Which of the following statements best analyzes how James Madison contributed to the U.S. political structures and decision making today?

A. Madison wrote the Connecticut Compromise, which served as the basis of debate over representation in Congress at the Constitutional Convention.

B. Madison’s theory on the separation of powers and checks and balances inspired two important components of the U.S. government.

C. Madison was the first U.S. president and supported a strong executive.

D. Madison wrote the Virginia Plan, which served as the basis of debate over representation in Congress at the Constitutional Convention.

B. Madison’s theory on the separation of powers and checks and balances inspired two important components of the U.S. government.

Madison's contributions to the ideas of separation of powers and checks and balances have had a lasting impact on the U.S. political structures and decision-making processes. These principles are enshrined in the U.S. Constitution and continue to shape the way the government operates today.