Topic 7: Checks and Balances

How does the judicial branch check on the power of Congress and the President?

• vetoing legislation (law) that is passed by Congress and signed by the President

• declaring acts of Congress (legislation) or presidential actions (executive orders) to be unconstitutional

• issuing warrants

• issuing court restraints

The Congress of the United States has the power to make laws for the nation. Who has the power to approve (sign) or veto new legislation?

• state governors

• United States citizens

• the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court

• the President of the United States

Which of the following examples illustrates the system of checks and balances?

• The President calls for a special meeting of the Cabinet.

• The President signs a tax bill, even though the Congress recommends that he not sign it.

• The President entertains the Queen of England.

• The President vetoes a bill, but Congress overrides his veto.

Supreme Court justices (judges) are appointed by . . .

• the United Nations.

• Congress.

• a special committee.

• the President.

Which of the following choices from the list below correctly completes this statement: The President checks Congress by

• proposing legislation (laws)

• preparing an annual budget for the Supreme Court to approve

• signing or vetoing legislation (laws) that Congress has passed

• refusing to confirm judges and justices

Which of the following is a check that the legislature has over the executive branch? (Click all that apply)

• Confirming presidential appointees.

• Impeaching the president.

• Overriding a presidential veto

Ability of one branch of government to limit the power of the other branches

• Separation of Powers

• Checks and Balances

• Federalism

This branch can impeach the President or Supreme Court Judges.

• Legislative Branch

• Executive Branch

• Judicial Branch

Who formally initiates the impeachment process?

• the House of Representatives

• any citizen of the United States

• the President

• The Senate

Where does the impeachment trial take place?

• The White House

• The Senate

• The Supreme Court

• The House of Representatives