Legislative Branch - Expressed Powers

During the period before the ratification of the U.S. Constitution, the expanse of congressional powers were contested by Federalists and Antifederalists who held contrasting beliefs about congressional actions that could be taken beyond those expressly granted by clause 8. Article I, Section 8 of the U.S. Constitution specifically lists a set of expressed powers to Congress. This section effectively grants permission to Congress on matters in which it can regulate through law. For example, Congress has the sole power to declare war, among other responsibilities such as the power to tax, spend money, issue patents, and to establish post offices, courts, and currency.