The basic principle of popular sovereignty refers to the idea that the authority of a government is created and sustained by the consent of its people, typically through their elected representatives. It emphasizes that the power of the government is derived from the people and that they have the right to alter or abolish their government if it does not serve their interests.
Among the options provided, the most relevant statement to popular sovereignty is:
The people have the right to alter their government.
This captures the essence of popular sovereignty, highlighting the power and authority of the people in deciding their governance.