Which document establishes the foundational principles of governance in Arizona?

The state constitution establishes the foundational principles of governance in Arizona. It serves as the highest legal authority within the state, outlining the structure of government, the separation of powers, and the rights of Arizona citizens. The state constitution is crucial because it reflects the values and priorities of the state's residents and specifies how laws are created and enforced within Arizona.

The Bill of Rights, while essential for protecting individual liberties, is primarily a part of the federal constitution and does not serve as a foundational document for state governance. The federal constitution governs the entire United States and sets overarching principles applicable across all states, but each state, including Arizona, has its own constitution that addresses its specific governmental framework and laws. The Declaration of Independence, though pivotal in American history, is not a governing document and does not establish governance in any state, including Arizona. Therefore, the state constitution is rightly recognized as the foundational document for governance within the state.