What principle asserts that the people hold ultimate authority over the government?

The principle asserting that the people hold ultimate authority over the government is known as popular sovereignty. This concept embodies the idea that the legitimacy of the government is derived from the consent of the governed, meaning that the authority and power of the government are established and maintained through the will of the people. In a system of popular sovereignty, the government is accountable to its citizens and must operate in alignment with their interests and desires. This principle is foundational in democratic societies, where free and fair elections allow citizens to express their preferences and influence government actions.

Other concepts, while significant in their own right, serve different roles within the structure of government. Federalism refers to the division of power between national and state governments, providing a framework for governance rather than asserting authority. Judicial review pertains to the power of courts to assess whether laws and executive actions align with the constitution, rather than the origins of governmental authority. Separation of powers divides government responsibilities among different branches to prevent any single branch from becoming too powerful, but it does not directly relate to who holds ultimate authority.