First published in February 1788, this essay by the pseudonymous “Impartial Examiner” (whose true identity is still unknown) argues against ratifying the Constitution on the ground that it creates an “arbitrary government.” Specifically, the Impartial Examiner argues that the federal government will not be accountable to the people it represents and that it will be impervious to popular grievances. The essay raises concerns about the specific grants of power that allow the federal government to tax citizens and fund a national military. The “Impartial Examiner” argues that such powers are likely to be abused. Like other Antifederalists, he also argues that the lack of a bill of rights imperils individual civil liberties.