In the case of United States v. McGowan, the Supreme Court addressed the issue of whether a federal law prohibiting the sale of certain goods applied to a specific situation involving McGowan. The case revolved around the interpretation of the law and its implications for commerce and individual rights. The Court ultimately ruled in favor of the government, affirming that the law was applicable in this instance. This decision highlighted the balance between federal authority and individual actions in the context of commerce and regulation.