[tacticalogic]

And in order to limit Congress, that activity can't be anything at all -- it must be such that it substantially interferes with Congress' ability.

Is that what "substantial effects" means? Anything that "substantially affects" Congress' ability to do whatever it wants? That seems to be the gist of your argument.

[robertpaulsen]

"Anything that "substantially affects" Congress' ability to do whatever it wants?"

No. Read my lips. Congress has the power to legislate anything that "substantially affects" their ability to regulate interstate commerce, provided that the legislation is both necessary and proper.