Aaron Burr and the Electoral Tie of 1801: Strict Constitutional Construction

Authors

Jennifer Van Bergen, The New School University

Abstract

The article challenges the traditional portrayal of Aaron Burr as a schemer in the 1801 electoral tie, arguing that Burr acted with constitutional integrity and principle, unlike Thomas Jefferson, who resorted to political deals. Burr's strict adherence to the Constitution and his refusal to interfere with the electoral process are framed as honorable, while Jefferson's actions are criticized as unconstitutional. The analysis suggests that Burr has been unfairly vilified and offers a counter-narrative to the conventional view of Burr as a villain, emphasizing his commitment to constitutional principles over party loyalty.

Disciplines

Constitutional Law | Law | Law and Politics

Recommended Citation

Jennifer Van Bergen, Aaron Burr and the Electoral Tie of 1801: Strict Constitutional Construction, 1 Cardozo Pub. L. Pol’y & Ethics J. 91 (2003).
Available at: https://larc.cardozo.yu.edu/cplpej/vol1/iss1/7