Why do George Mason and James Madison believe that a national rather than federal government is necessary?

George Mason and James Madison believed that a national government was necessary to ensure a strong and unified response to issues that transcended state boundaries, such as defense, commerce, and taxation. They argued that a federal system, which granted significant power to individual states, could lead to disunity and inefficiency, particularly in times of crisis. A national government, in their view, would provide the necessary authority to maintain order, protect rights, and promote the general welfare of all citizens. This perspective was instrumental in shaping the Constitution and addressing the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation.