Academic debates over the U.S. Constitution have intensified, with Harvard Law Professor Michael Klarman labeling the system as ‘broken’ and the current political climate as ‘authoritarian’ rooted in ‘old-fashioned white supremacy.’ Klarman, who argued for a ‘constitutional crisis,’ condemned President Trump and his supporters as ‘fascists’ and accused ICE agents of running ‘concentration camps’ where immigrants are ‘essentially tortured.’ When challenged about his stance, Klarman admitted his fury, insisting that the country’s constitutional system is failing and that his goal was to ‘shake people out of their insomnia.’ This perspective is part of a broader movement among scholars to question the viability of the Constitution, reflecting a growing belief that the document is no longer serving its purpose and needs to be discarded.
Contrast this with the enthusiasm of Grand Lake, Colorado, where residents celebrated the Constitution during its annual commemoration. Nestled in the Rocky Mountains, Grand Lake’s event drew a diverse crowd, including visitors from Wyoming, who showed their support for the Constitution through parades, flag displays, and local traditions. The event emphasized a deep-rooted faith in the document, with children dressed in Revolutionary-era costumes and families cheering as the parade passed. This contrast illustrates a significant divide between academic criticism and public endorsement of the American constitutional system.
Despite the skepticism from some scholars, who view the Constitution as ‘trash’ or a tool of oppression, the United States continues to be a nation bound by a shared legacy of ideas. The Constitution, as the Framers intended, remains a covenant of a people with each other, a symbol of resilience that has endured wars, economic crises, and social unrest for over two centuries. While some in academia argue for a complete overhaul, the continued support from everyday citizens, like the boys in Grand Lake who proudly displayed their pocket Constitutions, reflects a broader, enduring national belief in the document’s significance.
These contrasting views highlight a deeper philosophical debate within American society. On one side are scholars and political elites who see the Constitution as outdated or insufficiently responsive to current challenges, demanding a more radical approach to governance. On the other side are many Americans who view the Constitution as the foundation of their nation, a guiding framework that has allowed the country to navigate complex historical transitions while maintaining a stable and democratic system. This divide is not merely academic; it reflects real tensions between those who believe in gradual reform and those who advocate for comprehensive change.
The recent events in Grand Lake underscore the importance of civic engagement and the role of local communities in preserving democratic values. As the town’s celebration demonstrated, the Constitution is not just a legal text but a living document that inspires collective identity and pride. Such events serve as reminders of the Constitution’s role in uniting people across diverse backgrounds under a common set of principles. In an age where political polarization and ideological divides threaten to fragment the nation, these moments of collective unity become all the more significant.
Furthermore, the debate over the Constitution’s relevance raises important questions about the role of education in shaping public opinion. As scholars continue to question the document’s effectiveness, there is a growing need for a more balanced and nuanced understanding of its history and impact. The events in Grand Lake suggest that a vibrant civic culture can serve as a counterbalance to the ideological fervor often seen in academic and political circles. Ultimately, the future of the American constitutional system will depend on the dialogue between these competing perspectives and the ability of citizens to engage with its legacy in a meaningful and critical way.