1.4 interpretations and debates around the US consitituion

• vaugeness

  • The Constitution is vague, allowing interpretation to address modern needs.
  • The "necessary and proper" clause lets the federal government pass laws like healthcare and welfare.
  • Some lawmakers and judges prefer the original text, which could limit rights for groups not represented in the original Constitution (e.g., women, LGBTQ+ people).
• Suffrage

  • The amendments to the constitution such as the 19th increased the number of people eligible to vote.
  • This has made the US more democratic, and the results of elections are more representative of the wishes of the population.
• jduical review

  • The Supreme Court plays a key role in maintaining checks and balances on the executive and legislature.
  • Nominations are politicized, so justices may make political decisions.
  • Example: President Trump aimed to appoint justices who opposed Roe v. Wade, which legalized abortion.