The Struggle Between State and Federal Responsibilities: Same Sex Marriage

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Federalism refers to the system of government in which power is split between a national government and a state government as is defined by a constitution. The overarching purpose of such a government is to grant each level their own equal sovereign and independent powers in an overall effort to eliminate too large of a control by one level. One of the major requirements of this style of government is that each level has the independent authority to pass laws - this gives states the ability to maintain a sense of identification and independence from the federal government and allows laws to differ across state borders. The United States upholds a, generally, successful form of federalism seeing as it has two major branches of government with their own purposes as well as a constitution that is followed as well as possible. Arguably, the most important thing that the branches of American government can do is to follow the constitution, as the nation would not properly function without it. Overall, the constitution most speaks to the national government in terms of what they are allotted to do. While the constitution creates a sort of framework for the national government, the Tenth Amendment (as was ratified in 1791) grants any power that is not directly granted in writing to the federal government in the constitution, to the states. The concept of federalism can aid in eradicating disputes over some ethical issues by granting power to a specific level without any problems. However the constitution, being vaguely worded, can leave much to be interpreted and therefore there can be misunderstandings and controversy over whether the federal or state government has the jurisdiction over certain events. Be that as it may, according to t...

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...he the Due Process Clause and the Equal Protection Clause, banning same-sex marriage is completely unconstitutional and furthermore so is the Defense of Marriage Act. One of the greatest aspects of America is its promise to provide equality to all of its citizens and this is being compromised by the Defense of Marriage Act. In addition we must not forget that it is in each individual state’s rights to determine laws that are not previously stated in the constitution, and marriage is nowhere defined in it. When same-sex marriage is accepted in all states, America can move on with further upholding its standards of federalism and equality, and the promise of life, liberty and property to all citizens. Our country cannot be as prosperous and successful as we want it to be if we do not abide by the laws we set for ourselves - we are nothing if we are not constitutional.

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