Antifederalist vs. Federalist

Your Liberty is at Stake!

The states are, and should remain, the core of our republic. It is there that the people can be properly represented. When states have to bend to the central government's will, the people will pay with their liberty.

• Federalist

• Ant-Federalist

Leave it to the Experts

The common people do not have the refinement to participate directly in the government. A chosen body of citizens will the desires of the masses and apply their wisdom to the ruling nation.

• Federalist

• Anti-Federalist

A Good Investment

A government cannot simply operate, provide critical services, & support military without money. A reasonable amount of taxes is needed to maintain a functional,. federal government. The alternative is a do-nothing government and a non-existent national defense. Growth & improvement cost money, but are worth the investment.

• Federalist

• Anti-Federalist

Not Equal, Not Fair

The Senate creates a completely unequal setting for legislation. As it stands, the tiny state of Delaware has as much representation in the Senate as a large and populous state like Virginia. How is this fair? How is this Democratic?

• Federalist

• Anti-Federalist

Why Restrict Representation?

I see no reason to restrict the representation of small states in the House. America deserves a government with balanced state power, giving each an equal seat at the table.

• Federalist

• Anti-Federalist

What Size Crown?

After our breakup (and war) with King George III a few years back, why would we want another king at the head of our new government? Supporters say that the President will be elected. I don't think that mean he won't go looking for a crown.

• Federalist

• Anti-Federalist

Make a List

The supporters of the Constitution do not believe a listing of rights of the people is necessary. We need a Bill of Rights to make sure the government does not take away our liberties.

• Federalist

• Anti-Federalist

Forget the List

A written list of rights sounds like a great idea, until you think about it a little harder. Can we all agree on ten things, or even a hundred? Would those make up the whole list? What about something you think of later? Is it not protected? Putting things on a list make it seems like there are only so many rights worth protecting.

• Federalist

• Anti-Federalist

Judging the Judicial

Opponents of the Constitution are trying to scare you away with the unfounded tales about the judicial branch. Here's the truth-this is the smallest and least powerful branch in the government. It cannot tax you, command the military, or take away your rights. It is created to protect your liberty. Remember that.

• Federalist

• Anti-Federalist

Save it for Later

Critics from both sides have complained about how slavery is treated and proposed in this Constitution. Some wanted more protections, while others wanted to abolish slavery entirely. The only way to move forward is compromise. We must leave this debate for the future.

• Federalist

• Anti-Federalist