Who holds the power in a government based on the consent of the governed?

In a government based on the consent of the governed, power ultimately resides with the citizens. This principle is foundational to democratic systems, where the authority of the government is derived from the will and agreement of the people. Citizens express this consent through voting, participation in civic activities, and influencing public policy.

This concept emphasizes the role of the individual and collective voices in shaping government actions and decisions. It underscores that legitimate governance must reflect the interests and desires of the populace, who can withdraw their consent through elections or civic engagement if the government does not meet their expectations.

In contrast, the political elite and administrative agencies may wield power in specific contexts or positions, but they do so only as representatives or extensions of the authority granted to them by the citizens. The judiciary, while essential for interpreting laws and upholding justice, operates within the framework established by the consent of the governed, ensuring that its decisions align with democratic principles and the rule of law. Ultimately, the citizens stand as the primary source of legitimacy for any government structure founded on democratic ideals.