For this chapter’s discussion, it again comes in two sections. For the first part of the discussion, briefly describe the models of Federalism, systems of authority, and the “Iron Triangle”.
Next, consider the description of the expansion (or contraction) of federalism under our last few presidents – Reagan, Bush I, Clinton, and Bush II. The text leaves off with what it presumes to be the legacy of George W. Bush with regards to intergovernmental relations. Since this text was constructed, the United States had eight years of the Obama administration and four years of the Trump administration. We also saw a significant amount of friction between the federal and state levels of government over the last several months, with significant pressure from some federal authorities to alter or overturn election certifications in states, and several states attempting to thwart the vote certification of other states.
What do you think the legacy of the Obama administration will be with regards to federalism and intergovernmental relations? What models of authority or federalism will the Obama administration be known for? Finally, what do you predict President Trump’s effect on federalism will be now that his term of office has concluded (with today, perhaps fittingly, being Inauguration Day)? Provide an example or two to support your answer.