What is the supreme law of the land?

The Constitution is recognized as the supreme law of the land, meaning that it is the highest form of law in the United States. This distinction is crucial because it establishes the framework for the federal government and outlines the rights and duties of both citizens and government entities. Under Article VI, Clause 2 of the Constitution—often referred to as the Supremacy Clause—it is explicitly stated that the Constitution, along with federal laws made pursuant to it, takes precedence over any conflicting state laws. This ensures that all states must adhere to the principles and provisions laid out in the Constitution, providing a consistent legal foundation across the nation.

In contrast, the other options serve important roles but do not hold the same legal authority. The Supreme Court interprets the Constitution and its rulings can influence law, but it is not a source of law itself. Federal laws are enacted by Congress but must align with the Constitution to be valid. The Declaration of Independence, while a critical historical document proclaiming the nation's values and intentions at its inception, does not serve as a governing document and is not legally binding in the way the Constitution is. Thus, the Constitution’s status as the foundational legal document substantiates its position as the supreme law of the land.