Federal Power

Definition

The authority granted to the federal government by the U.S. Constitution which allows it to make decisions and take actions that affect issues on a national scale.

Related terms

Enumerated Powers: The powers specifically listed in the Constitution that are granted to the federal government.

Supremacy Clause: A clause in the Constitution that establishes that federal laws take precedence over conflicting state laws.

Elastic Clause (Necessary and Proper Clause): A clause in the Constitution that gives Congress the power to make all laws necessary and proper for carrying out its enumerated powers.