Who can propose an amendment to the Constitution?

• A. Only the President
• B. Only the Supreme Court
• C. Either Congress or a constitutional convention called by two-thirds of the states
• D. Only state legislatures

Answer: (C)

An amendment to the U.S. Constitution can be proposed either by Congress or through a constitutional convention called by two-thirds of the state legislatures. This process is outlined in Article V of the Constitution, which establishes two methods for proposing amendments. The first method is a proposal by a two-thirds vote in both the House of Representatives and the Senate, reflecting the role of Congress in constitutional changes. The second method allows for the calling of a constitutional convention if two-thirds of the states submit applications to convene such a meeting. This dual approach ensures that both Congress and the states have a significant role in the amendment process, thereby upholding the principles of federalism and balancing state and national interests.

The incorrect options revolve around limitations on who can initiate the amendment process. The President and the Supreme Court do not have the authority to propose amendments, as their roles are more focused on the execution and interpretation of laws rather than their creation. State legislatures, while important in the process, cannot propose amendments on their own without the involvement of either Congress or a constitutional convention.