Which of the following is an example of checks and balances? Select all that apply. (2 points)
The executive branch can impeach a Supreme Court Justice.
The judicial branch can rule a new law unconstitutional.
The judicial branch can veto presidential pardons.
The legislative branch can override a veto.
The executive branch can declare war.
The judicial branch can rule a new law unconstitutional.
The legislative branch can override a veto.
To determine which of the given options are examples of checks and balances, we need to understand the concept of checks and balances in government.
Checks and balances refer to the system in which different branches of government have the ability to limit or control the actions of other branches. This system ensures that no single branch becomes too powerful and allows for a balance of power in government.
Now, let's analyze each option:
1. The executive branch can impeach a Supreme Court Justice.
This statement is not an example of checks and balances. Impeaching a Supreme Court Justice is a power of the legislative branch, not the executive branch.
2. The judicial branch can rule a new law unconstitutional.
This statement is an example of checks and balances. The judiciary has the power of judicial review, which allows them to determine the constitutionality of laws passed by the legislative branch.
3. The judicial branch can veto presidential pardons.
This statement is not accurate. The judicial branch does not have the power to veto presidential pardons. The authority to grant pardons rests solely with the executive branch.
4. The legislative branch can override a veto.
This statement is an example of checks and balances. If the president vetoes a bill, the legislative branch can override that veto with a two-thirds majority vote in both the House of Representatives and the Senate.
5. The executive branch can declare war.
This statement is not an accurate example of checks and balances. Although the executive branch has the power to initiate military actions, formally declaring war is a power granted to the legislative branch, specifically Congress.
To summarize, the correct examples of checks and balances from the given options are:
- The judicial branch can rule a new law unconstitutional.
- The legislative branch can override a veto.
The following options are examples of checks and balances:
- The judicial branch can rule a new law unconstitutional.
- The legislative branch can override a veto.