the national congress's powers over the states were specific and definite: it had the sole power to negotiate treaties, declare war, and make peace. all powers not granted to congress were reserved for state governments. congress had no power to levy taxes, for example.
there are many ways of getting involved on your local party. attached you will find the brochure that describes some ideas: go ahead and visit your local hq, become a volunteer on your comnunity or struggle up for your own ideas so you can make them real.