Final answer:
Federal grants-in-aid to the states have become politically popular as they allow the national government to influence state and local activities and address national priorities. However, there are pitfalls, including excessive federal control and dependency on federal funding.
Step-by-step explanation:
Federal grants-in-aid to the states have become politically popular for several reasons. One reason is that they allow the national government to influence state and local activities by providing funding for specific programs or policy areas. This allows the national government to address national priorities and ensure consistency across different states. Additionally, federal grants-in-aid can be politically advantageous for elected officials, as they can take credit for positive outcomes resulting from the grants.
However, there are also pitfalls associated with federal grants-in-aid. One major pitfall is the potential for excessive federal control over state and local governments. The national government may impose requirements or regulations on the use of grant funds, limiting the flexibility of states in addressing their unique needs. Another pitfall is the risk of dependency on federal funding. States may become reliant on federal grants to support essential services, making them vulnerable to changes in federal funding levels or policies.