What is the issue of nullification?

Answer 1

Nullification is an idea dating back to Jefferson's time, when he helped author the Kentucky and Virginia Resolutions. These documents proclaimed that states had the right to nullify or declare void any federal law they deemed unconstitutional. Strong supporters of states rights championed the idea and right of nullification. Of course this idea would resurface during Jackson's presidency, and remain in the public's mind until the Civil War, in which several states nullified Federal Laws, and created their own government and nation.

Answer 2

The issue of nullification refers to the concept that individual states have the right to invalidate or reject federal laws that they deem unconstitutional. This was a contentious debate in the United States during the early 19th century, particularly surrounding issues such as the tariff and slavery. Ultimately, the Supreme Court ruled that nullification was not legal and that federal law supersedes state law.