👩🏾‍⚖️ap us government review

Strict constructionist

Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated August 2025
Verified for the 2027 exam
Verified for the 2027 examWritten by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated August 2025

Definition

Argues that the Constitution must be read narrowly, adhering closely to its text and the framers' original intent so that federal authority is limited to the specific powers enumerated in Article I. Advocates of this approach invoke the Tenth Amendment to protect state sovereignty and oppose broad readings of the Necessary and Proper Clause, influencing judicial rulings and federalism debates.

AP course connection

Topic 1.8: 1.8 Constitutional Interpretations of Federalism

Unit 1

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