Federalism

Enumerated Powers

Powers specifically listed in the Constitution that belong to the national government.

Article 1, § 8

Section of the Constitution that outlines the powers of Congress, including taxation and declaring war.

Tax

The power of the national government to collect money from citizens to fund government activities.

Declare War

The authority granted to Congress to initiate military action.

Regulate Commerce

The power to manage trade and economic activities between states (Interstate Commerce).

Currency

The national government's responsibility to create and manage money.

Spending Money

The authority of the national government to allocate funds for various purposes.

Post Offices

The establishment and management of postal services by the national government.

Reserved Powers

Powers that are not granted to the national government and are reserved for the states.

Police Powers

The authority of states to regulate for the health, safety, and welfare of their citizens.

10th Amendment

Constitutional amendment that emphasizes the powers reserved to the states and the people.

Intrastate Commerce

Economic activities that occur within a single state, regulated by state law.

Marble Cake Theory

A metaphor for federalism where state and national powers are intertwined and not easily separated.