Question
Which of the following correctly explains how most local governments acquire their power?(1 point)
Responses
Local governments receive their power from the people who live within their boundaries.
Local governments receive their power from the people who live within their boundaries.
Local governments receive their power from Article II of the Constitution.
Local governments receive their power from Article II of the Constitution.
Local governments receive their power from Article I of the Constitution.
Local governments receive their power from Article I of the Constitution.
Local governments receive their power from their state governments.
Local governments receive their power from their state governments.
The correct answer is: Local governments receive their power from their state governments.
The correct explanation is: "Local governments receive their power from their state governments."
To arrive at this answer, first, we need to understand the structure of government in the United States. The U.S. operates under a federal system, where power is divided between the national government and state governments. In this system, local governments, such as cities, towns, or counties, derive their authority from state governments.
To find the specific answer among the given options, we can consider the different sources of power for local governments mentioned:
- Option 1: "Local governments receive their power from the people who live within their boundaries." While it is true that local governments derive their legitimacy from the consent of the governed, this answer does not capture the source of their actual power.
- Option 2: "Local governments receive their power from Article II of the Constitution." Article II of the U.S. Constitution addresses the powers and responsibilities of the executive branch, such as the President. It does not grant power directly to local governments.
- Option 3: "Local governments receive their power from Article I of the Constitution." Article I of the U.S. Constitution pertains to the legislative branch, including Congress. It, too, does not grant authority directly to local governments.
- Option 4: "Local governments receive their power from their state governments." This answer correctly identifies the source of power for local governments. In the U.S., state governments have the authority to create and empower local governments, delegating specific powers and responsibilities to them.
Therefore, the correct answer is option 4: "Local governments receive their power from their state governments."