Why did the federalist target immigrants in the Allen and sedition acts?

Federalists targeted immigrants in the Alien and Sedition Acts because they viewed them as a potential threat to national security and political stability. During a time of heightened tensions, particularly with France, Federalists feared that immigrants, who often supported the opposition Democratic-Republicans, could undermine the government. By restricting Immigration and making it more difficult for immigrants to gain citizenship, the Federalists aimed to consolidate their political power and suppress dissent. The Sedition Act specifically aimed to silence criticism of the government, further targeting those who opposed Federalist policies.