Which statement best describes checks and balances?

Which statement best describes checks and balances?

• A. Each branch has total control
• B. The judiciary has no power
• C. Each branch exercises powers that can limit others
• D. The president can pass laws without Congress

Answer: (C)

Checks and balances means each branch has powers that can limit the others, so no single part of government can dominate. The statement that best describes this idea emphasizes that each branch exercises tools that constrain the others—like the president vetoing laws, Congress potentially overriding that veto, Senate confirmation of appointments, the judiciary striking down laws or actions, and Congress's power to impeach or remove a president. This interlocking system keeps power distributed and prevents abuse. The other ideas misrepresent how the system works: no branch would have total control, the judiciary does have power, and the president cannot pass laws without Congress.

Checks and balances means each branch has powers that can limit the others, so no single part of government can dominate. The statement that best describes this idea emphasizes that each branch exercises tools that constrain the others—like the president vetoing laws, Congress potentially overriding that veto, Senate confirmation of appointments, the judiciary striking down laws or actions, and Congress's power to impeach or remove a president. This interlocking system keeps power distributed and prevents abuse. The other ideas misrepresent how the system works: no branch would have total control, the judiciary does have power, and the president cannot pass laws without Congress.