Who first coined the term "New Federalism"?

The term "New Federalism" was first coined by Richard Nixon during his presidency in the late 1960s and early 1970s. This concept represented a shift in the balance of power between the federal government and the states, advocating for greater state autonomy and a reduction of federal control over various programs and funding. Nixon’s approach sought to devolve certain powers and responsibilities back to the states, which aligned with the Republican philosophy of decentralization in governance.

Understanding this historical context enhances comprehension of how presidential administrations have influenced the structure of federalism in the United States. Subsequent presidents, while commenting on or implementing federalism-related policies, did not originate the term or the foundational concepts associated with it.