What is the supreme law of the land?

The supreme law of the land is the Constitution. This foundational document establishes the framework for the U.S. government, defines the powers of its branches, and outlines the rights of citizens. It serves as the highest form of law in the United States, meaning that any law or policy that conflicts with the Constitution is deemed invalid.

The Constitution is not only critical for establishing the rule of law but also for ensuring that the rights of individuals are protected from government overreach. This status as the supreme law was affirmed in landmark Supreme Court cases, which have held that the Constitution takes precedence over state laws and any other federal laws that do not conform to its principles.

In contrast, the Declaration of Independence, while an important historical document that articulates the principles of freedom and democracy, does not function as a legal framework governing the country. The Bill of Rights, which is the first ten amendments to the Constitution, enumerates specific rights and liberties but does not represent the overall legal framework. The Federalist Papers are a collection of essays promoting the ratification of the Constitution but do not carry legal weight themselves.