What is an amendment?

An amendment is defined as a formal change to the Constitution, which means that it alters or adds to the original text of the Constitution itself. This process is significant because the Constitution serves as the foundational legal framework of the United States, outlining the structure of government, the rights of citizens, and the principles upon which the nation is built.

To amend the Constitution, a rigorous process is prescribed that typically involves substantial agreement at both the federal and state levels. This ensures that changes to such a vital document reflect a broad consensus rather than temporary political whims. The ability to amend the Constitution allows for the legal system to adapt over time while maintaining the core principles that underpin the nation's governance.

In contrast, other options represent different forms of legal or political authority but do not fit the definition of an amendment. A law passed by Congress refers to statutory legislation, a presidential decree is an executive order issued by the President, and a Supreme Court ruling is a judicial interpretation of laws or the Constitution. Each of these serves different purposes within the government structure and does not involve the formal constitutional amendment process.