The United States, compared to countries like France, does not have a very strong central government. For example, public education in the United States is almost wholly within the domain of local government. In a two- to three-page paper (in addition to a title and references page), analyze the balance of power in our federal system.

Consider the following questions in a cohesive analysis: Should Washington have greater power to dictate national policy in modern times? Should the federal government be able to override state policies? Should the Constitution be amended to entrust greater powers to Washington DC and less power to the states? Why or why not?

In a two-to three page paper (not including title and references pages), identify a public agency – either at the local, state, or federal levels – that has undergone significant change in the last 25 years. You may choose an agency that you have had personal experience with, or you may choose a public agency that you are familiar with from the news or from academic study. Assess the scope of services provided to the public by that agency or department, the growth of the agency in question, or the quality levels of customer service provided by the agency. Discuss the reasons why that agency has changed in this area over the last 25 years, and speculate on the future direction of that agency in the years ahead.