What does the supremacy clause assert?

The supremacy clause, found in Article VI, Clause 2 of the U.S. Constitution, asserts that the Constitution, along with federal laws made pursuant to it and treaties made under its authority, constitutes the supreme law of the land. This means that when there is a conflict between federal law and state law, federal law prevails. This foundational principle ensures a consistent legal framework across the United States, reinforcing the authority of the federal government while also outlining the limits of state power. Understanding this clause is essential for grasping the federal structure of the United States and the balance of powers between state and national governments.