Which of the following describes exclusive powers?

Exclusive powers refer specifically to those authorities that are granted solely to the national government by the Constitution. These powers are essential for maintaining the integrity and functionality of the federal system, allowing the national government to exercise its responsibilities effectively. Examples of exclusive powers include the ability to declare war, regulate interstate and international trade, and issue currency.

The other options do not accurately describe exclusive powers. Powers shared between the national government and states characterize concurrent powers, while powers specific only to state governments describe reserved powers. Powers granted to local governments are a separate category focused on the authority bestowed by state governments, which does not fall under exclusive powers at the national level. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for comprehending the structure of government power distribution in the United States.