It was in consequence of this characteristic, that it has so frequently been said of Mr.Adams, that he was not a reliable party man.

This was to a degree true.

He was not reliable for any policy adopted simply to promote party interests, and secure party ends.

But in regard to all measures which in his judgment would advance the welfare of the people, secure the rights of man, and elevate the race, no politician, no statesman the world has produced, could be more perfectly relied upon.
This disposition to act right, whether with or against his party, was developed by the first vote he ever gave in a legislative body.

While in the Massachusetts Senate, the Federalists were the dominant party.