1. The flexibility of federalism has both strengths and weaknesses. With federalism having the ability to allocate power from the federal government and to state and local governments, the level of the problem can be solved to better suit the people of the affected area. All power is derived from the supreme law of the land, the constitution, which is a strength because the powers are original and delegated by legislation of the states which can make decision making more efficient. By not giving all power to the national government and sharing power with the states, which is closer to the level of the everyday citizen, citizens are more able to affect law-making and government decisions. However, with multiple levels of power, each body can feel the need to assert their power which can cause conflict and can disrupt efficiency.
2. Money and aid from the federal government obviously plays a key role in the relationship between the central government and the states. In my opinion it is fair that the federal government places strict rules and regulations on where the money from the grant goes if the restrictions relate to the reason for the grant. The states rely greatly on funding from the federal government, and in turn, the federal government relies on the states to enact policies for concerns like healthcare and education. If the federal government attaches unrelated strings to the grants, then I see where conflicts will arise. Every state has their unique weak spots and strengths, therefore instead of giving money for specific items or services, the federal government should give grants to states to use where the states feel the money is needed.
3. I feel our system of federalism is superior to other nations' systems. I am not sure of one specific aspect I would change completely, but I certainly believe the communication between the powers could improve. During times of emergency like natural disasters or pandemics, the responsibility should be more organized or more of a team effort rather than controlled by one or the other.