based on debate and deliberation. The Electoral College still exists, although now it
is merely a formality, and members must act as directed by the voters in their state.

The third branch of government, the judiciary, was designed to be even more
insulated from majority rule - and it remains so to this day. Although some judges
in some states are elected, all federal judges are appointed for life; they cannot have
their salaries reduced, and they are removable only for treason or other high crimes

*    LJ $?

and misdemeanors.       3-'-^ y'

FEDERAL vs STATE
In early America there was an important debate about whether individual rights and
minority rights are best protected by smaller, local governments or by a centralized,
national government. Those who favored a strong central government - the
Federalists - believed that its checks and balances would limit the passions that can
more easily sweep through smaller communities. As Madison reflected later in life:

"The history of ancient Republics had demonstrated the evils incident
to popular assemblages, so quickly formed, so susceptible of
contagious passions, so exposed to the misguidance of eloquent and
ambitious leaders. It remained for the people of the U.S. by combining
a federal and a Republican organization to enlarge still more of this