Under federalism, what is the relationship between state governments and the federal government?

The relationship between state governments and the federal government under federalism is characterized by the distribution of powers and responsibilities. In a federal system, both levels of government, state and federal, have distinct roles, with specific powers granted to each by the Constitution. This division allows states to govern themselves in certain areas, such as education and transportation, while the federal government has authority over matters like national defense and foreign policy.

Cooperation and interaction between the two levels of government are also key features in this relationship, as they can work together and sometimes overlap in their functions. For example, states may implement federal laws, and the federal government may provide funding for state projects, creating a dynamic interplay between the two. Consequently, the recognition that both state and federal governments have their own powers and responsibilities is fundamental to understanding the structure of governance under federalism.