Question

How can our system of federalism lead to conflict between the states and the federal government?

Answer 1

The Constitution reserves certain powers to the states, but it expressly grants to the federal government the authority to act for the nation in many areas. The Constitution and federal laws are supreme, but implied powers are not named directly. Whether the federal government should act on these implied powers is a matter of debate.

Answer 2

Federalism means that individual states share power with the central/national government. This means they must work together. Anytime cooperation is demanded there will always be conflict in trying to appease both sides.