Checks and Balances

What is the primary purpose of the system of checks and balances in the United States government?

• To give all the power to one branch

• To prevent any one branch from becoming too powerful

• To ensure that only the judicial branch has oversight

• To allow the states to have control over the federal government

Which branch of the U.S. government is responsible for making laws?

• Executive

• Legislative

• Judicial

• Military

How can the Executive Branch check the power of the Legislative Branch?

• By appointing judges

• By declaring laws unconstitutional

• By vetoing bills

• By impeaching members of Congress

What can the Legislative Branch do if the President vetoes a bill?

• Override the veto with a simple majority vote

• Override the veto with a two-thirds majority vote in both houses

• Request a national referendum

• Nothing; the veto is final

Which branch of government has the power to declare laws unconstitutional?

• Executive

• Legislative

• Judicial

• All of the above

What is the role of the Judicial Branch in the system of checks and balances?

• To enforce laws

• To interpret laws

• To create laws

• To fund government programs

Which branch of government is responsible for impeaching the President?

• Executive

• Legislative

• Judicial

• Both B and C

Which branch has the power to check the Judicial Branch by granting pardons?

• Legislative

• Executive

• Judicial

Which branch has the power to check the Executive by approving the annual budget?

• Legislative

• Executive

• Judicial

Which branch has the power to check the Judicial by appointing/nominating Federal Judges?

• Legislative

• Executive

• Judicial