Creating the United States

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Jefferson Asks John Marshall to Administer Oath of Office

Jefferson Asks John Marshall to Administer Oath of Office

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Thomas Jefferson asked Federalist John Marshall (1755–1836), who had just taken the oath of office on February 4, 1801, as chief justice of the Supreme Court, to administer the oath of office on March 4, 1801, signifying Federalist acquiescence in Jefferson’s election. Jefferson also asked Marshall to determine whether Congress could determine another required oath of office. Marshall responded that the oath in the Constitution was the only required oath.

(Transcription)

“I propose to take the oath or oaths of office as President . . .”


Thomas Jefferson asked Federalist John Marshall (1755–1836), who had just taken the oath of office on February 4, 1801, as chief justice of the Supreme Court, to administer the oath of office on March 4, 1801, signifying Federalist acquiescence in Jefferson’s election. Jefferson also asked Marshall to determine whether Congress could determine another required oath of office. Marshall responded that the oath in the Constitution was the only required oath.