Federalism

Federalism is a system of government in which power is divided between a central authority and constituent political units, allowing for a balance of governance that respects regional autonomy while ensuring national unity.


  • Examples of Federalism of state rights:

- The 10th Amendment: Printz v. United States (1997)- Supreme court struck this down because the government cannot “commandeer” state officials to carry out federal laws.

  • The Role of Local Governments: Home Rule Amendments in various states


Examples of Supremacy Clause

  • McCulloch v. Maryland (1819)

  • Ogden v. Gibbons


    Examples of 14th amendment:

  • Civil rights act (1965)

  • Voting Rights Act (1965)

  • Americans with Disability act (1990)



Responsibility of National Government:

  1. Conducts Foreign Policy- This manages the united states relationships with other countries.

  2. Regulate Commerce- Manages businesses and trade.

  3. Provides for the common defense overseas the armed forces


Responsibility of the State Government:

  1. Promotes Public Health- Manages the flu, outbreaks, pandemics and more.

  2. Promotes Public Safety- Oversees fire departments, emergency services, and law enforcement agencies to ensure community safety and emergency responsiveness.

  3. Promotes Public Welfare



  • Provides social services including housing assistance, food programs, and mental health support to improve the quality of life for citizens.

        

Powers:

  • Federal powers: Establishing national standards for social services, coordinating across state lines, and providing funding for state and local welfare programs.

Enumerated/ Expressed: Granted by national government

Exclusive Power-

Inherent Powers- Sovereignty and implied powers (Louisiana Purchase)

  • Prohibited (limited power)


  • Concurrent Powers: Shared by both national and state governments, such as the power to tax and establish courts.


10th Amendment: This amendment reserves powers not delegated to the federal government to the states, reinforcing the principle of state sovereignty in the federal system.