Which Constitutional principle allows the government to operate through shared powers?

The principle of federalism allows the government to operate through shared powers. Federalism is a system of governance where power is divided between a central authority and various regional entities, typically states or provinces. This division enables different levels of government to operate simultaneously and exercise control over specific areas, such as education, transportation, and public safety.

In the context of the United States, the Constitution establishes a federal system where powers are shared between the national and state governments. For instance, both levels of government can levy taxes, regulate commerce, and enforce laws, though the scope and focus of these powers may vary. This shared authority helps ensure that governmental power is not concentrated in one branch or level, providing a balance that enhances democratic governance.

While checks and balances and the separation of powers pertain to how power is organized and limited within the national government, they do not specifically address the distribution of powers between different levels of government. Popular sovereignty refers to the idea that the government's power derives from the consent of the governed, emphasizing the role of citizens in a democracy. Therefore, federalism is the principle most accurately described as enabling shared governance across different layers of authority.