Which of the following is a characteristic of dual federalism?

Dual federalism is characterized by a clear distinction between the powers and responsibilities of the federal and state governments. This framework suggests that the two levels of government operate independently within their own spheres of authority, with specific areas of jurisdiction clearly outlined. Under this system, federal powers are strictly enumerated in the Constitution, while states retain their own powers that are reserved to them, creating a balance that allows for distinct and separate governance.

In contrast, strong cooperation between federal and state governments, intergovernmental grants, and federal dominance imply a more intertwined relationship among the levels of government, which aligns more closely with cooperative federalism. In cooperative federalism, there is often overlapping jurisdiction and more collaborative efforts to achieve national goals. The focus in dual federalism lies in maintaining clear boundaries to protect the autonomy of each level of government.