What does the Tenth Amendment state?

The Tenth Amendment of the United States Constitution specifically addresses the distribution of power between the federal government and the states. It states that any powers not specifically delegated to the federal government by the Constitution are reserved for the states and the people. This amendment reinforces the principle of federalism, emphasizing that states have their own rights and powers that the federal government cannot infringe upon unless explicitly stated in the Constitution. Therefore, recognizing that unassigned powers belong to the states is crucial for maintaining a balance of authority, ensuring that state governments have the ability to govern their own affairs without federal overreach. This foundational aspect of the Tenth Amendment is key in understanding the limits of federal power and the autonomy of state governments within the American political system.