Joshua Kastenberg
Professor, UNM School of Law
Thursday, September 17th, 2026, 4:00 p.m.
Botts Hall, Albuquerque Special Collections Library
423 Central NE, Albuquerque, NM (Central & Edith)
Although the United States has been moving toward the “unitary executive” style of government since the beginning of the Cold War, this process has accelerated during the “Global War on Terrorism.” Today, however, we have entered a new phase of governance in which a president commits military forces against a sovereign foreign nation without the acquiescence of Congress or the acceptance of the people. The Constitution clearly states that Congress has the authority to declare war. Since World War II, there has not been a conflict in which this has occurred, though Congress has given its blessing through the appropriation of monies or the approval of conscription. Now, however, the administration has launched the US into conflicts with Venezuela and Iran, though neither had threatened the US with any immediate force. This talk will explore whether the current actions violate the Constitution — and what that may mean for our basic freedoms at home.
Professor Joshua Kastenberg earned degrees from UCLA and Georgetown and has served in the U.S. Air Force. He has been Professor at the UNM School of Law since 2016 and before this time served for 20 years as a lawyer and judge in the Air Force, as well as a prosecuting attorney in criminal trials.
Preregistration is required.
$15 for AIA Members; $20 for Non-Members; Students under 30 with ID – Free.
Pay online or mail check made out to AIA by September 15th to: AIA, PO Box 92921, Albuquerque, NM 87199.
Reception with Professor Josh Kastenberg
You’re invited to a special reception following Josh Kastenberg’s lecture
The Albuquerque International Association invites you to join us for a special opportunity to meet Professor Josh Kastenberg, Professor at the University of New Mexico School of Law, at a reception immediately following his 4 pm lecture on Thursday, September 17. The reception will be held at an AIA member home and drinks and hors d’oeuvres by the Artichoke Cafe will be served. The number of attendees is limited to 30.
This will be a great opportunity to meet Professor Kastenberg and continue the broad discussion about the constitutional issues connected with the War in Iran.
If you’re interested in attending, we ask that you sign up here by Wednesday, September 16.
Cost is $30. We will send you the address for the reception once we receive your registration.