Federalism Advantages and Disadvantages

A system of government where power is shared between a central authority (national government) and regional authorities (states).

States can experiment with new laws and policies, providing lessons for other states and the federal government.

Federalism allows for a greater variety of viewpoints and needs to be considered, making it easier to find common ground.

Local governments have the power to address specific community needs, making citizens feel more connected to their government.

The potential for conflict between national and state governments when they disagree on issues.

Unequal distribution of resources and power between states, leading to disparities in services and opportunities.

The difficulty of enacting consistent policies across the country due to diverse state laws and regulations.

The possibility of one level of government overstepping its authority and encroaching on the powers of another.

The ability of different levels of government (federal, state, and local) to work together to achieve policy goals. If one level fails, another level can try to address the issue.

The system of government in the United States where power is divided between the national government and state governments. Each level has its own responsibilities and authority.

The practice of actively participating in shaping public policy by individuals, groups, and social movements. They can influence government actions at different levels through voting, organizing, and lobbying.

The large number of elected officials in the US, exceeding 500,000. This system provides opportunities for involvement at various levels of government.

The common path for political careers in the US often starts at the local level and progresses towards higher levels. Many politicians first gain experience in their communities before seeking higher office.

The power of state and local governments to address issues based on their unique needs and preferences.

Policies that are consistent across all states, often enforced by the federal government.

The process where different branches of government (e.g., legislative, executive, judicial) limit each other's power.

Differences in how states approach issues like abortion, alcohol, gun control, and welfare benefits based on their own values and priorities.

When the federal government prevents states from implementing policies that differ from national standards.

The potential for conflict between different levels of government (federal, state, local) when they have overlapping powers.

Benefits of federalism such as addressing local issues, diverse policies, and a system of checks and balances.

The legal challenge to a key provision of the Voting Rights Act of 1965 that allowed federal oversight of nine states with a history of racial discrimination in voting. The Supreme Court struck down this provision in 2013, effectively reducing federal involvement in ensuring fair elections.

The theory that state legislatures have unrestricted power to set election rules, without any federal or judicial oversight. This theory was rejected by the Supreme Court in 2023, confirming that state election laws are subject to judicial review.

Federal law known as the Affordable Care Act aimed at making health insurance accessible to more Americans. This law faced numerous challenges - both political and legal - immediately after its enactment.

A concept that state governments can experiment with new laws and policies without direct interference from the federal government. This has implications for the evolution of policies on issues like healthcare and voting laws.

The impact of the Supreme Court ruling in Moore v. Harper, stating that state legislatures are not entirely free to create voting regulations without judicial review. It maintains the federal government's role in preventing unfair or discriminatory voting practices.

States competing to attract businesses by offering lower taxes and regulations, often at the expense of worker safety and social programs.

The idea that differences in state resources and policies can lead to unequal opportunities and outcomes for citizens.

The difficulty of enacting consistent national policies due to varying state laws and regulations.

States using lower taxes and regulations to attract businesses, often at the cost of worker protections and social welfare.

The potential for states to undermine national policy efforts by pursuing their own agendas, especially in areas like healthcare and education.

States reducing taxes and regulations to attract businesses, which can lead to lower wages, reduced worker protections, and underfunded social programs.

The Supreme Court striking down President Roosevelt's efforts to address the Great Depression, highlighting the challenges of implementing nationwide policy.

The idea that states can experiment with different policies, potentially generating lessons and best practices for other states and the federal government.