AMERICAN GOVERNMENT

AMERICAN GOVERNMENT

PLEASE ANSWER TWO FROM 7 OF THE FOLLOWING ESSAY QUESTIONS:

1. Discuss the reproductive rights debate. Discuss the opposing constitutional sides? Which side did the Roe v. Wade decision come closest to supporting? Which did the Webster decision come closest to supporting? Which side do you think should prevail? Which debate would argue is more contentious, the one over reproductive rights or, the right to die? Explain.

2. Discuss the debate over DOMA in this country. Consider the ethical and constitutional arguments on both sides. On the basis of that discussion, which side do you believe should have ultimately prevailed? Why? What would you say are the constitutional implications of the DOMA decision? Is this an example of federal overreach? Explain, one way or the other.

3. Approximately when did the transition occur from dual to cooperative federalism? What brought it about? What is the means used to sustain the cooperative relationship? Does cooperative federalism continue to exist today? Explain. Is the current trend moving in the direction of more or less cooperation? Explain. When did that trend commence? Explain. What would argue is the most appropriate direction the nation should take with regard to cooperative versus dual federalism in the next 12 months? Explain. Which direction is it likely to pursue, in your view? Explain.

4. President Obama and the Republican Party candidates for presidency quarreled over the first amendment and contraceptive coverage. Discuss the two positions. Which would you argue stands on the firmest ground constitutionally? Explain. Is this a matter better handled by Articles I of the constitution or Amendment X? Explain.

5. In the coming weeks the California State Legislature will consider a bill that would prohibit government employees from state-sponsored travel to states that are judged to be in violation of LGBT rights? Discuss your views on this legislation from ethical and constitutional perspectives. If this bill is enacted, do you imagine that it will be upheld by the federal courts? Why/why not? Would you support this legislation or not? Be sure to consider the aforementioned ethical and constitutional considerations in your answer.

6 Select any current event. Which level of government, federal or state, would you suggest has been the most influential for that issue? Explain. Which branch of government has been most influential? Which branch of government has responsibility for checking and balancing the one that you have selected? Explain. Has it been able to adequately perform that function? Why/why not? In assessing the level of effectiveness in checks and balancing be sure to consider that role that partisan politics might play in your assessment.

7. Discuss the Affordable Health Care Act. What effect does its enactment have on federal state relations? How do you imagine it came about? What would you suggest as a way to break the stalemate? Which side would you argue is on firmer ground constitutionally? Explain.