While student answers to this question will vary, the topics of “carrot” and “stick” grants and the impact of categorical grants on state authority should be discussed. Students may also discuss the future need for financing such programs as education and infrastructure at the state level through the use of federal funds, which, in theory, would lead to increasing federal power. Students may also counter this argument with examples of devolution and the desire of states to take power from the national government and regain state authority over essential programs, particularly those in the areas of education, health care, and human services. This debate will continue to grow as we progress further into the 20th century.