Question

Explain the concept of federalism and the relevant constitutional provision that establish federal and state division of powers.

A) Enumerate the principles of federalism
B) Elucidate the supremacy clause
C) Define the concept of state sovereignty
D) Detail the Tenth Amendment

Answer 1

Federalism is the division of power between the federal government and state governments. The Constitution establishes this division of powers through principles such as shared sovereignty and separation of powers, as well as provisions like the supremacy clause and the Tenth Amendment.

Step-by-step explanation:

Under the concept of federalism, power is divided between the federal government and state governments. The federal government has authority over issues such as foreign relations, while state governments oversee matters within their own states. The Constitution establishes this division of powers and provides relevant provisions:

1. Enumerate the principles of federalism: Federalism is based on the principles of shared sovereignty, separation of powers, and dual citizenship. It ensures that power is not concentrated in a single entity, but distributed between the federal government and state governments.
2. Elucidate the supremacy clause: The supremacy clause (Article VI) establishes that the Constitution and federal laws prevail over state laws when there is a conflict.
3. Define the concept of state sovereignty: State sovereignty refers to the political authority and autonomy of individual states within the federal system.
4. Detail the Tenth Amendment: The Tenth Amendment recognizes that any powers not specifically granted to the federal government or prohibited to the states are reserved to the states.