The separation of powers divides governmental authority among three branches: the legislative (Congress), the executive (President), and the judicial (Supreme Court). This prevents any single branch from becoming too powerful. Checks and balances allow each branch to limit the power of the other two, ensuring a balance of authority. For example, the President can veto laws passed by Congress, but Congress can override the veto with a two-thirds vote. The Supreme Court can declare laws unconstitutional, providing a check on both the legislative and executive branches.
Match the terms with their definitions:
| Terms | Definitions |
|---|---|
| 1. Veto | A. The power of the courts to declare laws unconstitutional. |
| 2. Impeachment | B. The division of government powers among different branches. |
| 3. Judicial Review | C. A formal process in which an official is accused of unlawful activity, which may include removal from office. |
| 4. Separation of Powers | D. The rejection of a bill by the President. |
| 5. Override | E. An action taken by Congress to reverse a presidential veto. |
The system of __________ and __________ ensures that no single branch of the government becomes too powerful. The President can __________ bills passed by Congress, but Congress can __________ the veto with a two-thirds vote. The Supreme Court uses __________ to review laws.
Explain how checks and balances might prevent a president from becoming a dictator.
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