The Delaware State Senate unexpectedly voted on Senate Concurrent Resolution (SCR) 100, an application for an Article V convention, on Thursday afternoon. Although the measure failed to garner the requisite votes, the session allowed grassroots members of the Delaware team to testify before the Senate on behalf of the bill.
“When the federal government becomes out of touch with the people, our Founders expected us to use the intervention that they provided us in Article V of the U.S. Constitution,” said grassroots leader Ginny Watkins. “This will be a forum where delegates who are chosen and instructed by their state legislatures will gather … discuss, and debate creative and mutually agreeable solutions to some of the most urgent concerns of the people.”
“The sole purpose of an [Article V convention] is to recommend relevant amendments to our beloved Constitution,” explained Legislative Liaison Ben Cassell, debunking the frequent claim that the convention will rewrite the Constitution. “We trust you,” he told the state lawmakers, “because we are closer to you than Congress.”
“You have nothing to fear and nothing to lose by calling an Article V convention,” he added.
Introduced by Senator Dave G. Lawson, the bill did not previously appear in committee, an uncommon occurrence. Although the application secured more yes votes (6) than noes (5), it ultimately failed due to seven members refusing to vote, another unusual development. An additional three members were absent.
“I remain in favor of [the resolution],” said Senator Eric Buckson. “Why? Because at the end of the day, I just simply believe in ‘We the People.’ I believe in the people being able to come together … to discuss various topics and, then, to move forward.”
Despite the disappointing outcome, Convention of States is proud of the Delaware team for its hard work and dedication to the cause. The Delaware State Senate was clearly impacted by the powerful testimony, and we would encourage our supporters to watch the entire hearing below.
Delaware State Senate VOTES on COS Application in Surprise Hearing
Published in Blog on June 13, 2024 by Jakob Fay
