Which of the following is an example of checks and balances? Select all that apply.
The executive branch can impeach a Supreme Court Justice.
The executive branch can impeach a Supreme Court Justice.
The judicial branch can rule a new law unconstitutional.
The judicial branch can rule a new law unconstitutional.
The executive branch can declare war.
The executive branch can declare war.
The legislative branch can override a veto.
The legislative branch can override a veto.
The judicial branch can veto presidential pardons.
The judicial branch can rule a new law unconstitutional.
The legislative branch can override a veto.
The examples of checks and balances are:
1. The executive branch can impeach a Supreme Court Justice.
2. The judicial branch can rule a new law unconstitutional.
3. The legislative branch can override a veto.
So, the correct options are:
- The executive branch can impeach a Supreme Court Justice.
- The judicial branch can rule a new law unconstitutional.
- The legislative branch can override a veto.
The correct examples of checks and balances are:
1. The judicial branch can rule a new law unconstitutional.
This is an example of checks and balances because the judicial branch has the power to review legislation passed by the legislative branch. If the court determines that a law is unconstitutional, it can declare it null and void.
2. The legislative branch can override a veto.
This is an example of checks and balances because the legislative branch has the power to pass laws, but the executive branch (the President) has the power to veto those laws. However, if the legislative branch can gather enough votes, they can override the President's veto, demonstrating the balance of power between the two branches.
The other options provided are not examples of checks and balances:
- The executive branch can impeach a Supreme Court Justice.
This statement is incorrect. The power to impeach belongs to the legislative branch, not the executive branch. The executive branch can nominate Supreme Court Justices, but it does not have the power to remove them from office.
- The executive branch can declare war.
While the executive branch, specifically the President, has the authority to deploy military forces, the power to officially declare war lies with the legislative branch. Specifically, the Constitution grants Congress the power to declare war.
- The judicial branch can veto presidential pardons.
This statement is also incorrect. The judicial branch does not have the power to veto presidential pardons. The President has the sole authority to grant pardons and the judiciary does not have the power to overturn or veto those decisions.