Federalism represents the fundamental division of power between the federal government and states, serving as a core animating feature of American government since the Revolution. Dr. Sean Beienburg explores how this constitutional principle works, its history, and why it remains crucial in today's polarized political environment.
• Federalism means power is divided, with most authority remaining with states rather than the central government
• The Constitution grants "few and defined" powers to the federal government while states retain "numerous and indefinite" powers
• The 10th Amendment reinforces that powers not given to the federal government remain with the states or the people
• Federalism has been championed by both progressives and conservatives throughout American history
• States cannot nullify federal laws but can decline to help enforce them
• Federal law is only supreme when the Constitution grants that specific power to the federal government
• Federalism limits tyranny, increases government responsiveness, and accommodates America's diverse political preferences
• In an era of polarization, federalism allows states to pursue different policies without forcing uniformity
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