College

Thomas Jefferson did all of the following except:

A. Appoint midnight judges
B. Pardon Alien and Sedition Act violators
C. Reduce taxes
D. Reduce military spending

Answer :

Final answer:

Thomas Jefferson enacted several policies as president that included pardoning Alien and Sedition Act violators, reducing taxes, and dramatically cutting military spending. However, he did not appoint midnight judges; that was a decision made by John Adams. Jefferson's presidency focused on limiting federal power and government spending.


Explanation:

Thomas Jefferson's Actions as President

Thomas Jefferson, the third President of the United States, was known for implementing many policies that reflected his vision of a limited government and a reduction in federal power, particularly after assuming office from John Adams, a Federalist.

Among his actions during his administration, the following were notable:

  • Jefferson pardoned those arrested under the Alien and Sedition Acts, demonstrating his opposition to those laws and supporting the rights of citizens.
  • He also reduced taxes, including the repeal of all internal taxes like the Whiskey Tax.
  • Moreover, he significantly reduced military spending, cutting down the military force to only 3,000 men and limiting the Navy.

However, one choice was not aligned with Jefferson’s actions: he did not appoint midnight judges. That action was actually undertaken by his predecessor, John Adams, in the final days of his term to secure Federalist control in the judiciary.


Learn more about Thomas Jefferson's Presidency