Checks and Balances

1. Checks and Balances K Stafford MBMS 2013

2. Baron de Montesquieu • Baron de Montesquieu French Nobility • Believed in the ‘Separation of Powers’ which would keep a government from getting to strong • Separation of Powers- The structure of the federal government, according to the U.S. Constitution, that sets up three branches with their own distinct powers and responsibilities

3. Checks and Balances • This system of government also leads to ‘Checks and Balances’ • Checks and Balances-A principle of the federal government, according to the U.S. Constitution, that allows each branch of government to limit the power of the other branches

4. Legislative Branch • Override Presidents Veto • Impeachment • House brings Charges • Senate holds trial • House approves Budget • Senate Approves Treaties and Confirms appointment • Confirms Presidential Appointments for Supreme Court

5. Legislative Branch • Confirms Presidential Appointments for Supreme Court • Impeach/Remove Federal Judges • Establish Courts, set number of judges

6. Executive Branch • Veto Bills • Line Item Veto- Reject part of a Bill • Call Special Session of Congress • Can Propose Bills • Appoints Federal Judges • Grant Pardons and Reprieves

7. Judicial Branch • Declare Executive Orders Unconstitutional • Justices Appointed for Life • Declare Laws Unconstitutional