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The construction applied . . . to those parts of the…

“The construction applied . . . to those parts of the Constitution of the United States which delegate Congress a power . . . ought not to be construed as themselves to give unlimited powers, nor a part to be so taken as to destroy the whole residue of that instrument.” quote by Thomas Jefferson
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“The construction applied . . . to those parts of the Constitution of the United States which delegate Congress a power . . . ought not to be construed as themselves to give unlimited powers, nor a part to be so taken as to destroy the whole residue of that instrument.”

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.

The Constitution should limit congressional power, not grant unlimited authority, preserving the document’s integrity.

In simple terms: Congress must not overreach its constitutional limits.

Key Takeaway

Guard the Constitution’s balance of powers.

Themes

government law constitution limits balance

Mood

cautious analytical

Type

legal philosophical

When to use this quote

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

Key Concepts

separation of powers federalism interpretive restraint

Questions to Reflect On

  • How should modern issues be interpreted within original limits?
  • What mechanisms ensure accountability?
A Different Perspective

Political pressures can blur constitutional intent.

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