As you read the First amendment, the first ten amendments are pointed at CONGRESS (the central government). Generally, the body of the Constitution creates and LIMITS the central government. There are a few state limitations in the body of the Constitution but NOT in the first ten amendments.
Outside the Constitution, states are sovereign. States are constitutionally required to have a REPUBLICAN (representative) form of government. Art IV, Sec 4. Beyond that, it is up to YOU and your fellow state citizens to ensure the state is run properly by the representatives YOU elect - OR by DIRECT propositions and initiatives to change state law.
Local government. That is what individual and political freedom is all about. And oh, BTW, it is not the states but the feds who threaten your Life, Liberty, and Free Pursuits.
I don’t have time to pursue this discussion now but I disagree. As a practical matter, we’ve always expected our states and local governments to follow the Constitution. I understand the fine point you are making but I think this is academic.