Federalism and the Separation of Powers

These flashcards cover key concepts and terms related to federalism and the separation of powers in the United States as noted in the lecture.

Federalism

A system of government in which power is divided between a central authority and constituent political units.

Separation of Powers

The division of government responsibilities into distinct branches to limit any one branch from exercising the core functions of another.

Dual Federalism

A clear separation of powers and responsibilities between the national and state governments, often described as ‘layer cake’ federalism.

Cooperative Federalism

A system in which state and national governments work together to shape policy, often referred to as ‘marble cake’ federalism.

The Supremacy Clause

Article VI of the Constitution, stating that federal law takes precedence over state laws.

Reserved Powers

Powers that are not granted to the federal government by the Constitution, and are therefore kept by the states.

Implied Powers

Powers not explicitly stated in the Constitution, but are reasonable derived from those powers that are enumerated.

The 17th Amendment

Amendment that established the direct election of U.S. Senators by popular vote, rather than by state legislatures.

Federal Preemption

The invalidation of a U.S. state law that conflicts with federal law.

Grants-in-Aid

Federal funds provided to states and localities for specific projects or programs.

Crossover Sanctions

Federal funding that is contingent on state compliance with certain federal mandates.

Direct Orders

Federal mandates requiring states to comply with certain laws without federal funding.

Block Grants

Federal funds provided to states or localities to be used for broad purposes with fewer restrictions.

Medicaid

A social health care program for families and individuals with low income, funded by both the state and federal government.

New Federalism

An approach to federalism that seeks to return powers to the states, advocating for a decentralized government.

Ambition must be made to counteract ambition

A principle expressed by James Madison in Federalist No. 51, emphasizing the need for checks and balances in government.

Federalist Papers

A series of 85 articles and essays written to promote the ratification of the United States Constitution.

Courts' Influence on Federalism

Judicial interpretations and rulings that shape the balance of power between state and federal government.

The Great Depression

A severe worldwide economic downturn that took place during the 1930s and caused significant changes to federalism in the U.S.

Civil Rights Movement

A struggle for social justice and equality, which influenced federal policies and the expansion of federal power.

Fiscal Federalism

The financial relations between units of government in a federal system, often concerning taxation and expenditure.