Initiatives v Oligarchy

Our Founders' Warning: “Every government degenerates when trusted to the rulers of the people alone. The people themselves are its only safe depositories.” (Thomas Jefferson)

24 States

In 16 States, Initiatives can make direct State constitutional amendments [which could contain a proposed US Constitutional Amendment]: Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Florida, Illinois, Michigan, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, and South Dakota.

In 8 more States, Initiatives can make Initiative proposals for US Constitutional Amendments: Alaska, Idaho, Maine, Massachusetts, Mississippi, Utah, Washington, and Wyoming – bringing the total to 24.

In a further 3 States, Initiative processes are available but less forceful.

(I&RI at USC)