Which clause was expanded by McCulloch v. Maryland, supporting federal power?

The Necessary and Proper Clause was expanded by the Supreme Court in the landmark case McCulloch v. Maryland in 1819. This clause grants Congress the authority to make all laws that are necessary and proper for carrying out its enumerated powers. In this case, the Court upheld the federal government’s ability to create a national bank, asserting that this action was an implied power under the Necessary and Proper Clause.

The ruling established that the federal government possesses powers beyond those explicitly listed in the Constitution, as long as they are related to the execution of an enumerated power. This broad interpretation significantly enhanced federal authority, affirming the supremacy of federal laws over state laws when there is a conflict. Consequently, the decision reinforced the federal government’s ability to operate effectively and adapt as necessary, which has had a lasting impact on the balance of power between federal and state governments.