Federalism and COVID-19: The Case for Federal Responsibility
School
South Broward High School**We aren't endorsed by this school
Course
BUSINESS 33310
Subject
Political Science
Date
Dec 12, 2024
Pages
4
Uploaded by kingloren07
Argumentative essay: Federalism The Coronavirus outbreak has indeed tested the effectiveness of the federal system in the United States, sparking a debate on whether the federal or state governments should bear the primary responsibility for responding to such crises. I argue that the federal government should be most responsible for responding to the Coronavirus outbreak. This is because a unified national response can ensure consistency, efficiency, and equitable resource distribution across all states.Firstly, the Constitution provides the federal government with the power to regulate interstate commerce, which includes managing public health crises that cross state lines. Article I, Section 8 of the Constitution grants Congress the authority to
regulate commerce among the states. During a pandemic, the movement of people and goods can contribute to the spread of the virus, making it essential for the federal government to implement nationwide measures to control the outbreak. This ensures a coordinated response that individual states may struggle to achieve independently.Secondly, Federalist 70, written by Alexander Hamilton, argues for a strong executive branch, emphasizing the need for a single, energetic executive to respond swiftly and decisively in times of crisis. Hamilton's argument supports the idea that the federal government, led by the President, is better equipped to handle emergencies like the Coronavirus outbreak. A strong federal response can mobilize resources quickly, implement uniform guidelines, and provide clear communication to the public, which is crucial in managing a pandemic effectively.
In contrast, some may argue that states should have the primary responsibility for responding to the outbreak, as they are more familiar with their local needs and can tailor their responses accordingly. However, this approach can lead to a fragmented response, with varying policies and levels of preparedness across states. Such inconsistencies can hinder efforts to control the virus and create confusion among the public. For example, differing quarantine measures or mask mandates between neighboring states can undermine efforts to contain the virus's spread.In conclusion, while some states are critical in addressing local aspects of the outbreak, the federal government should be most responsible for responding to the Coronavirus pandemic. The Constitution and Federalist 70 support a strong federal response, which ensures a cohesive and
efficient approach to managing the crisis. By centralizing the response, the federal government can provide the necessary resources and leadership to protect the health and safety of all Americans.