‘The strengths of the US Constitution now outweigh its weaknesses ‘The strengths of the US Constitution now outweigh its weaknesses.’ Discuss June 2013

Strengths Producing a stable system over 200 years Stops a concentration of power (power spread throughout federal government). A degree of ‘gridlock’ ensures that ill-thought out policy cannot be rushed through Balance the need for effective central government and protection of state rights Vagueness in some terms has allowed evolution to meet current political needs Ability to amend The constitution has been amended to reflect changes in values, e.g the Senate is now elected by popular vote. But made difficult so cannot be changed by short term waves of sentiment.

Weaknesses Separation of powers and ‘Checks and balances’, have hindered effective government. The frequent occurrence of ‘gridlock’ It is too vague. Many principles have been subverted (acquisition of power by the federal government at the expense of the states, and the president over congress). The amendment process is too demanding, preventing much needed amendments from being made (for example, the survival of the arguably archaic elements – 2nd Amendment). Allowing an unelected judiciary excessive power – imperial judiciary.

Other weaknesses Too adaptive – can amend. The introduction and repeal of prohibition show the dangers. the archaic mechanism of the Electoral College can mean that winner of the popular vote is denied the presidency House elections are too frequent, meaning that representatives are constantly campaigning lack of term limits in Congress creates an unrepresentative elite