7 Pren. Of Con.
By Kolin McCullough
Checks and Balances
A way for each branch of government to make sure the others don't get too much power. "The House of Representatives shall choose their Speaker and other Officers; and shall have the sole Power of Impeachment." Article 1, section 2.5 A president may be impeached.
Limited government
It limits the government to the power the constitution gives them. "Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances." Bill of rights, amendment 1. A police officer cannot search someone's house or car without a warrant.
Individual Rights
Personal freedoms, protects a citizens rights specific to them. Bill of rights, first amendment, gives individuals the freedom of speech, religion, petition, own and bear arms, and the right to protest.a person could speak out against the president freely.
Popular Sovereignty
Final say rests with the people. The whole preamble to the constitution. People have fue rigor to vote when they turn 18.
Republicanism
People excercising their power through elections. "The House of Representatives shall be composed of Members chosen every second Year by the People of the several States, and the Electors in each State shall have the Qualifications requisite for Electors of the most numerous Branch of the State Legislature." Article 1, section 2.5. Every two years citizens vote for delegates
Federalism
Power is divided between the state and federal governments. "The Congress shall have Power to lay and collect Taxes, Duties, Imposts and Excises, to pay the Debts and provide for the common Defense and general Welfare of the United States; but all Duties, Imposts and Excises shall be uniform throughout the United States." Article 8, section 8.1. The state government sets speed limits.
Separation of Powers
Power is divided amongst the legislative, executive, and judicial branches. Article 1 creates the legislative branch. Article 2 creates the executive branch. Article 3 creates the judicial branch. Each branch has powers the other do not.