The statement 'All political power is inherent in the people' expresses which constitutional principle in Michigan's constitution?

The statement 'All political power is inherent in the people' expresses which constitutional principle in Michigan's constitution?

• A. Popular sovereignty
• B. Federalism
• C. Rule of Law
• D. Separation of powers

Answer: (A)

The statement taps into popular sovereignty—the idea that political power comes from the people themselves. In a democracy, legitimacy rests on the consent of the governed, which is expressed through elections, civic participation, and the ability to alter or replace government if it fails to serve the people. Michigan’s constitution states that all political power is inherent in the people to reflect this source of authority. This focus on where power originates distinguishes it from federalism (power shared between levels), the Rule of Law (government and citizens are bound by laws), and separation of powers (dividing government functions among branches).

The statement taps into popular sovereignty—the idea that political power comes from the people themselves. In a democracy, legitimacy rests on the consent of the governed, which is expressed through elections, civic participation, and the ability to alter or replace government if it fails to serve the people. Michigan’s constitution states that all political power is inherent in the people to reflect this source of authority. This focus on where power originates distinguishes it from federalism (power shared between levels), the Rule of Law (government and citizens are bound by laws), and separation of powers (dividing government functions among branches).