In the ... republic of America, the power surrendered by the people is first divided between two distinct governments, and
then the portion allotted to each subdivided among distinct and
separate departments. Hence a double security arises to the
rights of the people. The different governments will control each
other, at the same time that each will be controlled by itself.
-Federalist No. 51
What assurance did this argument give to those who opposed ratifying the Constitution?
A The amendment process would allow state governments to nullify federal law.
B Making the federal government superior to state governments would ensure greater
stability.
c The rights of citizens would be better protected by having both federal and state levels of
government
D Giving greater power to the federal government would allow it to assist states in times of
crisis.