1. Constitutional Principles

2. What are the five basic principles of American Government?
1. Popular Sovereignty
Idea that people have the right to rule themselves
How is it practiced?
Through the election process. People select and remove leaders.

3. Five basic principles cont...
2. Limited Government
Limiting the power of government to protect the rights of the people
What are some things which limit the power of government?
Bill of Rights, Articles of the Constitution

4. Five basic principles cont...
3. Federalism
Power is divided between the national government and the states
What is the Supremacy Clause?
The Constitution and the laws of the United States are the “Supreme Law of the Land”
Article 6, Section 2

5. Line of Authority US Constitution Federal Government
State Constitutions
State Laws
Local Charters
Local Laws

6. Five basic principles cont...
4. Checks and Balances
Each branch is subject to restraints (limitations) by the other branches
How is it practiced?
The President may veto a law passed by Congress
The Congress may override a veto
The Supreme Court may declare a law unconstitutional

7. Five basic principles cont...
5. Separation of Powers
Dividing powers up among the three branches

8. Enumerated Powers
Powers the Constitution specifically gives to the national government
Foreign affairs
Armed Forces
Foreign Trade
Coin and print money
Postal system
Govern territories

9. Reserved Powers
Powers the Constitution specifically gives to the states
Regulate trade and commerce
Establish local governments
Conduct elections
Establish public schools
Provide for safety

10. Concurrent Powers
Those powers shared by the national and state governments
Enforce laws
Establish courts
Collect taxes
Borrow money
Provide for the general welfare