Separation of powers

1. Separation of powers

2. Analyzing politicalcartoons:Turn to page 493 in The Americans text and read the section on “The Supreme Court Reacts”

3. Vocabulary • camouflage (verb)-to disguise in order to conceal expedite (verb)-to hasten litigation (noun)-lawsuit dissertation (noun)-a formal and lengthy report absolutism (noun)-system where ruler has unlimited powers integrity (noun)-honesty, wholenesstribunal (noun)-court of justice

4. Separation of powers • The system of separation of powers is intended to break up the power of the federal government into different parts. • Within the system is what is called checks and balances. Each branch of the government has the power to check and balance another. • This ensures that no one branch ever gains too much power.

5. The traditional characterizations of the powers of the branches of American government are: • Executive Branch - Carries out the law, sign a bill into law, sign treaties, make appointments, • The President and the agencies and departments

6. The traditional characterizations of the powers of the branches of American government are: 2. Legislative Branch - Makes the law, ratify treaties and appointments. • Congress - House of Representatives and the Senate

7. The traditional characterizations of the powers of the branches of American government are: 3. Judicial Branch - Judges the law, declare a law unconstitutional. • The federal court system and Supreme Court

8. Checks and Balances • The system by which each branch of government is given power over other branches.

9. Checks and Balances Congress can: • Refuse to pass a bill • Override a veto • Refuse to ratify a treaty or Presidential appointment • Impeach a Judge or President

10. Checks and Balances The President can: • Veto a law • Refuse to comply or enforce a law

11. Checks and Balances Judicial Branch can: • Declare a law unconstitutional • Has a lifetime tenure of office