In which types of cases does the Supreme Court hold original jurisdiction?

The Supreme Court holds original jurisdiction primarily in cases involving states and foreign officials. This is established by Article III of the United States Constitution, which delineates the types of cases the Supreme Court has original jurisdiction over. Original jurisdiction means that these cases can be filed directly in the Supreme Court rather than being heard first in lower courts.

This jurisdiction applies specifically to cases where a state is a party, such as disputes between states, or where foreign diplomats or officials are involved. For instance, if one state sues another, or if a foreign ambassador is involved in a legal dispute, those cases are brought directly to the Supreme Court.

The other options reflect misunderstandings of the court's jurisdiction. Cases involving only citizens do not fall under the Supreme Court's original jurisdiction, as such matters would typically start in lower courts. While the Supreme Court generally hears appeals from lower courts, this is classified under appellate jurisdiction, not original jurisdiction. Therefore, the correct choice highlights the specific and limited scope of the Supreme Court's original jurisdiction as outlined in the Constitution.