Patrick Leahy: “today, the Nation celebrates the 226th anniversary of the Constitution's signing. That moment was a decision to create a…”

“today, the Nation celebrates the 226th anniversary of the Constitution's signing. That moment was a decision to create a Federal Government with the power to address national problems. During the Constitutional Convention, the delegates debated hundreds of issues and proposals before crafting the original version of the Constitution. Even then, though, the true genius of their charter was article V, which provided for later amendments--because the Founding generation knew that they did not have all the answers and they had faith in future generations to perfect their charter and ``form a more perfect Union.'' And so, step by step, we have. ``We the People'' have shown a continuing concern for the sacred right to vote. And we have amended the Constitution six times to expand that right. For over 2 centuries, the Constitution has allowed America to flourish and adapt to new challenges. Since the inclusion of the Bill of Rights in 1791, the Constitution has been amended 17 times. Our current version of the Constitution reflects not just the Founders original crafting, but also the need for subsequent amendments. Today is a good day to remind the American people that when we pledge to support the Constitution, we must pledge our support for the whole Constitution, and not just those specific provisions and amendments that we favor or find convenient to uphold.…”