Taking the Constitution Seriously | Sojourners

Taking the Constitution Seriously

Today, the new 112th Congress convenes. Among the new rules for this Congress adopted by the incoming Republican majority is that in this opening session, the U.S. Constitution shall be read aloud. It's a good idea, and let's hope every member pays attention and takes it seriously. Here are a few things enumerated in the Constitution that they could start with.

Article I, section 8 gives Congress the powers:

"To lay and collect Taxes, Duties, Imposts and Excises, to pay the Debts and provide for the common Defence and general Welfare of the United States