Which constitutional principle states that federal laws, treaties, and the Constitution take precedence over state laws?

• A. Separation of powers
• B. Checks and balances
• C. Supremacy Clause
• D. Federalism

Answer: (C)

Supremacy of federal law over state law is established by the Supremacy Clause. Found in Article VI, this clause says the Constitution, federal laws, and treaties are the supreme law of the land, and judges in every state must be bound by them even when state laws or constitutions conflict. This means that when federal law or a valid treaty contradicts a state rule, the federal provision wins. Treaties become part of federal law once ratified, so they can override conflicting state rules as long as they fall within the federal government’s constitutional authority. The other terms describe how government powers are organized and checked, but they do not establish this ultimate precedence of federal law.