What was a key reason for the controversy surrounding FDR's New Deal policies?

The controversy surrounding Franklin D. Roosevelt's New Deal policies largely stemmed from the argument over increased government involvement in the economy. The New Deal represented a fundamental shift in the role of the federal government, expanding its influence in various aspects of economic and social life in order to combat the Great Depression. Critics argued that such a level of government intervention undermined free-market principles and individual liberties, leading to fears of a growing government overreach and the potential establishment of a more centralized or socialized economy. Supporters, however, contended that these measures were necessary for recovery and relief.

The other options miss the central issue of the debate, as they do not accurately reflect the primary conflict at the heart of the New Deal. While social programs did become a part of the New Deal, the notion that it lacked focus on them does not capture the essence of the controversy. Similarly, claiming that the New Deal aimed to maintain individualism overlooks the very nature of its proposals. Lastly, opposition to legislation for the working class, while present in some debates, does not encapsulate the overarching concern about the extent of government involvement, which lay at the core of many critiques of the New Deal.