U.S. Citizenship Civics TestPrinciples of American DemocracyMedium
An applicant for naturalization is asked about the concept of 'federalism.' Which statement accurately describes federalism in the United States?
- APower is divided between a national government and various state governments.
- BAll governmental power is concentrated in the national government.
- CThe states have absolute authority over the national government.
- DLocal governments operate independently with no oversight from state or national authorities.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Power is divided between a national government and various state governments.
Federalism is a system of government where power is constitutionally divided between a central (national) government and regional (state) governments, each having distinct spheres of authority.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. This option is incorrect; this describes a unitary system, not federalism.
- C. This option is incorrect; the national government has supremacy in certain areas, as per the Supremacy Clause.
- D. This option is incorrect; local governments are typically subordinate to state governments, and the national government has ultimate authority in its sphere.
Federalism
A system of government in which power is divided, by a constitution, between a central (national) government and regional (state) governments.
- Divides power between national and state governments.
- Each level has its own distinct powers.
- Aims to prevent tyranny and allow for local variation.
Memory trick: Federalism's way, two levels play, national and state, power's sway.