What is a common criticism of federalism?

A common criticism of federalism is its tendency to create inefficiencies and complexity within the system of governance. Federalism divides power between national and state governments, which can lead to overlapping responsibilities and conflicting laws. This structure may result in bureaucratic hurdles, as individuals and businesses navigate different regulations and legal frameworks depending on their location. The presence of multiple layers of government often means that policy implementation can be slow, fragmented, or inconsistent, making it challenging for citizens to obtain services or for the government to respond effectively to issues.

This complexity can also lead to confusion among citizens about where to go for assistance or which government authority to hold accountable for various issues. People might find it difficult to understand which level of government is responsible for certain policies, from education to healthcare to transportation. The added layers of government can also lead to increased administrative costs, complicating governance and potentially reducing efficiency.

The other options reflect different aspects of federalism that are generally viewed positively, such as promoting citizen engagement or providing flexibility to tailor local policies. However, they do not address the efficiency and complexity concerns that are commonly raised in critiques of the federal system.