Final answer:
A Federalist would likely have criticized Jefferson's inaugural address, as Federalists favored a strong central government and the promotion of elite interests, while Jefferson advocated for limited federal power and more control for states and individuals.
Step-by-step explanation:
How a Federalist would have reacted to the concept of good government as outlined in Jefferson's inaugural address can be understood through the lens of their fundamental beliefs. Federalists, like Alexander Hamilton and John Adams, believed in strong federal government power and favored the interests of the few over the many, believing that the prosperity of the wealthy would trickle down to benefit all. This contrasted with Jefferson's views of a more limited federal government and greater empowerment of states and the people.
Given that Federalists supported a broad construction when interpreting the Constitution and saw federally funded internal improvements as legitimate government functions, Jefferson’s ideas of limited government power would have likely been met with skepticism, if not outright opposition. The Federalists feared too much democracy could harm the republic, and prioritized social stability and the liberty of the people which they thought could best be preserved by a central government promoting the interests of the wealthy.
Therefore, a Federalist would likely have responded critically to Jefferson's inaugural address, which represented a departure from their principles, emphasizing a government that should work for the common man and limit its own power in favor of individual liberties and states’ rights.