Which principle is used to divide power between the national and state governments?

• A. Federalism
• B. Separation of Powers
• C. Checks and Balances
• D. Judicial Review

Answer: (A)

The principle that divides power between the national and state governments is federalism. Federalism is a system of governance in which power is shared between two levels of government: the central (or national) government and regional (or state) governments. This division allows for multiple layers of authority and ensures that both levels of government can operate independently within their respective domains.

Federalism enables a balance of power, where the national government handles issues that affect the country as a whole, such as national defense and foreign policy, while state governments manage local matters like education and transportation. This structure is intended to prevent any one level of government from becoming too powerful, thus promoting a more equitable distribution of authority and supporting the right of states to enact their own laws and policies in areas not expressly reserved for the national government.

The other principles mentioned, such as separation of powers, checks and balances, and judicial review, refer to different aspects of governance. Separation of powers focuses on dividing government responsibilities among legislative, executive, and judicial branches to prevent any branch from wielding too much power. Checks and balances describe how each branch can limit the powers of the others, ensuring accountability and preventing abuse. Judicial review allows courts to determine the constitutionality of laws and actions by the