From: jimruttshow8596
The ongoing debate about the United States Constitution is a significant aspect of contemporary American political discourse, especially in light of discussions around a “National Divorce” or potential intentional splits within the nation [01:59:09]. While the concept of a “National Divorce” generally implies a splitting apart of the country, the underlying constitutional debate often focuses on the preservation and interpretation of the existing framework [02:00:00].
The Constitution’s Role and Perceived State
The Constitution is viewed by some as “the last best hope for individual liberties in the world” [02:49:09]. Its strength is seen as greater when more people are bound by it [02:57:51].
However, there is a belief among some proponents of a “National Divorce” that the Constitution and the American experiment itself are “failed experiment[s]” [03:40:02]. Others suggest that the U.S. has not effectively adhered to its constitutional principles since at least 1933, if not earlier [03:14:00], with some even pointing to the passage of the 13th, 14th, and 15th amendments as a departure from original intent [03:37:04].
Diverging Interpretations and Proposed Changes
In the event of a “National Divorce” leading to multiple new polities, it is anticipated that new constitutions would emerge, or existing ones would “start to evolve in different directions” [03:52:00].
Left-leaning Constitutional Views
The political left is described as being “very interested in changing the Constitution” [02:52:27], with some expressing dislike for divided powers and even advocating to “abolish the Supreme Court” following decisions like the 9-0 ruling regarding ballot access in Colorado [02:53:00]. This perspective suggests a desire for constitutional reform to better align with current political goals.
Right-leaning Constitutional Views
The political right is also proposing amendments, such as “parental rights amendments” [02:54:00], recognizing that these rights are not explicitly enshrined outside of the 14th Amendment and judicial interpretation [02:54:00]. Should a “Red State” entity form, its evolving constitution would likely “move back more in that direction” [03:28:00] of limited government and strict interpretation, disallowing elastic interpretations of clauses like the Interstate Commerce Clause [03:34:00].
Calls for Constitutional Engagement and Revival
Given the ongoing political polarization, there is a call for Americans to become more familiar with the founding documents, including the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and the Bill of Rights [03:59:00]. This emphasizes a perceived “massive educational problem” regarding the nation’s founding [04:01:00], attributed in part to “critical history” and “anti-American nonsense” in schooling [04:17:00].
Instead of a “National Divorce,” there’s an advocacy for people in all states, especially “purple and blue States,” to “take the fight to their state” [04:41:00]. This involves:
- Fighting for local control: Inspiring a “civic revival” where people actively work to prevent their communities from deteriorating [04:26:00].
- Promoting constitutional literacy: Working to bring states “back to a more constitutionally centered” approach [04:06:00].
- Engaging in legal and political action: Encouraging Attorneys General to pursue actions like antitrust lawsuits against corporate collusion [04:59:00] or supporting referendums on issues like gender-affirming care [04:36:00]. This also includes fighting against initiatives like ESG requirements and “natural asset companies” [04:38:00].
The belief is that the Constitution “frankly works when you have people who understand it and are willing to stand up for it” [04:41:00]. This proactive engagement, likened to a “50 stars project,” aims to avoid running out of “space left to run” and instead encourages people to “turn and stand on the soil” of their home [04:16:00].