What does support the Constitution mean?

To support the Constitution means to uphold its principles, follow its provisions, and refrain from any action that would undermine it; the promise to support and defend the Constitution is the central duty imposed on every public official and every new citizen. The phrase appears in two distinct oaths. The Constitution itself, in Article VI, clause 3, requires that all federal and state legislative, executive, and judicial officers "be bound by Oath or Affirmation, to support this Constitution." The Oath of Allegiance for new citizens, set out in 8 CFR section 337.1, requires the new citizen to "support and defend the Constitution and laws of the United States of America against all enemies, foreign and domestic." Federal officials take the related oath under 5 U.S.C. section 3331, which uses similar language.

To support the Constitution, in practice, includes obeying federal, state, and local laws passed under constitutional authority; respecting the courts and the rule of law; participating peacefully in democratic processes such as voting, peaceable assembly, and petition; refraining from violent or rebellious action against the government; and respecting the rights of others as guaranteed by the Constitution and its amendments.

Support does not require active service or any particular political viewpoint; the duty is one of fidelity to the constitutional framework, not to any specific party, policy, or official. Citizens who believe a law is unjust may oppose it through lawful means including speech, petition, lobbying, voting, and litigation; what they may not do is take violent or constitutionally prohibited action.