In Santa Barbara, California, the Center for the Study of Democratic Institutions has drafted a better U.S. Constitution. The current one is outdated.
*Robert M. Hutchins, chairman.
*Harry S. Ashmore, senior Fellow of the center.
*Warren Burger (opposed to trial by jury).
This new version:
*20 or less "republics" instead of 50 states.
*a stronger Presidency & federal powers, instead of individual sovereign states.
*6 branches instead of 3.
- the regulatory branch would share its authority with private industry, could join multi-company groups to set standards.
*No more Supreme Court, weaker judicial powers.
*President serves 1 nine year term only.
*Senators
- not elected but chosen by other branches of government. They would consist of former Presidents & other former high officials.
*2 Vice Presidents instead of 1.
- 1 for general affairs.
- 1 for internal affairs.
*No more Bill of Rights, but many of the same fundamental safeguards.
- no right to a trial by jury.
- no right to bear arms.
*Instead of 2/3 vote of Congress to amend the Constitution, amendments would be proposed by a council of judges approved by the President & Senate, and ratified by a majority in a national election.
*After 5 presidential terms, the entire Constitution may be rewritten and submitted & ratified by a majority in a national election.