Describe the process by which the legislative branch can override a presidential veto. Why is this considered a check on the executive branch?

Congress can override a presidential veto with a two-thirds vote in both the House and the Senate. This is a check because it prevents the President from unilaterally blocking legislation.

How does the Senate's power of 'advice and consent' act as a check on the President's power of appointment?

The Senate must approve many of the President's appointments, including federal judges and key officials. This allows the Senate to prevent the President from filling positions with unqualified or unsuitable candidates.

Checks and Balances in Government

11th Grade•45 minutes

Learning Objective

I can explain how checks and balances limit the power of each branch of the federal government.

Key Concepts

The national government is divided into three branches: the legislative, executive, and judicial branches.

Checks and balances allow each branch of government to limit the power of the other two branches, creating a balance of power.

According to James Madison in Federalist 51, checks and balances are necessary to protect citizens from potential abuses of power by the government.

Practice Questions

This lesson includes 8 practice questions to reinforce learning.

View questions preview

1. What is the primary function of the legislative branch, as outlined in the Constitution?

2. The power of the President as the executive is found in what?

3. Explain how the power of judicial review acts as a check on both the legislative and executive branches.

...and 5 more questions

Educational Video

Separation of Powers and Checks and Balances: Crash Course Government and Politics #3

CrashCourse

Learning Objective

Key Concepts

Practice Questions

Educational Video

Create Your Own Lesson