Restoring Liberty

The Case for a Convention of States Under Article V

The recent Supreme Court decision in Trump v. Barbara has stirred a fierce debate about the limits of federal power and the meaning of American citizenship. On June 30, the Court ruled 6-3 that children born on U.S. soil to parents who are in the country illegally or on tourist visas are citizens at birth. This ruling struck down President Trump's executive order and redefined citizenship in a way many see as judicial overreach. With Congress unwilling to act and the Court unlikely to restrain itself, the question arises: how can Americans reclaim control over their government and protect their liberties? The answer lies in a powerful but underused tool built into the Constitution itself—Article V.

For decades, the federal government has expanded its reach beyond the boundaries set by the Constitution. This expansion often comes through judicial decisions that reinterpret laws and constitutional provisions in ways that shift power from the states to the federal government. The Supreme Court’s recent ruling is a clear example of this trend. By redefining citizenship, the Court has effectively altered a fundamental aspect of American identity without input from the people or their elected representatives.

Congress has shown little appetite for challenging such decisions. Political gridlock and partisan divisions make it difficult for lawmakers to take bold action. Meanwhile, the Court continues to make rulings beyond its proper role. This leaves citizens with few options to push back against an erosion of constitutional limits.

Article V of the U.S. Constitution provides a clear path for citizens to propose amendments when the federal government oversteps its authority. Unlike the usual process of Congress proposing amendments, Article V allows states to call a convention to propose changes directly. This mechanism was designed by the Framers as a safeguard against federal overreach and to restore the balance of power.

A Convention of States under Article V can propose amendments limited to:

• Imposing fiscal restraints on the federal government

• Establishing term limits on Congress and federal officials

• Limiting the power, scope, and jurisdiction of the federal government

  
  

These changes would help restore the original intent of the Constitution and protect individual liberties from unchecked federal authority.

The Supreme Court’s decision in Trump v. Barbara highlights the urgent need for constitutional reform. The ruling challenges the original meaning of the 14th Amendment and expands citizenship rights in a way that Congress should decide, not the judiciary. A Convention of States offers a way to clarify and restore the original intent of the 14th Amendment, ensuring that citizenship laws reflect the will of the people.

Moreover, fiscal restraints are critical to addressing the growing national debt and unchecked government spending. Term limits would reduce career politicians’ influence and encourage fresh ideas and accountability. Limiting federal power would return authority to the states, where local governments can better address the needs of their communities.

How does a Convention of States Work?The process begins when two-thirds of state legislatures (currently 34 states) apply for a convention to propose amendments. The convention then meets to draft amendments on the agreed-upon topics. Any proposed amendments must be ratified by three-fourths of the states (38 states) to become part of the Constitution.

This process is transparent and controlled by the states, not Congress or the federal government. It empowers citizens and their representatives to take back control and ensure the Constitution reflects their values.

Twenty states have already passed resolutions calling for a Convention of States focused on fiscal responsibility, term limits, and limiting federal power. For example:

• Texas passed a resolution in 2017 calling for a Convention of States to impose fiscal restraints and term limits.

• Florida and Georgia have also joined efforts to push for amendments that restore state authority and limit federal overreach.

  
  

These state-led initiatives demonstrate growing support for using Article V as a tool to protect liberty and restore constitutional balance.

Citizens concerned about federal overreach and the erosion of liberty can support efforts to call a Convention of States. This includes:

• Contacting state legislators to express support for Article V applications

• Educating others about the benefits and safeguards of a Convention of States

• Participating in local and state advocacy groups focused on constitutional reform

  
  

By engaging in this process, Americans can reclaim their voice and protect the freedoms guaranteed by the Constitution.

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The Supreme Court’s recent ruling underscores the urgent need to restore constitutional limits on federal power. With Congress unable or unwilling to act, the Convention of States under Article V offers a clear, practical path for citizens to propose amendments that impose fiscal restraints, establish term limits, and limit federal authority. This process empowers states and the people to protect liberty and ensure the Constitution reflects their values. The time to act is now. Support your state’s efforts to call a Convention of States and help restore the balance of power envisioned by the Framers.

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