Question

In regards to the national bank, James Madison feared

A. the precedent established by its creation could give too much authority to the Executive Branch
B. the necessary and proper clause could give Congress the authority to violate individual civil liberties
C. the Legislative Branch might overextend its constitutional authority
D. the government could create more corporations on a whim

Answer 1

James Madison feared that the national bank would set a precedent allowing the Legislative Branch to overextend its constitutional authority, influenced by his strict constructionist view of the Constitution.

Step-by-step explanation:

James Madison's fears regarding the national bank centered on constitutional principles and the potential for governmental overreach. Specifically, Madison worried about the precedent that the bank's creation might set, potentially giving the Legislative Branch the power to overextend its constitutional authority.

This concern was rooted in Madison's belief in a strict constructionist interpretation of the Constitution, meaning that he favored a narrow and literal interpretation of the government's powers.

He was wary of the "necessary and proper" clause being used to expand federal powers at the expense of states and the liberties of the people.