The Federal System

National Government Powers

Powers specifically assigned to the national government.

State Government Powers

Powers that are reserved for the states as defined by the Constitution.

Shared Powers

Powers that are held by both the national and state governments.

Expressed Powers

Powers that are explicitly stated in the Constitution.

Implied Powers

Powers not explicitly stated but necessary for the government to carry out its duties.

Inherent Powers

Powers that are essential for the government simply because it exists.

Delegated Powers

The combined total of expressed, implied, and inherent powers.

Supremacy Clause

The constitutional provision that establishes the national government as supreme over state laws.

Concurrent Powers

Powers that are shared by both the national and state governments.

Denied Powers

Powers explicitly denied to the national government by the Constitution.

Guaranties to States

Protections and assurances provided to states, including a republican form of government and protection against invasion.

McCulloch v. Maryland

A landmark Supreme Court case that established the supremacy of the national government over state laws.

Elastic Clause

Another name for the Implied Powers or Necessary and Proper Clause, allowing Congress to create laws needed to carry out their powers.

Reserved Powers

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

Examples of National Powers

War, making treaties, and controlling immigration.

Example of State Power

Establishing public schools.