Identify which of the following is a power that is exercised by both the national and state governments under the
U.S. system of federalism. (1 point)
• the power to tax
• the power to declare war
• the power to make treaties with other nations
• the power to regulate interstate trade
The power to tax is a power that is exercised by both the national and state governments under the U.S. system of federalism.
To identify which of the following powers is exercised by both the national and state governments under the U.S. system of federalism, we need to understand the division of powers between them.
In the United States, federalism is a system of government where power is shared between a central (national) government and individual state governments. Certain powers are specifically assigned to the national government, while others are reserved for the states.
Let's analyze the given powers one by one:
1. The power to tax: This power is exercised by both the national and state governments. Both levels of government have the authority to impose and collect taxes from their citizens. However, there are some limitations on the states' ability to tax certain areas, such as imports and exports.
2. The power to declare war: This power is exclusively held by the national government. The Constitution grants the power to declare war to Congress, which is part of the national government.
3. The power to make treaties with other nations: This power is exclusively held by the national government. The Constitution grants the power to make treaties to the President, with the advice and consent of the Senate. States do not have the authority to enter into treaties with foreign nations.
4. The power to regulate interstate trade: This power is exclusively held by the national government. The Constitution grants the power to regulate interstate trade to Congress through the Commerce Clause. This means that only the national government can establish rules and regulations that govern economic activities that cross state boundaries.
Based on the analysis, the only power exercised by both the national and state governments under the U.S. system of federalism is the power to tax. Therefore, the correct answer is "the power to tax."