Alan’s TTIM Stories #29

The United States Constitution, effective on March 4, 1789, is a flawed masterpiece. Compromises filled the document with intentions “to form a more perfect Union.” Factions fought for a strong central government vs. the authority of each state, the agrarian South and the merchant-minded North, and the subject of Slavery. The compromising glue that held together thirteen diverse colonies is worn and falling apart under 235 years of government and social evolution.

Corrections have taken place in the form of 27 Amendments, many dealing with the freedom and rights of the individual. The Federal government has the obligation to provide for the welfare of the citizens, non-citizen residents, and visitors including security, health, inter-state transportation, energy, natural resources, and communications. Vigilance is required to address the dilemma of security vs. individual freedoms.

The United States is listed #36 in the world for democracy listed as a “Deficient Democracy.” This is not a source of pride. Let’s declare our desire to be a democracy in a pure form. Here’s a few suggestions:

Let’s start with rights. A New Constitution will assure Equal Rights for everyone within the law (voting rights, reproductive rights, housing rights, religious rights including the freedom from religion, gender equality, etc.).

It’s time for the Executive Branch of government reflect the will of the people. The President and the Vice President of the United States are chosen every four years by popular vote. The outdated and undemocratic Electoral College deserves elimination.   

The new structure of the Supreme Court consists of a 25-year term limit. Potential court members are  nominated by the President and confirmed by the Senate. Vacancies must be filled within six weeks of the official vacancy. If the Senate cannot confirm within the six weeks, the presidential appointee is sworn in to 25-year term limit.

Senators serve a six-year term with positions proportioned by population with a total of 100.
One senator for low population states (Wyoming, North Dakota, Vermont, U.S. territories, etc.)
Two senators for middle population states (Massachusetts, Ohio, Michigan, etc.)
Three senators for high population states (California, Texas, Florida, New York, etc.)

The United States consist of the 50 states and various territories. The majority of the District of Columbia will become Potomac County of Maryland. The Federal Government will retain authority over federal buildings and military instillations within the current District.

The combined territories (Puerto Rico, Virgin Islands, Samoa, Northern Mariana Islands, Guam, Midway, Wake Island) will be represented by one senator and one member of the House of Representatives.

Congressional redistricting within a state is designated by a non-partisan state committee.

The current Second Amendment is confusing (only regulated militia have gun rights?) and misinterpreted to the detriment of our citizens and our worldwide reputation as lawless, dangerous place. The Federal government must have the authority to regulate gun/firearms/explosives design and sales, maintaining the right for law abiding citizens to own a gun/rifle for sport, hunting, and/or protection. No citizen should have the right to private ownership of military weaponry.

Filibuster is a prolonged speech to delay legislative action and not require a 60-vote approval – majority rules. Three-fifths of a legislature body can end a filibuster.

The Federal government will be funded by a 2% sales tax on every purchase with no exceptions including citizens, corporations, organizations, even government purchases. Federal Income Tax and non-profit status are abolished.

It’s time to take “a more perfect Union” seriously through transformative legislation. A revolution freed us from an overseas monarchy. We must break the oppressive bonds of the power-hungry few. A legislative revolution can right wrongs and create an America for the people.

Sources:
Democracy Matrix
Wikipedia

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Sandhills – A Novel and
Key Largo Summer are found at
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