What is an amendment?

An amendment refers specifically to a formal change or addition to the Constitution. This process is crucial for allowing the Constitution to evolve and adapt over time to meet the changing needs and values of society. Amendments can address a variety of issues, ranging from civil rights to voting procedures, and they require a rigorous process for approval, typically involving a two-thirds majority in both houses of Congress, followed by ratification from three-fourths of the state legislatures.

The other options do not accurately define what an amendment is. An election process is about how officials are chosen, a branch of government refers to the division of government into executive, legislative, and judicial branches, and a presidential decree relates to an order issued by the president, which is distinct from the constitutional amendment process. Understanding this distinction is critical for grasping the foundational principles of U.S. governance.