POLS210

POLS210


Our government’s system of checks and balances is guaranteed by the Constitution’s separation of powers among the three branches. This system has protected the people from tyranny, and the states from federal overreaching. Its purpose is to make certain that either no one or political party gains too much power. This system guarantees every civilian that their rights are secure, and that representation is required for those citizens by the government. The Constitution of the United States is our foundation of rules and regulations.
These three divisions of government are the Executive, Legislative, and Judicial branches. The Executive branch is made up of the President and his administration. This branch is designated to implement new laws and operate the government. The Legislative branch, consisting of Congress, is taxed with setting the laws in to writing. The Judicial branch consists of the Supreme Court and all of the lower courts. This branch of government explains those laws. Each branch has its own equal and fair amount of control over the other. The process starts with Congress composing a bill, the President either signs that bill turning it in to law, or will veto it. If vetoed, Congress can then take another vote on that bill. If more than two-thirds of its members support it, the veto is overturned and the bill becomes law (Americapedia, 2010).
Congress has some power to challenge the President. Aside from ensuring the President’s morality and trustworthiness are being upheld, it has to approve of the President's expenses, declare war, and to accept treaties signed by the President with foreign countries. The Supreme Court, made up of Judges nominated by the President but approved over proceedings by Congress, can tell Congress whether or not a law passed is unconstitutional (Monk). These judges can also decided whether or not a President’s actions are unconstitutional. Congress and the Supreme Court ensure the President’s behavior is not...