What type of government structure does Arizona follow?

Arizona operates under a constitutional republic framework, which is characterized by a system in which representatives are elected by the populace to create and enforce laws within the boundaries set by a constitution. This means that the power rests with the people, who exercise their authority through elected officials. In Arizona, the state constitution provides the legal foundation, ensuring that both the government and its representatives are bound by the rule of law.

In a constitutional republic, there is a clear distinction between the powers of various branches of government—executive, legislative, and judicial—allowing for a system of checks and balances that is intended to prevent the abuse of power. This structure helps to maintain individual rights and liberties while also ensuring that the government remains accountable to the citizens.

In contrast, options like monarchy and oligarchy imply rule by a single individual or a small group of elites, respectively, which do not align with the democratic principles ensured in a constitutional republic. Similarly, a direct democracy entails that citizens vote directly on laws and policies rather than through elected representatives, which differs from the representative nature of Arizona's government. Thus, the choice of a constitutional republic accurately describes the political system in Arizona.