Which concept prevents any single branch from becoming too powerful?

Which concept prevents any single branch from becoming too powerful?

• A. Separation of powers
• B. Federalism
• C. Checks and balances
• D. Due process

Answer: (C)

Checks and balances is the system that prevents any single branch from becoming too powerful by giving each branch tools to check the others. For example, while Congress makes laws, the President can veto them, and Congress can override a veto. The President nominates federal judges, but the Senate confirms those appointments, and the courts can strike down laws or executive actions they find unconstitutional. Impeachment provides a way for Congress to remove leaders who abuse power. This built-in oversight keeps power shared and balanced across the branches. Separation of powers is about dividing responsibilities among the branches, while checks and balances adds the mechanisms to restrain power. Federalism deals with national versus state powers, and due process concerns fair treatment in legal proceedings.

Checks and balances is the system that prevents any single branch from becoming too powerful by giving each branch tools to check the others. For example, while Congress makes laws, the President can veto them, and Congress can override a veto. The President nominates federal judges, but the Senate confirms those appointments, and the courts can strike down laws or executive actions they find unconstitutional. Impeachment provides a way for Congress to remove leaders who abuse power. This built-in oversight keeps power shared and balanced across the branches. Separation of powers is about dividing responsibilities among the branches, while checks and balances adds the mechanisms to restrain power. Federalism deals with national versus state powers, and due process concerns fair treatment in legal proceedings.