What is the highest law of the land?

The highest law of the land is the Constitution, which serves as the foundational legal document of the United States. It establishes the framework for the government, delineating the powers and responsibilities of different branches, and sets forth the rights of citizens. The Constitution is recognized as the supreme law because it provides the legal basis for all legislation and acts of government.

Any laws or actions that contradict the Constitution can be declared unconstitutional and, therefore, invalid. This supremacy is affirmed in Article VI, Clause 2 of the Constitution, commonly known as the Supremacy Clause, which states that the Constitution and federal laws made pursuant to it shall be the supreme law of the land. In contrast, documents like the Declaration of Independence articulate foundational principles and values but do not govern the operations of the government directly. Similarly, the Bill of Rights enumerates specific rights granted to the citizens but is part of the Constitution itself rather than a separate law. Federal statutes are laws enacted by Congress but must align with the Constitution to be valid.