With power goes the possibility of corruption. Ben Franklin at the CC wanted to see limits on compensation of federal officials because men will move heaven and earth for money, love and power, and especially when money and power are combined.
As for Henry’s criticisms, had Henry bothered to do his duty and attend the Philadelphia Constitutional convention, there is no telling what positive influence he could have had. It is quite possible if not probable the taxing power and Article III would be different.
IIRC, he was also offered and declined the seat of Chief Justice of the United States. If he truly wished to protect the liberty of the people, he missed a superb opportunity.
Exactly. Henry could have made the case that corrupt men would certainly one day be in charge of the Federal Government. All we have seen since could have then been predicted with certainty from his understanding alone.
As for Henry’s criticisms, I think we agree. He comes across to me as someone who thinks that taking care of themselves and expressing their opinions of others is enough. Eventually he could not turn away from the Constitution. He should have taken some responsibility for shaping it. He was not just a victim.
I think that’s an important lesson when Conservatives pick their next presidential candidate. We need someone who has proven they can figure out what needs to be done and do it rather than just criticize the efforts of others.