advantages of the amendment process

• • Hard to change: Protects small states and the Founders' principles.
  • Prevents populist groups from easily changing the Constitution
• Populism

  • The amendment process prevents easy changes that could harm civil liberties, like ending birthright citizenship.
• States' Rights

  • Small states are protected by the amendment process, maintaining their power against larger states. for example Every state has 2 senators and an equal say in ratifying amendments, protecting small states from being overpowered by larger ones.
• The amendment process preserves the principles of the Founding Fathers, like regular elections and separation of powers.
• Flexibility and Adaptability – The amendment process allows the Constitution to evolve to meet new societal needs.

  • Example: The 26th Amendment (1971) lowered the voting age from 21 to 18 in response to the Vietnam War, where young men were being drafted but couldn’t vote.
• Democratic Process – Since amendments require broad approval from both Congress and states, they reflect the will of the people.

  • Example: The 19th Amendment (1920), granting women the right to vote, was passed after years of activism and growing public support for women’s suffrage
• Protection of Rights – Many amendments have been passed to expand and protect individual rights.

  • Example: The 13th Amendment (1865) abolished slavery, ensuring freedom for millions of African Americans after the Civil War.