Constitutional Principles, Separation of Powers, and Checks and Balances

Vocabulary flashcards covering key Constitutional principles, roles of the three branches of government, and specific checks and balances.

Limited Government

The principle that government only has the powers the Constitution gives it and that its power has limits.

Republicanism

The principle that citizens govern through representatives they elect.

Checks and Balances

The system in which each branch of government has powers that can limit the actions of the other branches.

Federalism

The division of power between the national government and state government.

Separation of Powers

The principle that government power is divided among the legislative, executive, and judicial branches.

Popular Sovereignty

The principle that government gets its authority from the people.

Legislative Branch

The branch whose main role is to make laws, with specific powers to declare war and control budget/funding.

Executive Branch

The branch whose main role is to enforce laws, with powers including acting as commander-in-chief of the armed forces and appointing officials and judges.

Judicial Branch

The branch whose main role is to interpret laws, with powers to review constitutionality (judicial review) and settle disputes between states or federal cases.

Executive Checks on Legislative

Powers of the executive branch to veto laws and call special sessions/recommend legislation.

Legislative Checks on Executive

Powers of the legislative branch to override vetoes, approve appointments/treaties, and handle impeachment/removal of the President.

Judicial Checks on Legislative

The power of the judicial branch to declare laws unconstitutional.

Legislative Checks on Judicial

Powers of the legislative branch to confirm judges, impeach/remove judges, or change courts.

Executive Checks on Judicial

Powers of the executive branch to nominate judges and grant pardons and reprieves.

Judicial Checks on Executive

The power of the judicial branch to declare executive actions unconstitutional.