Knowledge is power and informed citizens are empowered citizens. However, many people know very little about our state and federal government. For example:
- According to a national survey, 22 percent of Americans think the three branches of government are Republican, Democrat and Independent.
- Over one third of Americans cannot identify even one branch of government.
- Only two percent of Americans polled could identify the five rights in the First Amendment.
To foster a better public understanding of civics and the essential role the courts play in a vibrant democracy, the New Jersey State Bar Association and New Jersey Judiciary created the Benchmark Civics Project.
