Last week, I wrote about the top five reasons why the U.S. Constitution should be revered. This week, let’s explore another five reasons why we should be grateful for – and act to safeguard – the Constitution.
6). Federalism. The Constitution divides up the people’s sovereignty between two different spheres: the state and federal governments. By reserving all powers not enumerated to the states or to the people, federalism empowers the states to enact policies in light of local circumstances. The states can ensure better governance by tailoring policies to the facts on the ground as opposed to one-size-fits-all “solutions” from Washington, D.C. Federalism also empowers experimentation at the local level. People can move to states that are more compatible with their ideas of the good life. This strengthens the social compact by making state officials accountable for state policies. Additionally, federalism protects liberty by creating built-in tensions between the states and the federal government. Power is divided not just between the branches of government but between different levels of government. To have uniform, national oppression, would-be oppressors would need to take control of all three branches of the federal government, plus the three branches of governments of all 50 states – quite a tall order! The genius of dividing government vertically, as well as horizontally, is a vital protection of our liberty.
