What is the mechanism by which the Constitution can be altered?

What is the mechanism by which the Constitution can be altered?

• A. Legislative proposal
• B. Direct election
• C. Amendment process
• D. Executive order

Answer: (C)

The Constitution can be altered through a defined process known as the amendment process, which is outlined in Article V of the Constitution itself. This process typically involves two main steps: the proposal and the ratification of the amendment. An amendment can be proposed either by a two-thirds majority vote in both the House of Representatives and the Senate or by a national convention called for by two-thirds of state legislatures. Following this, for an amendment to become part of the Constitution, it must be ratified by three-fourths of the state legislatures or by conventions in three-fourths of the states. This method allows for a balance between federal and state powers and provides a structured way to make changes to the foundational legal document of the United States. In contrast to the amendment process, options like direct election or executive order do not pertain to the constitutional alteration mechanism. Direct election refers to the electoral process for officials and does not change the Constitution itself. An executive order is a directive issued by the President and holds authority within the bounds of existing law but cannot create new constitutional amendments. Legislative proposals can be a part of the amendment process but do not encompass the full mechanism of alteration on their own.

The Constitution can be altered through a defined process known as the amendment process, which is outlined in Article V of the Constitution itself. This process typically involves two main steps: the proposal and the ratification of the amendment.

An amendment can be proposed either by a two-thirds majority vote in both the House of Representatives and the Senate or by a national convention called for by two-thirds of state legislatures. Following this, for an amendment to become part of the Constitution, it must be ratified by three-fourths of the state legislatures or by conventions in three-fourths of the states. This method allows for a balance between federal and state powers and provides a structured way to make changes to the foundational legal document of the United States.

In contrast to the amendment process, options like direct election or executive order do not pertain to the constitutional alteration mechanism. Direct election refers to the electoral process for officials and does not change the Constitution itself. An executive order is a directive issued by the President and holds authority within the bounds of existing law but cannot create new constitutional amendments. Legislative proposals can be a part of the amendment process but do not encompass the full mechanism of alteration on their own.