1801/11/01
Jefferson, Thomas, 1743-1826
Autograph letter signed
Title: to Edward Livingston, Esq.
Discussing his opinions on the Sedition act. In part: "...My text of explanation would be this. The President is to heave the laws executed. He may order an offense then to be prosecuted. If he sees a prosecution put into a train which is not lawful, he may order it to be discontinued and put into the legal train. I found a prosecution going on against Duane for an offense against the Senate, founded on the Sedition act. I affirm that act to be no law, because in opposition to the Constitution; and I shall treat it as a nullity whenever it comes in the way of my functions.."
GLC07869