They might feel justified because of the principle of nullification. They believe it is unconstitutional, so they have the right to disobey. hopefully this was helpful
Americans became more suspicious of aliens-immigrants living in the country who were not citizens. Many Europeans who came to the United States in 1790’s supported the ideals of the French Revolution, Americans questioned whether these aliens would remain loyal if the United States went to war with France. They also felt threatened by the acts specifically because they felt it violated the constitution.