The main difference between inherent and implied powers is that
A inherent powers can be traced to the powers expressed in the actual language of the Constitution, while implied powers derive from congressional laws and Supreme Court decisions.
B implied powers can be traced to the powers expressed in the actual language of the Constitution, while inherent powers derive from congressional laws and Supreme Court decisions.
C implied powers can be traced to the powers expressed in the actual language of the Constitution, while inherent powers derive from national sovereignty.
D inherent powers can be traced to the powers expressed in the actual language of the Constitution, while implied powers derive from national sovereignty.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
The correct answer is C: implied powers can be traced to the powers expressed in the actual language of the Constitution, while inherent powers derive from national sovereignty.
Explanation:
The concepts of inherent and implied powers are both related to the powers of the U.S. government, but they originate and are justified differently.
- Implied Powers:
These are powers that are not explicitly stated in the Constitution but are considered necessary to carry out the powers that are explicitly granted. The basis for implied powers is found in Article I, Section 8, specifically the Necessary and Proper Clause, also known as the Elastic Clause. This clause gives Congress the authority to make all laws that are “necessary and proper” for executing its enumerated (expressed) powers. For example, while the Constitution does not explicitly give Congress the power to create a national bank, this power is implied because it is deemed necessary to carry out Congress’s expressed powers related to taxation, currency, and borrowing. - Inherent Powers:
These are powers that are not explicitly stated in the Constitution, nor do they arise from the Necessary and Proper Clause. Instead, inherent powers are derived from the very nature of a sovereign state. In other words, these are powers that the government needs in order to function as a national government. These powers arise from the fact that the United States is a sovereign nation, and therefore, it must have certain powers to maintain its existence and carry out its responsibilities. An example of inherent powers is the ability of the government to control immigration or defend the nation from external threats.
In summary:
- Implied powers are derived from the expressed powers and are necessary to fulfill the constitutional duties of the government.
- Inherent powers are derived from the inherent sovereignty of the nation and are necessary for the survival of the nation.
Thus, option C is correct because implied powers are connected to the Constitution’s expressed powers, while inherent powers come from the nation’s sovereign status.