Difficulty: Easy

Average Score: 100%

"The powers, rights, and authority, granted to the general government by this Constitution, are as complete, with respect to every object to which they extend, as that of any state government- It reaches to every thing which concerns human happiness- Life, liberty, and property, are under its control [sic]. There is the same reason, therefore, that the exercise of power, in this case, should be restrained within proper limits, as in that of the state governments."

Based on the passage, with which constitutional clause would the author disagree?

Rationale

The author would disagree with the Necessary and Proper Clause.

The passage emphasizes the direct election of Senators by the people, indicating a preference for democratic principles over the broad powers implied by the Necessary and Proper Clause. This clause allows Congress to make laws necessary for executing its powers, which could undermine the direct accountability of elected officials to their constituents.

A (Necessary and Proper Clause) CORRECT

The Necessary and Proper Clause grants Congress the authority to create laws that are necessary for executing its enumerated powers. This broad interpretation can enable Congress to expand its powers beyond those explicitly listed in the Constitution, which could conflict with the author's emphasis on direct elections and accountability of Senators to the public.

B (Full Faith and Credit Clause) YOUR ANSWER

The Full Faith and Credit Clause requires states to recognize and respect the public acts, records, and judicial proceedings of other states. This clause does not directly relate to the election of Senators and does not conflict with the intent expressed in the passage regarding direct election and representation.

C (Impeachment Clause) YOUR ANSWER

The Impeachment Clause outlines the process for removing federal officials, including Senators, from office. While this clause pertains to accountability, it does not contradict the emphasis on popular election presented in the passage and thus does not represent a point of disagreement.

D (Commerce Clause) YOUR ANSWER

The Commerce Clause grants Congress the power to regulate commerce among the states. Similar to the Impeachment Clause, it does not directly relate to the election of Senators and does not present a conflict with the author's focus on democratic representation.

Conclusion

The passage highlights the importance of direct election for Senators, which underscores democratic accountability. The Necessary and Proper Clause, with its potential to broaden congressional authority, represents a constitutional principle that could undermine this accountability. In contrast, the other clauses mentioned do not inherently conflict with the ideals expressed in the passage regarding the election of Senators by the people.