Madison: On Elective Despotism
An ELECTIVE DESPOTISM was not the government we fought for; but one which should not only be founded on free principles, but in which the powers of government should be so divided and balanced among several bodies of magistracy, as that no one could transcend their legal limits, without being effectually checked and restrained by the others.
James Madison, Federalist No. 48, February 1, 1788
The Heritage Foundation: Rediscovering Our Principles, Reclaiming Our Future