Final answer:
The ultimate authority over the government in the United States lies with the people. The president, federal government, and fifty state governments have specific roles and responsibilities, but ultimate power resides with the people.
Step-by-step explanation:
The ultimate authority over the government in the United States lies with the people. In a democratic system, the power of the government is derived from the consent of the governed, meaning that the people have the right to elect their representatives and hold them accountable for their actions. The concept of popular sovereignty is a key principle of the U.S. government, where the people have the ultimate say in decision-making through voting and participation in civic activities.
While the president is a significant figure in the U.S. government, their authority is not absolute. The president is elected by the people and serves as the head of the executive branch, responsible for executing the laws and making policy decisions. However, their power is checked by other branches of government, such as the legislative and judicial branches, to ensure a system of checks and balances.
The federal government as a whole also plays a critical role in governing the nation. It is comprised of three branches: legislative, executive, and judicial. Each branch has specific powers and responsibilities outlined in the U.S. Constitution. Through this system, power is distributed among the federal government, state governments, and local governments, allowing for a balance of authority.
Additionally, while the fifty state governments have their own powers and authority, they are still subject to the Constitution and the overall governance framework established by the federal government.
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