What is the primary difference between a federal government and a confederation? A. the presence of elected office holders B. the presence of independent member states C. the existence of multiple levels of government D. the existence of separate governmental branches

The primary difference between a federal government and a confederation is the presence of independent member states. In a confederation, the member states retain a high degree of sovereignty and independence, while in a federal government, the central government holds more power and the member states have less autonomy. Therefore, the correct answer is B.