American federalism can be a sweeping political science lesson. That’s Francine Kiefer’s story today about California and the Trump administration preparing to do legal battle over whose vision will hold sway in the state. A fascinating graphic by Jacob Turcotte shows states holding their own against presidential power.

But American federalism can also be an intimate question of individual rights. That’s Henry Gass’ story today about a landmark Supreme Court case on transgender rights. Who determines what’s best for a child – the state, the federal government, or parents?

The two stories offer a portrait of the forces shaping American federalism.