This issue is deeply personal to me because I believe in the importance of our country's leaders having a thorough understanding of the principles that underpin our democracy - our history, our government's functionality, operations, and the separation and limitations of power. I propose that Congress introduce and adopt a Constitutional Amendment that necessitates anyone running for a federally elected role (the House, the Senate, the Presidency), or anyone appointed to an office by the President, to pass the same Citizenship/Civics test taken by those seeking to become citizens of this nation.

This requirement will also apply to current office holders at the time this Amendment is passed. Failure to pass the test would mean an immediate loss of office. Notably, as of  2018, only 36% of Americans can actually pass the Citizenship Test, demonstrating a lack of understanding about how our government operates (Source: National Survey Finds Just 1 in 3 Americans Would Pass Citizenship Test - Institute for Citizens & Scholars).

This discrepancy is particularly alarming when we think of the decisions being made every day by our elected officials, decisions that affect us all.  Our current President, Donald Trump and his closest allies demonstrate on a daily basis a fundamental lack of understanding of American Democracy.  This Amendment is vital to ensure our representation truly knows our nation's fabric, principles, and functioning. Therefore, I call upon you to join and support this crucial cause. Sign this petition today. Let's ensure our leaders possess the same foundational knowledge required of our newly sworn-in citizens.