State-Federal Controversies - Essay Example

Federalism Checks the Power of the Central Government The article discusses the issue on the advantages of adopting a federal form of government. Federalism is considered by the author as a way of checking the power of the national government (Bodenhamer). To note, in a federal government, the power of the government is shared between the local and national government (Bodenhamer). This goes to say that both of them have the authority to exercise the rights accorded by the U.S. constitution. America’s colonial history has affected the decision to adopt federalism.

The American people do not want to be governed by a single authority just like the past Britain rule. To be regulated at the state level is appropriate. In a federalist set-up, the local governments are given more autonomy. Autonomy is very important to them especially in implementing their own rules. Being autonomous means that the local governments (which refer to the different states in America) do not depend on the national government in terms of budget. The states could implement their own taxing laws as a source of their budget and they could use their income without asking permission from the national government.

Nevertheless, despite this freedom, the local governments are obliged to observe the American constitution. This means that they are free to make their own policies as long as it is in conformity with the letter and spirit of the constitution. The issue is important to consider since it talks about the type of government in America. It can enlighten the readers of the rationale behind the adoption of such governmental structure. I am grateful to the founders of the U.S. constitution for adopting federalism.

Work Cited Bodenhamer, David. Federalism Checks the Power of the Central Government. America.gov Archive, 2 Jan. 2007. Web. 4 Apr. 2011. .