- Describe the primary differences in the role of citizens in government, among the federal, confederation, and unitary systems.
In a federal system, citizens play a role in both the national government and the government of their respective states. They elect representatives to both levels of government and may participate in policymaking through various channels. In a confederation, citizens primarily interact with their state or regional government, as power is decentralized with little authority held by a central government. In a unitary system, citizens interact solely with the national government, as power is concentrated at the central level, and regional governments, if they exist, have limited authority.
2.Briefly explain how you understand the system of division of power.
The division of power refers to the distribution of authority between different levels of government. In federal systems, power is divided between a central government and regional governments, with each level having distinct areas of jurisdiction. This division aims to balance centralized authority with regional autonomy, fostering cooperation while preserving local control. Checks and balances mechanisms ensure that no single level of government becomes too dominant.
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 influenced the actions of state and local governments in New York through various means. This includes providing guidance and resources such as funding, medical supplies, and expertise to combat the pandemic. Additionally, federal mandates, recommendations, and emergency declarations have shaped state and local responses to the crisis, influencing policies related to public health measures, economic relief, and vaccination distribution. Federal regulations and guidelines have also impacted decision-making at the state and local levels, shaping strategies for containing the spread of the virus and mitigating its impact on communities.
