Cornell University Press Negotiating The Constitution

He follows the disputes over the interpretation of this document - focusing on James Madison's changing views - as the new government took shape and political parties were formed. Lynch points out that the first six Congresses and President George Washington disregarded the framers' intentions when they were deemed impractical to follow. In contrast, he warns that the version of original intent put forth in recent Supreme Court opinions regarding congressional power could hinder Congress in serving the nation.