Which Constitution principle is primarily focused on the distribution of power among branches of government?

The principle of separation of powers is fundamental to the structure of the government as established by the Constitution. This principle divides governmental authority into three distinct branches: the legislative, executive, and judicial branches. Each branch has its own powers and responsibilities, which are meant to operate independently of one another, ensuring that no single branch can dominate the others.

By separating powers, the Constitution aims to prevent the concentration of authority and potential abuse that can arise from unchecked power. This distribution allows for a system of governance in which each branch can provide oversight and limited authority over the others, fostering a balance that is critical to a functioning democracy. For example, the legislative branch makes laws, the executive enforces them, and the judicial interprets them. This structure forms the foundation of checks and balances as well, which ensures that each branch can monitor and limit the actions of the others, but the core idea of distributing power primarily stems from the concept of separation of powers.

The other principles mentioned, such as checks and balances, federalism, and popular sovereignty, do relate to governmental structure and authority but do not specifically focus on the distribution of power among branches in the same foundational way as separation of powers does.