Constitution Breakdown #8: Jill Lepore

The podcast examines Article V of the U.S. Constitution, which outlines the amendment process, and explores the history and challenges of amending the Constitution with historian Jill Lepore. Lepore argues that the Constitution was designed to be amended, but formal amendments through Article V have become functionally impossible due to political polarization and the rise of originalism. The discussion covers different types of constitutional amendments, including formal Article V amendments, informal amendments, and de facto amendments through judicial decisions. Lepore highlights the framers' intent to provide a peaceful means of changing fundamental laws to avoid violent revolutions. The podcast also touches on failed amendment attempts and the role of the Supreme Court in interpreting the Constitution.