Near a base of the Carson Range of the beautiful yet unforgiving Sierra Mountains in Carson City, Nevada, sits the state capitol building. It has a gleaming silver dome, emblematic of the state's most significant natural resource, which led to the silver rush, economic growth and development, and, ultimately, statehood in 1864.
Seen at a distance along the hiking paths and amid the lovely juniper tress, sage, and rocks that are millions of years old and comprise the landscape Carson's Prison Hill Recreation Area, the capitol is clearly visible yet absolutely miniscule in comparison to the majesty of the Sierras and the natural world -- a stark and perfect example of government in its proper perspective.
Of course, not all within the walls of the silver-domed capitol approach legislation and regulation with the same attitude or reverence for symbolic and practical limited government. Nevada is certainly not immune from government overreach.
Yet hiking along the trail in the hot desert sun of mid-July and contemplating the relative insignificance of the seat of government when set against the Carson Range reinforces the fundamental principle of the founders of this republic that is, if not as ancient as the rocks, just as solid, which is that the government that governs least governs best.
It also serves as a reminder that the journey of calling an Article V convention is not unlike a long, arduous hike or a climb up the mountain range that dwarfs the capitol building. For those in government to best serve the people that they purport to represent, the people must remain vigilant and committed.
The grassroots of Convention of States Action have been climbing the mountain for years.
There have been significant ascents to the top in the form of nineteen state legislatures adopting our resolution. There have been inspiring climbs in states such as Massachusetts and Hawai'i, where our resolution has passed out of committee in nonpartisan fashion. We are nearly at the summit in North Carolina, which can become the next state to pass during the legislature's current session.
As is normal in any challenging climb, there have been setbacks. Some legislators who have given their support have backed out at the last minute when on the precipice. Others are swayed by myths and outright lies about the convention process or the aims of our effort, and seemingly unmoved by clear, verifiable refutations of those falsehoods.
But the climb continues because of the dedication and work of you, the grassroots. You understand the proper size and role of government as viewed symbolically from the hiking trails of Carson City and as applied practically in the halls of state capitol buildings from coast to coast.
Amid the chaos that American politics has become, particularly these last few weeks, it is imperative that we stay on the path and reach the top. Your continued commitment will lead us there, and we thank you for all that you have done, are doing, and will do.
To help put the federal government in its appropriate place, join our effort to call an Article V convention by signing the petition below, and give of your time and talent to rein in the federal government.
