What action did John Adams take just before leaving office in 1800?

Just before leaving office in 1800, John Adams made a significant move by appointing Federalist judges, which is often referred to as the "midnight judges" phenomenon. This decision was part of a broader strategy to ensure that the Federalist influence would remain in the judicial system despite the impending shift of power to the Democratic-Republicans under Thomas Jefferson. Adams' appointments were made in the final hours of his presidency and were intended to preserve the legacy and policies of the Federalist Party, as the judiciary would have lasting effects on American law and governance even after he left office. This action sparked controversy and led to notable events, such as the Marbury v. Madison case, which solidified the power of judicial review in the U.S. legal system. The other options do not accurately represent key actions taken by Adams immediately before leaving office.