Which of the following best describes the system of federalism?

The correct answer accurately captures the essence of federalism, which is a political system that divides power between a central government and regional governments, such as states. In the context of the United States, the Constitution establishes this framework by delineating the powers granted to the federal government and reserving certain rights for the states. This division allows both levels of government to operate independently within their respective areas of authority, and it promotes a system of checks and balances.

Federalism is a foundational concept in U.S. governance, ensuring that no single entity has absolute power, and it allows for diversity in laws and policies that can cater to the specific needs and preferences of different states. This is vital in addressing the varied interests of a diverse population spread across a large geographical area.

In contrast, the other choices do not encapsulate the definition of federalism. Centralized authority in Washington D.C. suggests a unitary system where power is concentrated in a central government, which is contradictory to the decentralized nature of federalism. Cooperation between state and federal law enforcement reflects an aspect of interaction between the two, but it does not define the structural relationship between them. Uniform laws across all states imply a lack of diversity and a single legal framework, which would undermine the federal principle