse panel explores ethical dilemmas in a fictional tale of executive power—told through two fictional U.S. Presidents from opposing parties. Complex, timely, and thought-provoking.

Watch a preview for BREAKING the DEADLOCK: A Power Play sparks civil dialogue in polarized times. Guided by UC Davis Law Professor Aaron Tang, a diverse panel explores ethical dilemmas in a fictional tale of executive power—told through two fictional U.S. Presidents from opposing parties. Complex, timely, and thought-provoking.

In the hypothetical situation presented in this clip from BREAKING THE DEADLOCK: A Power Play, “Senator” Chris Christie questions the "president’s" authority to defund the “Green Business Bureau” via executive order. Urged to show unity, Christie stands firm on his oath to the Constitution and vows to speak for Middlevania—even if it means holding his own press conference.

"Chief Justice" Duncan warns of threats to judicial integrity as a judge clashes with the "president" over defunding the "Green Business Bureau". "Attorney General" Goldman pushes back, Severino resists, and a former clerk-turned-podcaster calls it unconstitutional. Watch this simulated scenario from BREAKING the DEADLOCK: A Power Play and decide for yourself.

From BREAKING the DEADLOCK: A Power Play, a hypothetical scene unfolds. A potential campaign finance violation sparks tension between the "president" and the "U.S. Attorney General." Questions arise about political motivations, legal thresholds, and the limits of executive power. As roles shift and decisions are made, the balance between justice and loyalty is put to the test.

A car crash leaves “Senator” Goldman injured. The driver is convicted—but some demand a pardon. The “president” weighs political and moral stakes as advisors debate justice, legacy, and the limits of executive power. Is the pardon power a shield against injustice—or a political weapon? Decide for yourself as you watch this hypothetical scene play out from BREAKING THE DEADLOCK: A Power Play.

As rival "presidents" push executive power to new limits, a call emerges for accountability, courage, and constitutional grounding. The real challenge? A weakened Congress, performative politics, and voters who must demand better. With the nation’s 250th anniversary ahead, the question remains: can we still come together to form a more perfect union? BREAKING the DEADLOCK: A Power Play.