What is federalism?

• A. The division of power between the national government and state governments.
• B. A system where all powers are held by the national government.
• C. The power of the courts to review laws.
• D. A plan for regular elections across federal districts

Answer: (D)

Federalism is the division of power between the national government and state governments. It means some powers are given to the national government (like defending the country or conducting foreign affairs), some are reserved for the states (like running schools or local law enforcement), and some are shared or exercised concurrently. This arrangement is outlined in the Constitution and helps balance authority, allowing both levels to act within their own spheres while supporting the overall system of governance.

The other descriptions describe different ideas: one describes a system where all powers are held by the national government (a unitary system), another describes judicial review (courts’ power to interpret or strike down laws), and another describes organizing elections across districts (which is about election logistics, not how power is distributed).