Web Quest
Will America
ever have a President Schwarzenegger:
Should
America amend article II, section 1, clause 5 of the United States Constitution
that limits eligibility for the Presidency of the United States to natural-born
citizens?
CIS 229
Mr. McGoey’s and his ESL group
Introduction:
“President Schwarzenegger???” Actor, Arnold Schwarzenegger reporter in a 1999 interview he’s considering running for governor of California in 2002, and hinted at a desire to run for the presidency someday. Well, what can stop him? The United Stated has already proven they will elect an actor into office. Certainly, Mr. Schwarzenegger has proven his devotion to the United States by risking his life defending us from countless terrorists, aliens, and all around bad guys (at least, in the movies). There is no denying Arnold is loved by millions of fans; some of which are presently at the legal voting age. He married a Kennedy. What more does Arnold Schwarzenegger need to occupy the Presidency of the United
States?
While there is nothing stopping the Austrian born Schwarzenegger from running for governor, neither he, nor any other foreign-born Americans, can run for the Presidency of the United States. The U.S. Constitution clearly states, in article II, section 1, clause 5, in order to be the President of the United States, one must be a natural-born citizen. Our founding fathers did not specifically state the reason for this detail, but many historians believe the native-born qualification was put in place to stop any threat of foreign influence on our newly formed Presidency. Even today some feel the native-born clause secures our President will make decisions based on our best interest, free of any foreign power control.
Yet, there are many others who contend article II, section 1, clause 5, is outdated and no longer needed in America today. They believe that even a native-born President may be influenced by a foreign nation. Further, many point to the countless contributions foreign-born citizens have given this country; making America what it is today. It’s only fair that every citizen, foreign or native born, be offered the same opportunities, including the nations highest office. Even Arnold should have the right to be president. Even you should have the right.
Task:
On July 24, 2000, the subcommittee of the House of Representatives met to conduct a hearing on House Joint Resolution 88 (H.J.Res.88), which proposes to change the part of the U.S. Constitution that limits eligibility for the of the Presidency of the United States to native–born citizens. Your task is to (1) examine and summarize the speakers of this hearing, (2) present the views of your speaker in a mock hearing of H.J.Res.88 in the classroom, (3) create and interpret an online opinion poll dealing with H.J.Res.88, and (4) write an email to Congressman Serrano and Senator Clinton .
(1) H.J.Res.88 directions:
Each group will examine one of the 5 speakers in the H.J.Res.88 hearing. Using the essay format, you are to establish the stance of your speaker, providing at least 3 points supporting their opinion.
Group 1: OPENING
STATEMENT OF CHAIRMAN CANADY
Group 2: STATEMENT
OF MR.RAIMUNDO DELGADO, TEACHER, ASHLAND MIDDLE SCHOOL, ASHLAND, MA
Group 3: STATEMENT
OF MR.BALINT VAZSONYI, DIRECTOR, CENTER FOR THE AMERICAN FOUNDING
Group 5: STATEMENT
OF FORREST McDONALD, HISTORIAN AND PROFESSOR OF HISTORY, UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA
(2) Mock hearing of
H.J.Res.88:
Each group will have 5 minutes to present a summary of their speaker’s feelings toward the native-born presidency requirement. You will answer questions and give responses based on what you believe your speaker would say. Provide at least 3 supporting detail for your argument.
(3) Poll Directions:
Each group will compile 3 questions relevant to the H.J.Res.88 amendment proposal. All groups will combine their questions to form an opinion poll which will be published online in OpinionPower.
(4) Write letter:
Interpret the results of your poll and include them in your email to Congressman Serrano and Senator Clinton. This is your opportunity to share your thoughts and opinions with a public official, and perhaps make an impact. Follow the letter writing format. Include at least 3 supports for your argument.
Evaluations:
Each section of the task will be worth 25% of your grade. Focus on following the format of each section, and supporting what you are saying. Good luck, and have fun on your quest.