Which term best describes a system in which powers are shared between national and state governments, with reserved powers to the states?

Which term best describes a system in which powers are shared between national and state governments, with reserved powers to the states?

• A. Open syllables
• B. Rule of law
• C. Separation of powers
• D. Federalism

Answer: (D)

Federalism describes a system where power is shared between national and state governments, with reserved powers remaining in the hands of the states. This arrangement lets the national government handle nationwide issues—like defense and currency—while states manage local matters such as schools and local laws. The idea of reserved powers comes from the Tenth Amendment, which states that powers not delegated to the national government are reserved for the states or the people. There can also be concurrent powers where both levels exercise the same authority, such as taxation or building infrastructure. This concept is different from separation of powers, which divides authority among branches within a single level of government, and from rule of law, which holds that everyone, including those in power, must follow the law.

Federalism describes a system where power is shared between national and state governments, with reserved powers remaining in the hands of the states. This arrangement lets the national government handle nationwide issues—like defense and currency—while states manage local matters such as schools and local laws. The idea of reserved powers comes from the Tenth Amendment, which states that powers not delegated to the national government are reserved for the states or the people. There can also be concurrent powers where both levels exercise the same authority, such as taxation or building infrastructure. This concept is different from separation of powers, which divides authority among branches within a single level of government, and from rule of law, which holds that everyone, including those in power, must follow the law.