Which of the following is NOT a method for amending the Constitution?

• A. Approval by a two-thirds vote in Congress
• B. Approval by a convention called by two-thirds of the state legislatures
• C. Referendum by popular vote
• D. Proposal by two-thirds of state legislatures

Answer: (C)

The method that is not a way to amend the Constitution is a referendum by popular vote. The U.S. Constitution outlines specific processes for amendments that do not include direct approval by the electorate through a popular vote. Instead, the amendment process relies on actions taken by Congress or state legislatures.

The Constitution provides two primary pathways for amending it: one is through a two-thirds vote in both the House of Representatives and the Senate, and the other is through a convention called by two-thirds of the state legislatures. Furthermore, amendments can also be proposed by two-thirds of the state legislatures, illustrating that involvement from state governments is integral to the process. A referendum, however, would imply a direct vote by the people, which is not a stipulated method for constitutional amendments in the U.S. This distinction highlights the framers' intent to balance state and federal powers without direct public intervention in this fundamental legal framework.