What is considered the supreme law of the land in the United States?

The Constitution is regarded as the supreme law of the land in the United States due to its foundational role in the governance of the country. It establishes the framework for the federal government, delineating the powers and responsibilities of its various branches while also laying out the rights of the states and the citizens.

This supremacy is articulated in Article VI, Clause 2 of the Constitution, often referred to as the Supremacy Clause, which states that the Constitution, as well as federal laws made pursuant to it, take precedence over state laws and constitutions. This means that any law that conflicts with the Constitution is rendered ineffective, ensuring a uniform legal framework across the nation.

While the Bill of Rights is a crucial part of the Constitution, as it consists of the first ten amendments that guarantee individual rights and liberties, it does not serve as the supreme law itself but rather as a component of the broader constitutional framework. The Declaration of Independence, although a key historical document proclaiming the American colonies' separation from British rule, does not constitute law. Similarly, the Federalist Papers are a collection of essays advocating for the ratification of the Constitution but do not hold legal authority.