What term describes the principle that states cannot nullify federal laws?

The principle that states cannot nullify federal laws is correctly described by the term "federal supremacy." This concept is rooted in the Supremacy Clause of the United States Constitution, which establishes that federal laws made pursuant to the Constitution take precedence over conflicting state laws. Essentially, it asserts that when state and federal laws clash, federal law prevails, ensuring a uniform legal framework across the country.

The concept of state sovereignty refers to the power of states to govern themselves and make their own laws without federal interference. While this acknowledges the authority of state governments, it does not provide for the nullification of federal laws.

Checks and balances describe the system implemented to ensure that no single branch of government becomes too powerful by giving each branch the means to limit the powers of the others. This concept is important in understanding the structure of the government, but it does not pertain specifically to the relationship between state and federal law.

Constitutionalism refers broadly to the adherence to a system of constitutional government and the rule of law, emphasizing the importance of a constitution in directing the government’s power. While this principle supports the concept of federal supremacy, it is not the specific term that defines the relationship regarding the nullification of federal laws by states.

Thus,