What kind of power did Congress receive from McCulloch v Maryland?

The ruling in McCulloch v. Maryland established the principle of implied powers, which are not explicitly listed in the Constitution but are necessary for Congress to effectively carry out its expressed powers. The case revolved around the question of whether Congress had the authority to create a national bank and whether a state could tax that bank. The Supreme Court determined that the Necessary and Proper Clause grants Congress the ability to pass laws needed to fulfill its enumerated powers, thus recognizing that Congress could take actions that are not specifically mentioned in the Constitution, as long as they are in support of its expressed powers.

This decision underscored the elastic nature of Congress's authority, allowing for a broader interpretation of its powers. It also reinforced the supremacy of federal laws over state laws, emphasizing that states cannot interfere with or tax legitimate activities of the federal government. The recognition of implied powers means that Congress has the latitude to adapt to changing needs and circumstances, aligning with the intent of the framers to create a flexible governing structure.