Key Features of the US Constitution

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Codified Constitution

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The US Constitution is a collected and authoritative set of rules for American government and politics, consisting of 7 articles. The first 3 articles explain the functioning and powers of the three branches of government.

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Implied Powers

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Powers of the federal government not explicitly mentioned in the Constitution but are reasonably implied from the delegated powers, such as the power to levy and collect taxes for defense.

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Reserved Powers

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Powers reserved for the states or the people, limiting federal government power. Stated in the 10th Amendment.

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Concurrent Powers

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Powers shared by federal and state governments, such as collecting taxes, building roads, and maintaining courts.

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Entrenched Provisions

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Provisions in the US Constitution that are difficult to amend, requiring a complicated system and supermajorities, providing special protection.

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Vesting Clause (Legislative)

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All legislative powers are vested in the US Congress, consisting of a Senate and House of Representatives.

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Origination Clause

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All bills for raising revenue must originate in the House of Representatives, but the Senate may propose or concur with amendments.

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Necessary and Proper Clause

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Congress has the power to make all laws necessary and proper for executing its powers and those vested in the US government.

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Tax and Spending Clause

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Congress has the power to levy and collect taxes, duties, imports, and excises to pay debts and provide for the common defense and general welfare of the US.

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War Clause

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Congress has the power to declare war, grant letters of marque, and make rules concerning captures on land and water.