In the midst of another contentious presidential election, partisans on either side predict doom if the opposing candidate wins. Elections are important, but transitions in presidential power don’t usually cause the dramatic changes to national character or day-to-day life that voters may fear. This is thanks to our system of federalism, a principle to which voters and leaders of all ideologies should recommit.
Federalism is the principle that lawmaking power is apportioned to both the federal and state governments. This essential part of the genius of the Constitution is a feature, not a bug, and it limits the direct impact of any one presidential election on our lives. By specifically listing the powers granted to the federal government, it constrains national power and reserves the majority of authority to levels of government closer to those who will be governed or to the people themselves.
