Which document serves as the foundation for laws in Arizona?

The Arizona Constitution serves as the foundation for laws in Arizona because it establishes the framework for the state's government, detailing the structure, powers, and responsibilities of various state institutions. It is the highest legal document in Arizona state law, meaning all other laws and regulations must align with its provisions. The Arizona Constitution outlines the rights of individuals, the processes of governance, and the limits of authority for state officials, ensuring that it effectively governs the state's legal and political landscape.

While the U.S. Constitution is crucial for the entire country and provides the broad principles of federal governance, it does not specifically address state laws or local governance matters unique to Arizona. Other documents, like the Federalist Papers, are primarily historical and theoretical discussions that informed the U.S. Constitution's creation but do not create laws themselves. The Declaration of Independence signifies the colonies' intent to break from British rule, setting a philosophical foundation for democracy but not providing legal governance on a state level. Thus, the Arizona Constitution uniquely fulfills the role of being the foundational document for laws within Arizona.