Question

explain why is it important that the federal government and the state governments have separate as well as shared powers. Cite at least three examples in order to substantiate your analysis

Answer 1

The federal and state governments must have separate and shared powers to maintain a balanced governance structure and prevent power centralization. Specific examples include exclusive federal powers like foreign relations and exclusive state powers such as education, whereas both can tax and build roads. The Constitution balances these powers and places limits to safeguard against abuse.

Step-by-step explanation:

The federal government and the state governments must have different powers as well as shared powers to ensure a balance between unity and diversity within the nation, preventing the concentration of power in one entity and allowing for more localized governance on certain issues. Examples of powers exclusively held by the federal government include regulating interstate and international commerce, coining money, and conducting foreign relations. On the other hand, state governments hold exclusive powers over areas such as establishing local governments, setting up schools, and controlling trade within the state.

Shared powers, also known as concurrent powers, include the ability to tax, build roads, and provide for public welfare. This allows both levels of government to function effectively and take responsibility for the welfare of citizens. Finally, cities and municipalities fit into the federal system as subordinate entities to states, having powers delegated to them by the state government, while Native American reservations have a unique status that combines elements of tribal, federal, and state governance.

The Constitution places limits on the national government through enumerated powers and the Bill of Rights, and on state powers by prohibiting states from actions such as coining money or entering into treaties. If arguing for a strong national government, one might cite the Supremacy Clause and the Necessary and Proper Clause as sections that provide robust federal authority. Conversely, the Tenth Amendment would be key to defending state sovereignty.

Answer 2

The judicial Branch of the government is made up of judges and courts. Judges are appointed by the president and then confirmed by the Senate unlike the election of the president and the congress. There is a hierarchy of federal courts in the United States. The first level is the Supreme Court. They have the final say of the matter. They are composed of Federal judges who are appointed for life. They can only be removed from office when they die or by impeachment by the Congress. The second level is the district courts. They cover area of the countries and handle most of the federal cases. The job of these courts is to interpret the laws of the Congress. They do not make laws and only make decisions on actual cases where someone has shown that they have been harmed