1) Describe the primary differences in the role of citizens in government, among the federal, confederation, and unitary systems.
In a federal system, citizens have the opportunity to participate in both the national and subnational levels of government. They elect representatives of the national government, such as the president and members of Congress, who handle national matters. They also elect representatives of the state governments, such as the governor and state legislature, who handle matters within their regions. This allows citizens to have a say in both national and local policies and ensures that different levels of government cooperate and interact with each other.
In a confederation system, citizens have a more limited role in government. The central government’s ability to act depends on the consent of the subnational governments. The subnational governments have more power and authority, and the central government is subordinate and weak. Citizens may have more influence at the subnational level, where decisions are made by their local governments.
In a unitary system, citizens have a more centralized role in government. The national government holds significant authority and power, and subnational governments are dependent on the national government. Citizens have the opportunity to participate in the national government through elections and other forms of political participation. However, decisions and policies are primarily made at the national level, and citizens may have less influence at the local level.
2) Briefly explain how you understand the system of division of power.
The system of division of power, specifically in the context of federalism, refers to the distribution of governmental authority between two levels of government: the national government and subnational governments (such as state or local governments).
3) How does the federal government shape the actions of state and local governments? Write your answer based on doing a bit of research on how the federal government has influenced the actions of NY state and local governments, during the COVID-19 pandemic.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the federal government has played a significant role in shaping the actions of New York state and local governments. They’ve provided financial assistance through programs like the CARES Act to bolster healthcare systems, support businesses, and enhance testing efforts. Additionally, federal agencies like the CDC have issued guidelines on safety measures such as wearing masks and social distancing, which New York has implemented. Emergency declarations have allowed New York to prepare for and respond to the crisis, while collaboration between federal, state, and local authorities has ensured a coordinated approach. Lastly, the federal government has facilitated vaccine distribution, working with New York to administer vaccines according to federal guidelines.
