Which powers may be exercised by both the federal and state governments?

The correct answer is concurrent powers, which refer to the abilities that are shared by both the federal and state governments. This means that both levels of government can exercise these powers simultaneously, allowing for a more cooperative governance structure. Examples of concurrent powers include the ability to tax, build roads, establish lower courts, and create and enforce laws.

This sharing of powers is crucial in a federal system, as it ensures that both the national and state governments can operate effectively within their respective jurisdictions while also working together in areas where their responsibilities overlap. Understanding concurrent powers helps clarify how the U.S. government is designed to balance authority between different levels of government, ensuring that both can contribute to the governance of the country.

The other categories of powers don't share this characteristic; reserved powers are exclusive to the states, enumerated powers are specifically granted to the federal government, and exclusive powers are those that can only be exercised by either the federal or state governments but not both.