Cardano has launched Node 9.0, a crucial update paving the way for the upcoming Chang hard fork, according to recent updates on the Cardano node GitHub page. Released by the Cardano development team on July 8, Node 9.0 is designed to support the anticipated hard fork, marking a significant step toward fully decentralised governance on the blockchain. This update, as detailed in Cardano Improvement Proposal (CIP) 1694, initiates the "Age of Voltaire" by introducing changes to the network's political structure, including the future implementation of Delegate Representatives (DReps) elected by ADA token holders to draft and uphold a Cardano Constitution. While Node 9.0 enables the start of this process, full governance capabilities will be introduced in version 10.0, expected in subsequent updates.