Ideology and Support for Federalism in Theory—And in Practice.

This article examines the differing attitudes of conservatives and liberals toward federalism, defined as the devolution of power to state and local governments. Using multiple national surveys, including the 2020 Congressional Election Study, it finds that conservatives exhibit a stronger and more principled commitment to federalism, often supporting state and local control even when it conflicts with their policy preferences. In contrast, liberals tend to adopt a more instrumental approach, favoring whichever level of government—federal or state—best advances their policy goals. The study attributes conservatives' attachment to federalism to ideological foundations emphasizing states' rights, trust in smaller governments, and psychological preferences for less complexity, while also noting that racial attitudes partially influence these views. Overall, the article highlights that conservatives' support for federalism is more consistent and principle-driven, whereas liberals' support is more contingent and pragmatic.