The supremacy clause of the constitution says that the federal government wins all conflicts with lower governments. The 10th amendment states powers not explic

The supremacy clause of the constitution says that the federal government wins all conflicts with lower governments. The 10th amendment states powers not explicitly granted (i.e. claimed) in the constitution for the federal government are reserved for the states or people. There is not actual competition in the system, even if it is complex and messy in implementation.