The Constitution established a federal government with specific powers, while the powers not delegated to the federal government were reserved to the states. Antifederalists feared that the federal government would gradually encroach upon the powers reserved to the states, reducing their autonomy and authority.
2. Representation in Congress:
The Constitution created a bicameral legislature, with the House of Representatives based on population and the Senate giving equal representation to each state, regardless of population size. Antifederalists argued that this system would give more power to large states and reduce the influence of smaller states in the federal government.
3. Supremacy Clause:
The Constitution established the federal government as the supreme authority in cases where there is a conflict between federal and state laws. Antifederalists worried that this clause could allow the federal government to override state laws and undermine the sovereignty of the states.
4. Judicial Review:
The Constitution gave the Supreme Court the power to declare laws unconstitutional. Antifederalists believed that this power would allow the federal judiciary to interfere with the affairs of the states and strike down state laws that the federal government deemed to be in conflict with the Constitution.
5. Bill of Rights:
Antifederalists insisted on the inclusion of a Bill of Rights to protect individual liberties and limit the powers of the federal government. They believed that without such protections, the federal government could become too powerful and infringe upon the rights of the states and their citizens.
6. Fear of Consolidation of Power:
Antifederalists feared that the establishment of a strong central government would lead to the consolidation of power in the hands of the federal government, leaving the states with little autonomy. They believed that the states should retain their individual sovereignty and independence.