On September 17, 1787, an event took place that ranks in importance with the signing of the declaration of independence.  The constitution of the United States was ratified.

I regret that this was not written a week ago on the actual day, but the knowledge of this day causes me to reflect on the significance of the constitution particularly in today’s heated political climate.

How well do we as Americans know the Constitution?  If you stop to think about it, this document impacts us on a daily basis as citizens from the freedom of speech to the right against illegal search and seizure to the right to vote.  At politivote, we advocate becoming politically active and participating in this democracy.  If we are ever to reach that goal, a thorough knowledge of this great document is imperative.  How can we participate in a government if we as a citizenry are ignorant of the rules by which it operates?

If the average citizen should be familiar with the constitution, how much more important is it for our elected officials to know the constitution?  I remember watching Obama’s ascent into the office of president, and hearing about intelligence briefs he was already receiving.  There is doubtless much the in coming president needs to know about current national affairs in order to govern effectively.  Each in coming president ought to make it a high priority to know each and every article and amendment of the constitution.  Sense the president has probably held prior political office, they should already have this knowledge as a senator or governor or any other post of leadership in this country.  If we as a citizenry take the time to become familiar with and moreover, appreciate this document, we will be better able to participate in our government and our leaders will be able to govern more effectively.