What is federalism?

Federalism is defined as a system of government in which power is divided between a central authority and constituent political units, such as states or provinces. This division of power allows for a balance between national and local governance, enabling both levels to exercise authority over certain issues. In a federal system, the central authority is responsible for national concerns such as defense and foreign policy, while states can manage local matters like education and transportation according to their individual needs and circumstances.

This structure ensures that no single entity holds all the power, fostering a more democratic distribution of authority and allowing for regional diversity. Federalism is a fundamental characteristic of the United States government, as outlined in the Constitution, and plays a crucial role in its functioning by providing a framework in which both the federal and state governments operate independently within their own spheres of influence.