The Constitution... meant that its coordinate branches should be checks on each other. But the opinion which gives to the judges the right to decide what laws are constitutional and what not, not only for themselves in their own sphere of action but for the Legislature and Executive also in their spheres, would make the Judiciary a despotic branch.


Letter to Abigail Adams (1804). - First Presidential Administration (1801-1805)

Thomas Jefferson Quotes

The Constitution... meant that its coordinate branches should be checks on each other. But the opinion which gives to the judges the right to decide...

The Constitution... meant that its coordinate branches should be checks on each other. But the opinion which gives to the judges the right to decide...

The Constitution... meant that its coordinate branches should be checks on each other. But the opinion which gives to the judges the right to decide...

The Constitution... meant that its coordinate branches should be checks on each other. But the opinion which gives to the judges the right to decide...