The Picket Fence Metaphor Is an Apt Description of Current

question 71

Multiple Choice

The picket fence metaphor is an apt description of current American federalism because:

• A) there are distinct differences between state and federal governments
• B) it takes money to make policy, just like it does to build a fence
• C) policy makers mainly interact with others in the same policy area, regardless of whether they are federal or state employees
• D) chief executives (mayors, governors, the president) have few powers over federalism
• E) the state and federal governments have clear boundaries, much like two fences on separate properties

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Definitions:

Federal Government Spending

Expenditures by the federal government on goods, services, and obligations, including defense, welfare, and public works.

Federal Income Tax

A tax levied by the U.S. federal government on individuals and entities based on their annual income, with rates that vary by income level.

Payroll Tax

A tax imposed on employers and employees, calculated as a percentage of the wages that employers pay their staff.

Federal Receipts

Revenue collected by the federal government, generally through taxes and fees.