State Powers examines the ever-evolving balance between state and federal governments in the U.S., a dynamic impacting crucial areas like healthcare and environmental policy. Understanding this balance is key to navigating American governance.

The book explores the historical roots of federalism, highlighting how events like the Civil War and the New Deal redefined state and federal power. It also delves into ongoing legal and political battles, revealing the tensions between state autonomy and national unity.

The book argues that this balance is a constantly negotiated compromise shaped by political ideologies and economic forces. Landmark Supreme Court cases, like McCulloch v. Maryland, are analyzed to illustrate the judiciary's role in mediating disputes.

Ultimately, State Powers offers a comprehensive understanding of American federalism, providing insights into contemporary policy debates and the future of federalism in an interconnected nation. The book progresses by first establishing theoretical foundations, then analyzing landmark Supreme Court cases, and finally examining contemporary policy debates.