What is commonly known as the system of checks and balances?

What is commonly known as the system of checks and balances?

• A. A method to ensure equal pay
• B. A way to balance state and federal power
• C. A principle that prevents one branch from overpowering the others
• D. A technique for redistributing taxes

Answer: (C)

The system of checks and balances is a foundational principle in the U.S. government designed to ensure that no single branch—executive, legislative, or judicial—gains too much power. This framework creates a dynamic system where each branch has specific powers and responsibilities that can limit the actions of the others. For instance, while the legislative branch makes laws, the executive branch has the power to veto those laws, and the judicial branch can declare laws unconstitutional. This interplay encourages cooperation and accountability among the branches, fostering a government that is balanced and just. By preventing any one branch from dominating the others, checks and balances protect the democratic principles upon which the United States was founded.

The system of checks and balances is a foundational principle in the U.S. government designed to ensure that no single branch—executive, legislative, or judicial—gains too much power. This framework creates a dynamic system where each branch has specific powers and responsibilities that can limit the actions of the others. For instance, while the legislative branch makes laws, the executive branch has the power to veto those laws, and the judicial branch can declare laws unconstitutional. This interplay encourages cooperation and accountability among the branches, fostering a government that is balanced and just. By preventing any one branch from dominating the others, checks and balances protect the democratic principles upon which the United States was founded.