Checks and Balances

What does the term "checks and balances mean?

Checks and balances are a way to keep the power of all branches equal.

How does the Executive Branch "check" the Legislative Branch and the Judicial Branch?

The Executive Branch "checks" the Legislative Branch by... can veto legislation Congress sends to the President to sign into law The Executive Branch "checks" the Judicial Branch by.... appointing judges that support the President's position on many issues

How does the Judicial Branch "check" the Legislative Branch and the Executive Branch?

The Judicial Branch "checks" the Executive Branch by... declaring Presidential actions unconstitutional The Judicial Branch "checks" the Legislative Branch by... declaring acts of the legislature including laws as unconstitutional

What are some examples of how the system of checks and balances work?

The president (head of the executive branch) serves as commander in chief of the military forces, but Congress (legislative branch) appropriates funds for the military and votes to declare war. In addition, the Senate must ratify any peace treaties. Congress has the power of the purse, so it controls the money used to fund any executive actions. The president nominates federal officials, but the Senate confirms or rejects those nominations. Once Congress has passed a bill, the president has the power to veto that bill. In turn, Congress can override a regular presidential veto by a two-thirds vote of both houses. The Supreme Court and other federal courts (judicial branch) can declare laws or presidential actions unconstitutional, in a process known as judicial review. In turn, the president checks the judiciary through the power of appointment, which can be used to change the direction of the federal courts

How did the framers of the Constitution divide the power?

U.S. Constitution built a system that divides power between the three branches of the U.S. government—legislative, executive and judicial—and includes various limits and controls on the powers of each branch.

How does the Legislative Branch "check" the Executive Branch and the Judicial branch?

the Legislative Branch "checks" the Executive Branch by... having the power to impeach the President; override President's veto; or refuse to approve treaties The Legislative Branch "checks" the Judicial Branch by... having the power to impeach judges; rejecting appointment nominations of judges including those to the Supreme Court

Why was the system of checks and balances created?

to ensure that no branch of government gained more power than another