Which of the following powers is Congress authorized to exercise?

• A. Lay and collect taxes, pay debts, borrow money, and coin money.
• B. Declare war and make treaties.
• C. Grant pardons and appoint judges.
• D. Regulate interstate commerce.

Answer: (A)

The main idea is understanding which powers the Constitution explicitly assigns to Congress, especially those tied to finance and money. The Constitution gives Congress the authority to lay and collect taxes, pay the debts, borrow money, and coin money. These are fundamental fiscal and monetary powers that Congress alone handles, forming the backbone of how the government raises revenue and manages the currency. The other options mix powers that belong to the President or require ongoing collaboration (like treaties or appointing judges) or describe broader powers (such as regulating interstate commerce) that, while also granted to Congress, don’t form the clear, self-contained bundle of congressional fiscal powers illustrated in the correct choice. So the best answer highlights the explicit fiscal and monetary authorities granted to Congress.