Which leader feared political decision making by the masses (the common, ordinary people)? Thomas Jefferson James Madison George Washington Alexander Hamilton

George Washington had a notable fear of political decision-making by the masses. He believed that democracy should be tempered with a certain level of elite governance, fearing that uninformed voters could make rash decisions that might threaten the stability of the new nation. This apprehension influenced his actions during his presidency, as he often sought to balance popular opinion with a strong sense of responsibility towards the nation's future. Additionally, Washington's concerns are echoed in the founding documents, where the framers designed a system with checks and balances, fearing the potential chaos of pure democracy. The establishment of the Electoral College was one such measure intended to mediate the influence of the public, ensuring a more stable decision-making process. This cautious approach creates interesting discussions about the tension between popular will and informed governance that still resonate today!