Which constitutional principle holds that government authority is derived from the people?

• A. Federalism
• B. Popular sovereignty
• C. Rule of law
• D. Checks and balances

Answer: (B)

Popular sovereignty is the idea that government gets its authority from the people, who consent to be governed through elections and participation. In a democracy, citizens choose representatives, vote on laws, and can hold leaders accountable, so the legitimacy of government rests on the will of the people rather than on force or divine right. This is the principle reflected in the Constitution’s opening words, “We the People,” and in the everyday practices of voting and civic engagement that authorize governmental power.

The other concepts describe how power is organized or constrained rather than where it originates: federalism is about dividing power between national and state governments, the rule of law means everyone, including the government, must follow laws, and checks and balances are mechanisms to limit power across branches.