Congress must convene a convention to amend the Constitution when requested by which group?

The process for amending the U.S. Constitution provides for two methods: one through Congress and the other through a convention called by the states. According to Article V of the Constitution, Congress must convene a convention to propose amendments when requested by at least two-thirds of state legislatures. This means that if at least 34 out of 50 states submit applications for a convention to propose amendments, Congress is required to call for that convention.

Understanding this process highlights the significant power held by the states in influencing constitutional amendments through their legislatures. While a simple majority in Congress can propose amendments, this does not trigger the necessity for a convention; instead, the two-thirds requirement creates a higher threshold that reflects a broader consensus among the states. The role of state governors in this context is not specified, as they do not hold direct authority to call for a constitutional convention.

This highlights the careful balance of power between federal and state authorities in the amendment process, with the framers of the Constitution ensuring that a significant number of states agree before any major changes can be considered.