What is the Supremacy Clause?

• A. It states that the Constitution, federal laws, and treaties take precedence over state laws.
• B. It gives states final authority on most matters.
• C. It requires presidents to consult state legislatures.
• D. It allows treaties to override the Constitution.

Answer: (A)

The Supremacy Clause establishes that federal authority can override state rules to maintain a single national legal framework. Located in Article VI, it declares that the Constitution itself is the supreme law, and that federal laws and treaties made under the Constitution are also the supreme law of the land. Judges in every state are bound by this, which means a state law cannot contradict a federal law or a valid treaty. When such conflicts occur, the federal provision governs, ensuring uniform national standards. Treaties are included in this hierarchy as supreme law, provided they are enacted under the Constitution’s authority and remain within its constitutional limits.