Which concept describes a system where each branch can limit the powers of the others?

Which concept describes a system where each branch can limit the powers of the others?

• A. Federalism
• B. Separation of powers
• C. Checks and balances
• D. Popular sovereignty

Answer: (C)

Checks and balances is a system in which each branch of government can limit the powers of the others. This arrangement prevents any one branch from becoming too powerful by creating requirements, responsibilities, and oversight that involve the others. For example, the legislative branch can create laws, but the executive can veto those laws, and the legislative branch can override a veto with enough votes. The judiciary can review laws and executive actions to determine if they’re constitutional. The executive appoints judges and other officials, but the Senate must confirm many of those appointments, and high officials can be impeached and removed. These interactions keep power in balance by requiring cooperation and accountability among the branches. Separation of powers refers to dividing government responsibilities among the three branches, while federalism concerns the division of power between national and state governments. Popular sovereignty is the idea that the people are the source of governmental authority.

Checks and balances is a system in which each branch of government can limit the powers of the others. This arrangement prevents any one branch from becoming too powerful by creating requirements, responsibilities, and oversight that involve the others. For example, the legislative branch can create laws, but the executive can veto those laws, and the legislative branch can override a veto with enough votes. The judiciary can review laws and executive actions to determine if they’re constitutional. The executive appoints judges and other officials, but the Senate must confirm many of those appointments, and high officials can be impeached and removed. These interactions keep power in balance by requiring cooperation and accountability among the branches.

Separation of powers refers to dividing government responsibilities among the three branches, while federalism concerns the division of power between national and state governments. Popular sovereignty is the idea that the people are the source of governmental authority.