March 23

[In my March 23, 1801 letter to Benjamin Waring and the republican citizens of Columbia, South Carolina, I write from Washington during my first weeks as President of the United States to gratefully acknowledge their congratulatory address following my election. I emphasize that free expression and public opinion are the only legitimate foundations of any government, and I offer a reassuring view that the fierce political divisions of our young nation are merely temporary, purifying themselves through open public debate. My analogy comparing political conflicts to passing clouds overspreading our land transiently highlights my spiritual faith in the durability of free speech, showing how I sought to heal a deeply fractured country by celebrating disagreement as a natural, healthy sign of a vibrant republic.]

The reliance is most flattering to me which you are pleased to express in the character of my public conduct, as is the expectation with which you look forward to the inviolable preservation of our national Constitution, deservedly the boast of our country. That peace, safety, and concord may be the portion of our native land, and be long enjoyed by our fellow-citizens, is the most ardent wish of my heart, and if I can be instrumental in procuring or preserving them, I shall think I have not lived in vain. In every country where man is free to think and to speak, differences of opinion will arise from difference of perception, and the imperfection of reason; but these differences, when permitted, as in this happy country, to purify themselves by free discussion, are but as passing clouds overspreading our land transiently, and leaving our horizon more bright and serene.

That love of order and obedience to the laws, which so remarkably characterize the citizens of the United States, are sure pledges of internal tranquillity; and the elective franchise, if guarded as the act of our safety, will peaceably dissipate all combinations to subvert a Constitution dictated by the wisdom, and resting on the will of the people. That will is the only legitimate foundation of any government, and to protect its free expression should be our first object. I offer my sincere prayers to the Supreme ruler of the Universe, that he may long preserve our country in freedom and prosperity, and to yourselves, Gentlemen, and the citizens of Columbia and its vicinity, the assurances of my profound consideration and respect.