What legal principle is primarily upheld by the Supremacy Clause?

The Supremacy Clause, found in Article VI, Clause 2 of the U.S. Constitution, establishes that federal laws take precedence over state laws. This clause is fundamental to the framework of American federalism, as it ensures that when there is a conflict between state and federal law, federal law must be followed. This principle is crucial for maintaining a consistent legal system across the United States and for preventing individual states from enacting laws that would undermine federal legislation or constitutional rights.

The inclination of the Supremacy Clause to establish federal law as the supreme law of the land underscores the importance of a unified legal system to uphold the Constitution, treaties made under its authority, and all laws made in accordance with it. This ensures that citizens have the same rights and obligations, regardless of the state in which they reside, thus promoting national unity and coherence in legal standards across states.