Andrew Jackson is undoubtedly one of the most influential, controversial and scandalous presidents to have held office. His ideas created the Democratic Party. His creation of the Democratic Party intensified tensions in Washington DC and across the political landscape. These actions led to the creation of a second opposing party. His extreme policies and loose interpretation of the United States Constitution influenced the nation's expansion, trade, and politics domestically and internationally. Andrew Jackson's loose interpretation of the Constitution is validated by his statement "Every public official who takes an oath to support the Constitution swears that he will support it as he understands it, and not as others understand it" (Bill Veto Message on the Bank of the United States). Andrew Jackson gained enormous power for the executive branch and was instrumental in the nation's westward expansion. His aggressiveness and firm hold on the nation's affairs united the nation through his vision of manifest destiny. He is also coined as the poster boy of the common people. Although Andrew Jackson had numerous accomplishments, he was not the leader he claimed to be in terms of protecting states' rights and representing the common man. Being a man of the people implies that you are looking out for the sole interest of the common man. Andrew Jackson only thought short term when it came to the needs of the common man and the nation, as is the case with his actions regarding the national bank which turned out to be economic suicide. Jackson had attempted to pursue the founders' vision of creating a nation free from debt or centralized finance that would give people greater control over... middle of paper... Legal News & Legal Resources. Np, Jan. 13, 2006. Web. Nov. 26, 2011. “United States Supreme Court Cases and Opinions.” United States Supreme Court Center. Justia, 2011. Web. 13 Dec 2011. .Jackson, Andrew. "Farewell speech." March 14, 1837. Address.Jackson, Andrew. “Proclamation Concerning Annulment.” 10 Dec 1832. Address.Jackson, Andrew. “Veto Message of the United States Bank Bill.” Veto message on the United States Bank bill. Washington, July 10, 1832. Address.Walter, Coffey. “UNCUT AMERICAN HISTORY Exploring facts and debunking myths in the quest for freedom.” ANDREW JACKSON AND THE NATIONAL DEBT. Np, 17 01 2011. Web. 1 December 2011. .