Principles of Government

Popular Sovereignty

The idea that government power comes from the people

Consent of the governed

People give the government permission to act by voting. If citizens don’t like what their leaders are doing, they can vote them out of office

Limited Government

Constitution carefully lists what the federal government is allowed to do the rest of the power belongs to the states and the people.

rule of law

everyone – even government leaders – must obey the law. Article 6, makes the constitution the “supreme law of the land.“

separation of powers

– Legislative Branch (Congress) – Makes laws

– Executive branch (President) – Enforces laws

– Judicial branch (Courts) – Interprets laws

checks and balances

Each branch limits the power of the others.

For example, Congress can pass a law, but the president must approve it.

The president can make treaties, but the Senate must agree to them.

Judges are nominated by the president, but the Senate must confirm them.