In Federalist No. 70, Alexander Hamilton argues that the national government should have the power to tax and regulate commerce because these powers are essential to its effective functioning.
The Power to Tax
Hamilton begins by arguing that the power to tax is essential for any government to function. Without the ability to raise revenue, the government would be unable to pay for its expenses, such as the salaries of its officials, the construction of public works, and the maintenance of a military.
Opponents of the Constitution argued that the national government should not have the power to tax because it would be too burdensome on the people. However, Hamilton counters this argument by arguing that the power to tax is a necessary evil. In order to have a strong and effective government, we must be willing to give it the authority to raise revenue.
The Power to Regulate Commerce
Hamilton also argues that the national government should have the power to regulate commerce. He argues that this power is essential to protect the national economy and to ensure that the United States is able to compete on a level playing field with other nations.
Opponents of the Constitution argued that the national government should not have the power to regulate commerce because it would interfere with the free market. However, Hamilton counters this argument by arguing that the government has a responsibility to protect the national economy and to ensure that the United States is able to compete on a level playing field with other nations.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Hamilton argues that the national government should have the power to tax and regulate commerce because these powers are essential to its effective functioning. He argues that without these powers, the government would be unable to pay for its expenses, protect the national economy, or ensure that the United States is able to compete on a level playing field with other nations.
- The national government needs the power to tax to function effectively.
- The national government needs the power to regulate commerce to protect the national economy and ensure that the United States is able to compete on a level playing field with other nations.
- Opponents of the Constitution argued that the national government should not have these powers because they would be too burdensome on the people.
- Hamilton counters these arguments by arguing that these powers are necessary for the effective functioning of the government.