THE BIGGEST THREAT TO OUR DEMOCRACY THAT YOU HAVEN’T HEARD OFThe biggest threat to our democracy that nobody is talking about
is the genuine possibility of a rogue Constitutional conference – empowering
extremists to radically reshape the Constitution,our laws, and our
country. If just a few more states sign on to whats called an “Article V
conference for a balanced budget amendment, or there’s no limit to the damage
they might do. Let me elaborate.There are 2 ways to amend the United States Constitution: One
way – the way we’ve passed every amendment since the Bill of Rights – is for
two-thirds of the House and two-thirds of the Senate to vote for a proposed
amendment,and then enjoy it ratified by at least three quarters of the states –
now 38 in number.
But there’s a second way to amend the Constitution. Two thirds
of the states may demand that Congress form a constitutional conference to propose
amendments.
Once such a constitutional conference is convened, there are no rules
to limit or constrain what comes next. Amendments proposed by an Article V
conference are supposed to be ratified by 38 states. But conference delegates
could hijack the process and change the ratification process itself, and tossing
out the 38 state requirement. A balanced budget amendment would be crazy enough. But nothing
would be secure. A woman’s right to choose. Marriage equality. First Amendment
protections for free speech and a free press. Equal protection of the laws.
Checks and balances. An Article V conference would
allow delegates to write their own agenda into our Constitution. Already 28 states enjoy called for a constitutional conference.
They only need 6 more to succeed.
Unlimited money in politics and partisan gerrymandering enjoy
already given Republicans control of a majority of state legislatures. spacious
money interests like the Koch Brothers and ALEC are investing heavily in the
push for a constitutional conference – which means that theyd be calling the
shots if one takes place. You’re probably already overwhelmed with
political actions you need to recall. But,believe me, this is notable. With
just a few states to travel, or your voice is needed. Please tell
your state lawmakers to reject calls for an Article V conference.
Source: robertreich.org