Which clause gives Congress the authority to regulate commerce among the states?

The Commerce Clause grants Congress the authority to regulate commerce among the states. This clause is found in Article I, Section 8 of the U.S. Constitution and plays a critical role in enabling the federal government to oversee trade and economic activities that cross state lines. The power derived from the Commerce Clause has been the foundation for a significant amount of federal legislation and regulation, impacting a wide array of issues including trade practices, transportation, and even civil rights.

In particular, it permits Congress to address economic issues that may affect interstate commerce, thereby ensuring a more uniform and efficient market across state borders. This regulatory power is essential in preventing states from enacting laws that could hinder trade or create barriers to commerce, fostering a cohesive economic environment for the nation as a whole.

The other options, while relevant to different aspects of federalism and economic regulation, do not specifically provide Congress with the authority to regulate interstate commerce. The Supremacy Clause establishes the priority of federal law over state law, the Dormant Commerce Clause suggests that states cannot enact laws that excessively burden interstate commerce in the absence of federal regulation, and the Privileges and Immunities Clause protects the fundamental rights of interstate citizens but does not directly confer regulatory authority. Thus, the Commerce Clause is the clear