The U.S. Constitution starts with the words "We the People." What does "We the People" mean?

The phrase "We the People" serves as a foundational concept of democracy in the United States. It emphasizes that the authority of the government is derived from the consent of the governed, meaning that the power to govern ultimately lies in the hands of the citizens. This reflects the idea that the people have the right and responsibility to participate in self-governance, which includes voting, expressing their views, and influencing decisions that affect their lives.

This aligns with the principles of a democratic society, where the government's legitimacy is based on the will of the people rather than being imposed by a ruler or an elite class. Therefore, this phrase serves as a powerful reminder that in a democracy, citizens should actively engage in the political process and influence how they are governed.

The other choices suggest different dynamics of governance that do not align with this democratic principle: relying solely on leaders implies a lack of active participation, obeying laws without question does not encapsulate the spirit of collective governance and dialogue, while limiting the focus to only the President ignores the broader electoral process that includes numerous representatives. Thus, "We the People" firmly establishes the right for citizens to govern themselves through participation in all levels of government.