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[An] act of the Congress of the United States... which…

“[An] act of the Congress of the United States... which assumes powers... not delegated by the Constitution, is not law, but is altogether void and of no force.” quote by Thomas Jefferson
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“[An] act of the Congress of the United States... which assumes powers... not delegated by the Constitution, is not law, but is altogether void and of no force.”

Thomas Jefferson

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Legislative authority must stem from the Constitution; any power not granted is invalid.

In simple terms: Only constitutionally granted powers are valid.

Key Takeaway

Uphold constitutional limits on government.

Themes

law constitution government authority

Mood

author analytical

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • legislative drafting
  • policy analysis
  • civic education
  • judicial review

Key Concepts

legalism separation of powers

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you address ambiguous constitutional interpretations?
  • Can flexibility ever be justified?
A Different Perspective

Political realities may complicate strict adherence.

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