The Role Of Federalism In The United States

Federalism is a form of government controlled by two levels of government. In the United States, there is a federalist government, which consists of a national government and governments for the states. The national government creates laws that all fifty states must follow and the local governments create laws custom to the state. “Federalism has the virtue of retaining local pride, traditions and power, while allowing a central government that can handle common problems.” (Federalism) Speed limit, gas prices and housing are examples of laws created by a local government. For instance, the speed limit is set to a certain speed in one state but may change when entering another state. Each state has the power to set the speed limit to the speed the state wants. The state government creates laws specific to the state, and the national
The three branches of government are the legislative, executive and judicial, which all hold different functions and responsibilities. The legislative branch passes laws, the executive branch enforces laws and the judicial branch interprets laws. The United States President works in the executive branch, but the powers of being president is limited by the legislative and judicial. The president has the power to appoint justices, but needs the approval of Congress. The president cannot declare war, only the Congress can declare war. With a majority vote, the Congress can override the president’s veto to a law. “Congress rejected President Bush's veto of legislation protecting doctors from a 10.6 percent cut in their reimbursement rates when treating Medicare patients. The override vote in the House was a lopsided 383-41, easily meeting the two-thirds threshold needed to nullify the president's veto.” (Congress) The president is restricted heavily by the other two branches in order to keep balance and avoid explosive