Checks and Balances in US Government

A set of vocabulary flashcards detailing the system of checks and balances among the Legislative, Executive, and Judicial branches of the US Government.

Veto Override

The power of Congress to overturn a presidential veto through a $\frac{2}{3}$ vote of both houses.

Power of the Purse

The constitutional authority given to Congress requiring all federal funding and money to be approved by Congress.

Senate Approval Power

The constitutional requirement that the Senate must approve presidential appointments and treaties.

Legislative Oversight

The authority of Congress to monitor, review, and supervise executive branch agencies, programs, and policy implementation.

Presidential Veto

The executive check where the President rejects legislation passed by Congress.

Special Session Power

The executive authority of the President to convene Congress.

Presidential Appointment Power

The executive check where the President nominates and appoints federal judges.

Pardon Power

The authority of the President to pardon anyone convicted of a federal crime.

Delayed Implementation

An executive check with an unclear constitutional basis where the President refuses to implement or delays the implementation of judicial decisions.

Judicial Review

The power of the judicial branch to interpret the Constitution and laws, checking both the legislative and executive branches.

Chief Justice's Impeachment Role

The constitutional mandate that the Chief Justice presides over an impeachment trial.

Constitutional Amendment Check

A legislative check where Congress may propose a constitutional amendment to overrule a Supreme Court decision.

Appellate Jurisdiction Authority

The legislative power of Congress to determine or change the appellate jurisdiction of the Supreme Court.

Judicial Structure Control

The authority of Congress to create lower courts and change the number of judges.

Legislative Modification of Rulings

The legislative power of Congress to pass legislation to modify the impact of past Supreme Court decisions.