Based on the Supremacy Clause, what must a judge support in the event of a legal conflict?

A. State law over federal law

B. City law over state law

C. The Constitution over state law

D. The president's opinion over the Constitution

Answer

The correct answer is C. The Constitution over state law.

Explanation:

The Supremacy Clause is found in Article VI, Clause 2 of the United States Constitution. It establishes that the Constitution, and federal laws made pursuant to it, take precedence over state laws and constitutions. This means that in the event of a legal conflict between state law and federal law, or between state law and the Constitution, the judge must support the Constitution and federal law, as they hold higher authority.

A. State law over federal law: This is incorrect because, according to the Supremacy Clause, federal law supersedes state law.

B. City law over state law: This is also incorrect because city laws are generally subordinate to state laws.

D. The president's opinion over the Constitution: This is incorrect as well. The president's opinions do not hold legal authority over the Constitution; rather, the Constitution governs all branches of government, including the executive branch.

Thus, when faced with a conflict between state law and federal law or the Constitution, judges are obligated to uphold the Constitution as the supreme law of the land.