What does "popular sovereignty" mean in the context of U.S. government?

In the context of U.S. government, popular sovereignty fundamentally means that the authority of the government is created and sustained by the consent of its people. This principle reflects the idea that the legitimacy of government stems from the will of the people, who exercise their power through voting and civic engagement. The concept is enshrined in foundational documents such as the Declaration of Independence and is a cornerstone of the democratic process.

This notion ensures that the government remains accountable to the citizens, highlighting that the rights and privileges granted to the government are only valid as long as they are in alignment with the desires and needs of the populace. In practice, this means that elected officials are representatives of the people's will, and major legislative actions or changes in governance should reflect the consent of the governed.

The other options highlight different aspects of government functions or structures but do not accurately encapsulate the essence of popular sovereignty. For instance, the notion of government being run by elected officials is related but does not capture the underlying principle of power arising directly from the people. Similarly, the ability of government to change laws at will or control all social aspects of life does not reflect the foundational belief that the people hold the ultimate authority.