Essay Prompt Option 2: Federalism, Power, and Policy Outcomes

Federalism is often described as a system that divides power, but in practice it frequently redistributes power over time. Using concepts from Chapters 3 and 4, analyze how dual federalism, cooperative federalism, and fiscal federalism shape policy outcomes and political accountability in the United States.

Compare two models of federalism and explain how each alters the balance of power between national and state governments.

Analyze the role of grants-in-aid, mandates, or the Commerce Clause in shifting authority.

Evaluate whether modern federalism promotes policy innovation or undermines state sovereignty, using a specific policy area (education, healthcare, civil rights, or economic regulation).

Your essay should directly address the tension between efficiency, equity, and constitutional intent.