Separation of Powers and Checks and Balances

These flashcards cover the key concepts related to the separation of powers and checks and balances in the U.S. political system.

Separation of Powers

The principle that no one branch of government holds all the authority, distributing power among the legislative, executive, and judicial branches.

Tyranny

A single ruler or small group wields absolute power, often in an oppressive manner, highlighting the dangers of unchecked authority.

Legislative Branch

Composed of two houses, Congress, which has the power to propose and make laws.

Executive Branch

Refers to the president of the United States and the bureaucracy, responsible for enforcing the laws.

Judicial Branch

Refers to the Supreme Court and other federal courts, charged with interpreting the constitutionality of laws.

Checks and Balances

A system that ensures that no one branch of government becomes too powerful, as each branch has the ability to check the others.

Impeachment

The power of Congress to remove the president from office, requiring a trial and a majority vote.

Veto

The power of the president to reject a bill passed by Congress, preventing it from becoming law.

Judicial Review

The power of the courts to declare laws passed by Congress unconstitutional and null and void.

Federalist 51

A foundational document arguing that separation of powers and checks and balances are crucial to control the abuse of power in government.

Stakeholder

Anyone with a vested interest in the outcome of policy making, including average citizens who are affected by legislation.