Describe the character of federal–state relations today. How much influence does the federal government wield over the states? What tools can it use to coerce state compliance with federal measures? What means do states have to resist federal initiatives?

The modern Federalism today is more of a coercive federalism which is a form of federalism in which the Federal arm of government pressure the states government to change their policies by using various method like withdrawing of Funds,override the states power,regulation etc. This form of Federalism started in the 1960's which was characterizes by the substantial increase and growth in the power of the Federal government compared to the state government power.

The framers of the constitutions separate powers sharing between the states and the federal government, the states and the federal government have both concurrent and exclusive powers which helps to balance the share of power between them. According to the constitution,it was clearly written that welfare of the citizen of a state and day-to-day activities is the responsibility of the state government and not the federal government

The Federal government should only assist and encourage the adoption of good policies at the state level through Federal aid programs.

However, today to some extent the power balance between the states and federal government are now intertwined.

How much influence does the federal government wield over the states?

To great extent, the exclusive power of the Federal government has transcended it extent as written in the constitution. The exclusive power of the federal government includes: Conducting foreign affair, declaring war, raising armies, coining money, regulating the mail,regulating interstate and foreign commerce etc. the power of the federal government help the nation to operate as a unified nation.

What tools can it use to coerce state compliance with federal measures?

Federal government can coerce states compliance by withdrawing aids, funding, providing funds based on conditions and incentive, imposing its mandate to carry out certain policies.

What means do states have to resist federal initiatives?

States government has been fighting back against the encroachment of it powers by the federal government by resisting certain policies.

States can sue the federal government example Texas vs United states

States has the power to conduct all election processes even the presidential elections and might vote out government representative through fair election process.

They might refuse to initiate certain policies or program .