Policy patchwork
Abortion, guns, voting rules, and marijuana law differ dramatically by state because of federalism.
In plain English
Federalism is the rulebook for which level of government — Washington or your state — gets to decide what.
Example
Marijuana policy shows federalism in action: many states have legalized it while it remains prohibited under federal law.
Why it matters
What the term actually changes.
Laboratories of democracy
States can test policies before they go national — and serve as checks when one party controls Washington.
How it works
The mechanics, in practice.
Enumerated powers
The federal government holds the powers the Constitution lists; the Tenth Amendment reserves the rest to states.
Supremacy & preemption
Valid federal law overrides conflicting state law — so the fights are over what federal power validly covers.
Related guide
What is judicial review?
Judicial review is the power American courts use to decide whether a law or government action violates the Constitution.
Read the guide → Related issue brief
Should the Senate eliminate the filibuster?
The filibuster lets 41 senators block most legislation by refusing to end debate. Supporters say it protects minority rights. Critics say it makes Congress incapable of acting.
Read the brief →You’ve learned the term. Now vote.
Should the United States expand nuclear power to address climate change?
Live results — 186 voters
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America has spoken.
Live community results — based on 186 anonymous votes.
See the full breakdown — by state and political lean