Polotics

What is federalism?

A system where power is shared between a national government and state governments.

Characteristics of Federalism

Multiple levels of government; each level has its own responsibilities; Constitution protects both levels.

Confederate system

A government system where states have most of the power and the national government is weak.

Unitary system

A government system where the national government holds all the power, and states follow its rules.

Federal system

A government system where power is shared between national and state governments.

Advantages of centralized government policy-making

Consistency, efficiency, nationwide standards.

Disadvantages of centralized government policy-making

Less flexibility for states, potential to ignore local needs.

Who decides the limits of federal power under the Constitution?

The Supreme Court interprets the Constitution and decides on federal government powers.

Enumerated powers

Powers explicitly listed in the Constitution for the federal government.

Elastic clause (necessary and proper clause)

Allows Congress to pass laws needed to carry out its enumerated powers.

Reserved powers

Powers not granted to the federal government and reserved for states.

Denied powers

Powers that both federal and state governments cannot exercise, such as violating rights or granting titles of nobility.

Full faith and credit clause

Requires states to recognize legal documents and court rulings from other states.

Privileges and immunities clause

Prohibits states from discriminating against citizens from other states.

Federal government spending

Most federal spending goes to Social Security, Medicare/Medicaid, military, and interest on debt.

State government spending

Most state spending goes to education, healthcare, and infrastructure.

Dual Federalism

A type of federalism with a clear division of powers between state and federal governments.

Cooperative Federalism

Federal and state governments work together, example includes the New Deal.

New Federalism

More power returned to states, example includes block grants.

Categorical grants

Federal funds given for specific purposes.

Block grants

Federal funds given for broader purposes with more state control.

Unfunded mandates

Rules that states must follow without federal funding, enforced by penalties or funding cuts.