Which document serves as a framework for the United States government?

The Constitution serves as a framework for the United States government because it establishes the fundamental laws and principles that guide the nation's governance. It outlines the structure of the government, including the separation of powers among the legislative, executive, and judicial branches. Additionally, the Constitution includes provisions for the rights of citizens, the process for creating and amending laws, and the responsibilities of various government bodies.

While the Bill of Rights is a crucial part of the Constitution, specifically detailing individual rights and protections, it is the Constitution itself that provides the overall structure for how the government operates. The Declaration of Independence, on the other hand, announced the colonies' separation from Britain and expressed foundational principles of democracy but does not provide a framework for governance. The Federalist Papers were a series of essays aimed at advocating for the ratification of the Constitution and explaining its principles, but they do not themselves serve as a legal framework for government. Therefore, the Constitution stands as the primary legal document that organizes and regulates the United States government.