Sizing Up The House of Representatives - Federalist #58
In Federalist #58 James Madison responds to the argument that the number of delegates in the House of Representatives will not increase appropriately.
Federalist #58
February 20, 1788
James Madison
In Federalist #58 James Madison discusses yet another criticism regarding the makeup of the House of Representatives.
Specifically, he addresses the concern held by many citizens of larger States that the number of Delegates sent to the House will not grow accordingly with the increase in State populations.
As the Senate gave small States an equal amount of members, they received a disproportionately large say in the workings of the Upper Chamber.
There was a fear that they would use this power to adversely affect the proper increase in Congressmen.
Power of the Purse
Madison counters this concern on several fronts.
The most notable argument Madison makes relies on the fact that the House of Representatives has the responsibility to pass financial laws.
Since the House will have more members from larger States, they will be able to halt monetary bills from making their way to the Senate.
This is a major part of the Balance of Powers.
Too Big, Too Much
Interestingly, Madison points out that increases in the size of Congress in a republican government is not always a good thing.
If the House is too crowded, there is a chance that a few members can lead the larger body in a direction that is not in the best interest of the people.
Today, with 435 Congresspersons, it is easy to see how important ideas can get lost in the crowd.
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