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Correct Answer: two
the spending clause, found in article i, section 8, clause 1 of the united states constitution, grants congress the power to levy taxes for specific purposes. this clause is critical in understanding the scope and limitations of federal fiscal powers. specifically, the spending clause states that congress has the authority to collect taxes, duties, imposts, and excises, to pay the debts and provide for the common defense and general welfare of the united states. this has been interpreted to mean that congress can levy taxes for essentially two broad purposes.
firstly, the clause allows congress to levy taxes to pay the debts of the united states. this provision ensures that the federal government can raise funds necessary to meet its existing financial obligations. this includes servicing national debt accrued through loans and other financial instruments. it is an essential function that supports the financial stability and creditworthiness of the government.
secondly, the spending clause authorizes congress to levy taxes to provide for the common defense and general welfare of the country. this aspect is particularly broad and encompasses a wide range of governmental activities. funding the military and defense infrastructure falls under "providing for the common defense," while "general welfare" can include various public services and programs, such as education, healthcare, infrastructure, and social services.
together, these two authorized purposes form the backbone of the federal government's fiscal power, often referred to as the "spending power." this power is fundamental to the operation of the government as it encompasses the financial mechanisms through which the government fulfills its roles and responsibilities. the broad interpretation of "general welfare" has allowed successive governments to justify various spending and taxing measures under this clause, although such measures are sometimes subject to political and legal debates regarding their constitutionality and alignment with the intentions of the framers of the constitution.
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