Rising Calls for a Constitutional Convention- How Many States Are on Board-

How Many States Want a Constitutional Convention?

The question of how many states want a constitutional convention has been a topic of debate and speculation in recent years. With the rise of political polarization and the perceived need for systemic change, many have called for a convention to amend the United States Constitution. This article aims to explore the current state of affairs and provide an overview of the number of states that have passed resolutions in favor of such a convention.

The U.S. Constitution allows for amendments to be proposed either by two-thirds of both houses of Congress or by a convention called for by two-thirds of the state legislatures. The latter method, known as a convention of states, has gained traction among those who believe that the current political climate necessitates a more direct approach to constitutional reform. To date, a significant number of states have passed resolutions supporting a convention, but the exact number can vary depending on the criteria used to define “support.”

One of the most widely cited figures is 13 states, which is the number needed to call for a convention under Article V of the Constitution. This figure represents the number of states that have passed resolutions in favor of a convention and have also submitted those resolutions to the United States Congress. However, it is important to note that this number is not static, as more states continue to pass resolutions in favor of a convention.

In addition to the 13 states that have submitted their resolutions to Congress, there are several other states that have passed resolutions supporting a convention but have not yet submitted them. Some states have passed resolutions that specifically call for a convention to address specific issues, such as term limits for Congress members or campaign finance reform. Other states have passed resolutions that are more general in nature, supporting the idea of a convention to address the nation’s problems.

The push for a constitutional convention is not without its critics. Some argue that the process is too open-ended and could lead to unintended consequences, while others worry that it could be used as a vehicle for fringe groups to push their agendas. Despite these concerns, the number of states that have passed resolutions in favor of a convention continues to grow, indicating a significant level of support for the idea.

In conclusion, the question of how many states want a constitutional convention is complex and subject to change. With 13 states having submitted their resolutions to Congress and many more supporting the idea, it is clear that there is a significant movement towards a convention. As the debate continues, it remains to be seen whether the United States will see a convention called to address the nation’s most pressing issues.