The new Republican House has already decided that it’s first stunt is to read the Constitution out loud. The Republicans want to convince us that they are the one, true party of the Constitution. I agree with Greg Sargent’s take – that we should use this as an opportunity to talk about the Constitution instead of just rolling our eyes. David Waldman has a different suggestion, however.
Maybe John Lewis would like to read Art. I, Sec. 2, cl. 3?
Representatives and direct taxes shall be apportioned among the several states which may be included within this union, according to their respective numbers, which shall be determined by adding to the whole number of free persons, including those bound to service for a term of years, and excluding Indians not taxed, three fifths of all other Persons.
Or Sec. 9?
The migration or importation of such persons as any of the states now existing shall think proper to admit, shall not be prohibited by the Congress prior to the year one thousand eight hundred and eight, but a tax or duty may be imposed on such importation, not exceeding ten dollars for each person.
Just to make a point, perhaps?
That seems like a pretty good way to remind everyone that the Constitution isn’t like a book of the Bible, it’s a document that is aspirational but also flawed. We have come to our understanding of democracy through many years of mistakes, missteps and struggles.