Part A: How did the New Deal increase federal powers?

The New Deal was a series of domestic programs and policies implemented by President Franklin D. Roosevelt during the 1930s in response to the Great Depression. One of the significant ways the New Deal increased federal powers was through its expansion of the role and authority of the federal government in various aspects of American life. Here are a few key ways in which the New Deal increased federal powers:

1. Expansion of Regulatory Agencies: The New Deal established several regulatory agencies to oversee various industries and sectors of the economy. For example, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) was created to regulate the securities industry and protect investors. The National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) was established to oversee labor relations and ensure fair practices.
2. Social Welfare Programs: The New Deal introduced social welfare programs aimed at providing assistance to those in need. Programs like Social Security and unemployment insurance were created to provide a safety net for individuals during times of economic hardship, which required federal oversight and administration.
3. Banking and Financial Reforms: The New Deal enacted significant reforms in the banking and financial sectors to stabilize the economy and prevent another financial collapse. The Glass-Steagall Act, for example, separated commercial and investment banking activities and established the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) to insure bank deposits and prevent bank runs.
4. Infrastructure and Public Works: The New Deal invested in infrastructure projects such as roads, bridges, dams, and public buildings through programs like the Works Progress Administration (WPA) and the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC). These projects required federal funding and oversight.
5. Agricultural Policies: The New Deal aimed to stabilize the agricultural sector through programs like the Agricultural Adjustment Act (AAA), which provided subsidies to farmers and regulated production. These policies involved federal control over agricultural practices and markets.
6. Labor Rights and Fair Practices: The New Deal’s labor-related policies, including the establishment of minimum wage and maximum hour regulations, expanded federal authority in the realm of labor relations and employment practices.
7. Federal Housing Programs: The New Deal initiated housing programs to address housing shortages and improve living conditions. The Federal Housing Administration (FHA) provided federal guarantees for home loans, leading to increased federal involvement in housing finance.

Part B: How does the federal government make states follow federal guidelines?

The federal government ensures that states follow federal guidelines through a combination of constitutional provisions, legislation, regulations, and funding mechanisms. Here are some key ways the federal government exerts influence over states to ensure compliance with federal guidelines:

1. Constitutional Authority: The Supremacy Clause of the U.S. Constitution (Article VI, Clause 2) establishes that federal law is the supreme law of the land, and state laws must conform to federal law. This means that if a federal law and a state law conflict, the federal law takes precedence.
2. Federal Legislation: Congress can pass laws that establish federal guidelines in various areas, such as civil rights, environmental protection, education, and healthcare. States are required to adhere to these laws or risk legal consequences.
3. Regulations: Federal agencies are tasked with creating and enforcing regulations that provide detailed instructions on how federal laws are to be implemented. States must follow these regulations when implementing federal programs or policies.
4. Conditional Funding: The federal government often provides funding to states for various programs and services, such as education, transportation, and healthcare. This funding comes with conditions attached, requiring states to comply with specific federal guidelines and regulations in exchange for the funds.
5. Legal Action: The federal government can take legal action against states that fail to comply with federal guidelines. This can involve lawsuits brought by the federal government against non-compliant states, resulting in court orders to enforce compliance.
6. Withholding Funds: In some cases, the federal government can withhold funds from states that do not adhere to federal guidelines. This approach is often used as leverage to encourage states to comply with federal requirements.
7. Interstate Compacts: In certain situations, states can enter into agreements known as interstate compacts, with the approval of Congress. These compacts allow states to coordinate efforts and create uniform policies across state lines.
8. Judicial Review: Courts, including the U.S. Supreme Court, have the authority to review state laws and actions to determine their constitutionality and alignment with federal guidelines. Court decisions can establish legal precedent and shape state behavior.

In summary, the federal government employs a range of mechanisms to ensure that states follow federal guidelines, including constitutional authority, legislation, regulations, funding conditions, legal action, and judicial oversight. These measures collectively help maintain a balance between federal and state powers while ensuring the consistent application of federal laws and policies across the nation.