Constitutional Changes Face Debates, Ballots, Votes

Constitutional reform is prompting debate over how foundational documents should adapt while preserving democratic safeguards. At an Ohio State Lima event, constitutional scholar Jason Opal said the U.S. Constitution’s durability reflects the framers’ restraint, awareness of the country’s decentralized nature and foresight in allowing amendments. One opinion writer argues for a U.S. constitutional convention and amendments addressing taxes on the wealthy and healthcare, while a North Dakota commentary cautions that changes to a state constitution should not be made casually or by a narrow majority. In Fiji, People’s Alliance Party General Secretary Sila Balawa is urging lawmakers to advance an amendment bill, saying its passage would lead to a referendum while failure could bring an election. A separate ballot commentary supports four proposed constitutional amendments, citing changes to gubernatorial veto procedures, school-board election timing and university regent selection, while also urging voters to approve a library bond.