The Challenges of Federalism
Under federalism, the many governmental tiers do not operate effectively. The existence of numerous power centers increases the likelihood of conflict. For instance, marijuana use is now legal in the state of Washington. The federal government, meanwhile, is opposed to the drug's legalization. As a result, lengthy negotiations between the federal and local governments are necessary without compromising the state's authority.
Under federalism, the various levels of government perform the same tasks. Policies clash with how services are delivered and overlap. Federalism hinders the responsibility of each level of government for policy outcomes thus citizens cannot hold public officials to account. The federal government duplicates policies originally intended for the states; thus states do not have the freedom to control their policies. For instance, the state of Arizona has its policies to regulate immigration, while at the same time the federal government has set out immigration policies. Such duplication of policy sometimes calls for the intervention of the Supreme Court.
Difference between Violence and Protest
We distinguish protest and violence in many ways. Those who pursue protest do not have the intention to do physical harm. Protests are supposed to be peaceful, and those who participate in protest should be unarmed. Under protest, people express their views freely and enjoy protection from the law enforcement agencies. The law allows people to protest. On the other hand, Individuals pursuing violence either make open threats or carry out violence so as to produce fear. Violence involves aggression and damage to property since its participants are armed. The law prohibits violence thus individuals participating in it do not receive protection from the state.
Liberals and Conservatives on the Policy of Grants in Aid
Conservatives support lower grants in aid and even the discontinuation of grants in aid. The argument is that government intervention through grants in aids discourages competitive capitalism and the free market system. The grants in aid act as a disincentive for people to work, save, invest, and engage in entrepreneurial endeavors. On the other hand, liberals support increased grants in aid based on the belief that such aids are in the public interest. They argue that governmental action through grants in aid helps to achieve equal equality and opportunity for all, and that it is the responsibility of the State to alleviate social ills and to protect civil liberties through grants in aid (Dwyer, 2010). Liberals believe that it is the role of the government to guarantee that no one is in need by issuing grants in aid.
Factors Affecting Voter Turnout in States and Local Elections
Economic factors such as unemployment affect voter turnout. When facing financial hardships, such as unemployment, voters may not come out in large numbers. On the other hand, individuals that are employed either in the private sector or are in the civil service turn out to vote. The level of education that a voter has attained affects voter turnout. Those with a bachelor's degree vote in large numbers as compared with high school graduates. Individuals who are married and their spouse are present are more likely to vote as compared to those that are unmarried, divorced and separated.
Whites vote in large numbers as compared to blacks, Asians, and other races. Also, individuals who are Native Americans turn out to vote in large numbers as compared to naturalized Americans. Age group determines voter turnout. The reported number of voters aged between 18 to 34 years is much lower as compared to those that are between 45 to 64 years. Also, individuals who are 65 years of age and older vote in larger numbers when compared to those who are between 35 to 44 years.
References
Dwyer, P. (2010). Understanding social citizenship: Themes and perspectives for policy and practice. Policy Press.
Dye, T. R., & Macmanus, S. A. (2015). Politics in States and Communities (15th Ed.). Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson.
