Historical Debate (Which level is superior?) • ( Hamilton ) Believed the national government was superior regarding political affairs and the US Constitution should be read “liberally” and the powers should be “broad and sweeping” (necessary and proper clause) “elastic clause” ( Liberal constructionists ) • ( Jefferson ) Believed the state governments were superior because they are closer to the people, the US Constitution should be read “conservatively” and the federal powers are “limited” ( Strict constructionists )