| A | B |
|---|
| Popular Sovereignty | The people rule over the government |
| Separation of Power | Three branches - legislative, executive, and judicial. Divides the government's power to prevent abuse. |
| Checks and Balances | There is a mixture of powers - each branch can limit the other branches power. congress passes a bill; Presidential veto; Congressional override. |
| Limited Government Power | President is elected by the Electoral College; senators (17th) and house reps are chosen by the people; Supreme Court is nominated by the presdient and approved by the congress. |
| Flexibility | The constitution can be amended; Must be approved (ratified) by 3/4 of the state legislatures. |
| Federalism | Creates both a National and State level of government; The Natioal governemtn does things like fight wars and negotiate treaties. The State government does things like fix roads and run schools and elections. |
| Inalienable Rights | Citizens are born with these, like "life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness." |
| Due Process | Guarantees that veryone is treated equally under the law. |
