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To: DoodleDawg
WIJG? - Since this is a subject of interest to me as well, allow me to ask a related question or two.
DD - How about answering the original question first?
Since it is not explicitly forbidden by the Constitution, can the states expel one state from the Union against its will?

Although your question is more than just a little vague, under certain conditions, the answer is quite obviously 'yes'. (In fact, you may be able to find an analogous example or two in American history! ;^)

Your turn, my friend:

1) Was the federal government delegated any authority over the departure of a member State from the federal union? (Feel free to cite any constitutional clause that supports your answer, if you can.)

2) If no such authority was clearly delegated to the federal government, would it not remain with each of the States - in other words, would not the people of each State retain authority over its own departure? (Again, please feel free to cite any constitutional clause that supports your conclusion. ;^)

202 posted on 12/28/2019 1:19:14 PM PST by Who is John Galt? ("He therefore who may resist, must be allowed to strike.")
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To: Who is John Galt?
1) Was the federal government delegated any authority over the departure of a member State from the federal union? (Feel free to cite any constitutional clause that supports your answer, if you can.)

Sure. Consent of Congress is required for a state to join the Union to begin with. Once allowed in, consent of Congress is required for a state to split or combine with another state or alter their border in any fashion. Implied in that is the need for Congressional approval to leave. And I should point out that is not only my position but the belief of James Madison, Salmon Chase, Thomas Jefferson, and many others. Roger Taney didn't think states could leave at all.

2) If no such authority was clearly delegated to the federal government, would it not remain with each of the States - in other words, would not the people of each State retain authority over its own departure?

Only if you discount entirely the existence of implied powers. As I said, Congressional approval is needed for a state to join or changes in status once allowed it so recognizing that the need for Congressional approval is implied is no great stretch.

203 posted on 12/28/2019 1:44:34 PM PST by DoodleDawg
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