The system of government in the United States where power rests with the people and is exercised through voting and elected representatives. It is characterized by principles like individual freedoms, checks and balances, and majority rule.
Related terms
Political parties: Groups that organize to influence government policy by nominating candidates for office and promoting their ideas.
Separation of powers: The division of government authority among three branches - legislative, executive, and judicial - to prevent any one branch from becoming too powerful.
Federalism: The sharing of power between the national government (federal) and state governments.