Congress under the “necessary and proper” clause has __________.

Question

a. expanded the role of the national government relative to that of the states

b. increased the powers of the state governments at the expense of Congress’ powers

c. limited their own ability to amend the Constitution

d. served to limit the expansion of national authority

e. restricted the ability of the president to veto legislation

Answer 1

Hi Angela,

Yes, A. is the answer you are looking for.

Answer 2

Yes, A. Interestingly, there are a handful of clauses in the Constitution or its amendments that make very general statements that are used to justify actions that aren't specifically authorized by the Constitution. Besides "necessary and proper" (you can see how it works --the Constitution doesn't mention climate but Congress can say regulating coal emissions or set gas mileage standards, for example, is "necessary and proper" to promote the general welfare, which IS in the Constitution.

Another one is the "interstate commerce clause." Also, the concepts of "due process of law" and "equal protection," contained in the 14th amendment.