How does a particular state’s constitution reflect the values and beliefs of its citizens?

Question

A state’s constitution tends to reflect the political culture of the state. How does a particular state’s constitution reflect the values and beliefs of its citizens?

I've never thought of this, but it's a question we have to think about over the weekend for my poli sci class.

Answer 1

In many cases the state constitution may not affect citizens much. Although in theory we elect representatives that enforce and shape these laws into the proper culture of a particular state, it's not always so cut and dry.

For example, here in Texas our gov. (Rick Perry) is conservative--and Texas being conservative this should work well right. Well not in his case. He angers many conservatives by executing executive orders for choices HE thinks are right. Recently he issued an executive order stating that all young girls should recieve an HPV vacine. But this type of govt. interference is against conservative values, as they want less govt. telling them how to run their lives, and it definetely goes against the spirit of Texas in the sense that Texas is thought of as a rebel state, every man for himself, making his/ her own choices.

So, to sum up, a state constitution is only as powerful as the people who are elected. There are no laws that state that who we elect have to go along with the culture of the state. They can interpret the constitution with their own biases and values, which may go agaisnt the grain of the majority of people in the state.

Answer 2

You elect your state legislators. They vote on state laws. Those laws may never violate Federal LAW!

If you do not like a state law, you write to your state representative/Governor. If he/she/they will not listen, you vote them out!

Another reason why all citizens should keep up with what our representatives are doing!