The system that stops one branch of government from becoming too powerful in the United States is called checks and balances , combined with the separation of powers. The Constitution divides the government into three branches: legislative, executive, and judicial, each with distinct powers and responsibilities. This structure ensures that each branch can check the actions of the others and prevent any single branch from gaining excessive power
. Key features of this system include:
- The legislative branch (Congress) makes laws, but the President (executive branch) can veto those laws. However, Congress can override a presidential veto with a two-thirds majority vote in both houses
- The judicial branch (Supreme Court and other federal courts) can declare laws or executive actions unconstitutional, effectively nullifying them
- The President nominates judges and officials, but the Senate (legislative branch) must confirm these appointments
- Congress can impeach and remove the President or federal judges for misconduct
- The executive branch enforces laws, but its actions can be reviewed and limited by the other branches
This interplay of powers requires cooperation and oversight among the branches, preventing any one branch from dominating the government and protecting democratic governance
