Is the USA truly federal?

Argument 1: Yes

Federalism is embedded and entrenched in the constitution. Amendment X protects the states authority on issues such as elections which is still maintained today.

Argument 2: Yes

Social policies and state’s powers - state laws vary greatly between states which reflect the political and social viewpoint of people e.g: Death penalty which was banned in Virginia in 2021 but still legal in Texas

Argument 3: Yes

Presidents do champion the state’s power - Bush and Clinton both advocated for new federalism where states have more autonomy on issues.

Argument 1: No

It is weakly embedded in the US constitution - the Supremacy clause asserts federal laws under the Constitution constitute the Supreme law and the Necessary and Proper clause allows the federal govt to exert more power.

Argument 2: No

Federal govt can shape social policy - Medicare and Medicaid - impacts states spending and priorities.

Argument 3: No

Presidents can undermine state power - Obama care and economic recovery after 2008 financial crash - Trump and sanctuary cities