Jefferson, Madison, and the US Presidency

The interpretation of the constitution has been a topic of great debate since it's ratification in 1790. Some presidents, such as James Madison, preferred a broad construction and interpretation as to allow them to do whatever they feel they should be able to. Opponents to this idea acted entirely opposite, like Thomas Jefferson who preferred a strict construction as to eliminate any possible usurpation of powers. Simple messages or speeches made by these individuals to others …

…any and all rules at a federal level, the other wished to grant many of its powers to the state governments and the people themselves. These viewpoints ultimately led to the splits that separated the parties. Although their philosophies in interpreting the constitution differed, the parties and their leaders worked hard to ensure legislation was passed that made sure their goals were achieved, and this turned out to be key in the development of America.