Question

Read this passage from the U.S. constitution:

The Congress, whenever two thirds of both Houses shall deem it necessary, shall propose Amendments to this Constitution...which... shall be valid to all Intents and Purposes, as Part of this Constitution, when ratified by the Legislatures of three fourths of the several States, or by Conventions in three fourths thereof, as the one or the other Mode of Ratification may be proposed by the Congress.3

Based on the passage, which statement is true?

A. The Constitution cannot be changed, but Congress and the states can call for a new constitution to be written.

B. The process of changing the Constitution requires broad support from both Congress and the states.

C. The Constitution can be changed through a process that requires a simply majority vote in Congress.

D. Changing the Constitution is a difficult process that only the president can carry out

Answer 1

Correct answer:

B. The process of changing the Constitution requires broad support from both Congress and the states.

Further explanation:

Changing the Constitution of the United States is an intentionally difficult process in which an amendment must be proposed and approved by 2/3 of Congress or 2/3 of the state legislatures before being ratified by 3/4 of the States. Normal bills passed by Congress become law with the signature of the President. Amendments to the Constitution, however, require a more stringent process, as described in the passage quoted from the Constitution.

Answer 2

The correct answer is B. The process of changing the Constitution requires broad support from both Congress and the states.

Indeed, the passage clearly states that a supermajority of two thirds of both Houses of Congress is required for the proposal of any constitutional amendment. Also, a super majority of three fourths of the states’ Congresses or Assemblies is required for the ratification of such amendment.