What is federalism?

Federalism is a political system in which power is divided and shared between a national government and various state or regional governments. This division is integral to the organization of the United States, as it allows both levels of government to operate independently within their respective domains.

In a federal system, certain powers are designated for the national government, such as defense and foreign affairs, while other powers and responsibilities are reserved for the states, such as education and local law enforcement. This structure not only accommodates a diverse population with various needs and interests but also provides a system of checks and balances, where each level of government can serve as a counter to the other.

By allowing states to exercise their own powers in many areas, federalism encourages local governance and enables governments to be more responsive to the unique needs of their communities. It is a foundational aspect of the U.S. Constitution and illustrates how power can be negotiated and balanced in a way that respects both unity and diversity within the nation.