Government Checks and Balances
Definition
Checks and balances is a system that allows each branch of a government to amend or veto acts of another branch so as to prevent any one branch from exerting too much power.
Related terms
Separation of Powers: The division of governmental responsibilities into distinct branches to limit any one branch from exercising the core functions of another.
Veto Power: The power used by an officer of the state to unilaterally stop an official action.
Judicial Review: Review by the US Supreme Court of the constitutional validity of a legislative act.
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