Which concept describes the system in which each branch can limit the powers of the other two branches, such as the president's veto?

Which concept describes the system in which each branch can limit the powers of the other two branches, such as the president's veto?

• A. Separation of powers
• B. Checks and balances
• C. Federalism
• D. Judicial review

Answer: (B)

The idea being tested is how overlapping powers create restraints among the branches of government. Checks and balances describes this system where each branch can limit the others, so no one branch becomes too powerful. The president’s veto is a clear example: the executive can block a bill, and Congress can respond by trying to override the veto, which keeps the executive from unilaterally shaping legislation. The judiciary also helps by reviewing laws and actions to ensure they conform to the Constitution, providing a check on both the legislative and executive branches. This framework is distinct from separation of powers, which is about dividing duties among the branches, and from federalism, which concerns the division of power between national and state governments.

The idea being tested is how overlapping powers create restraints among the branches of government. Checks and balances describes this system where each branch can limit the others, so no one branch becomes too powerful. The president’s veto is a clear example: the executive can block a bill, and Congress can respond by trying to override the veto, which keeps the executive from unilaterally shaping legislation. The judiciary also helps by reviewing laws and actions to ensure they conform to the Constitution, providing a check on both the legislative and executive branches. This framework is distinct from separation of powers, which is about dividing duties among the branches, and from federalism, which concerns the division of power between national and state governments.