Jefferson

            During the presidencies of Jefferson and Madison, the characterization of the two parties, to an extent, was said to be accurate. The Jeffersonian Republicans were usually characterized as strict constructionists who were opposed to the broad constructionism of the Federalists. Both Jefferson and Madison have made strict decisions in their presidencies that have highly affected the people under their rule. Jefferson and Madison both jumped from having a strict constitution to having a loose constitution. Having a strict constitution meant that anything the constitution did not say was in general terms not permitted. Having a loose constitution meant that anything the constitution did not say was permitted. Both Jefferson and Madison could not stick with just one certain type of constitution. During their presidencies, these two presidents haphazardly changed from a strict constitution to a loose constitution.
             During the presidency of Jefferson, his choice of having a strict constitution or a loose constitution varied greatly. However, during this time, significant breakthroughs and changes have effected people lives under his command. For a start, he downsized the army and the navy. He felt that the consistent presence of both an army and navy was unneeded. In return, this is what caused him to take this action. Jefferson also, under a strict constitution, did away with the excise tax. To him, this tax bred bureaucrats and bore heavily on his farmer. Under this constitution, this move would help him a great deal. In addition, under a strict constitution, Jefferson let the Alien and Sedition Acts run out. At this time, Jefferson was determined to undo the Federalist abuses begotten by the by the anti-French hysteria. .
             During the presidency of Jefferson, the decision to go toward a loose constitution was a highly predictable act. Throughout Jefferson's presidency, Jefferson made most of his decisions under a loose constitution.