U.S. Citizenship Civics TestSystem of GovernmentHard
A naturalization applicant is learning about the principle of 'popular sovereignty.' Which of the following exemplifies this principle in the U.S. government?
- ACitizens electing their representatives and leaders.
- BThe President's ability to issue executive orders.
- CStates retaining powers not delegated to the federal government.
- DThe Supreme Court's power of judicial review.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Citizens electing their representatives and leaders.
Popular sovereignty is the principle that the authority of a state and its government are created and sustained by the consent of its people, through their elected representatives. Citizens electing their representatives is the most direct and fundamental expression of this principle.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Executive orders are a presidential power, not directly related to the people's ultimate authority.
- C. This describes reserved powers and federalism, which relate to the division of power, not the origin of governmental authority from the people.
- D. Judicial review is a court power to ensure constitutionality, not the direct exercise of popular sovereignty.
Popular Sovereignty
The principle that the authority of a government is created and sustained by the will of its people, who are the source of all political power.
- People are the ultimate source of power.
- Exercised through voting and elected representatives.
- Foundational to American democracy.
Memory trick: Popular Sovereignty: 'People's choice, loud and clear voice!'