Checks and Balances
Definition
This is a system in the U.S. government where each branch (executive, legislative, judicial) has powers that can limit or check the powers of the other branches to prevent any one branch from becoming too powerful.
Analogy
Think of checks and balances like a game of rock-paper-scissors. Each item can defeat another but can also be defeated by something else. Just as rock crushes scissors but is covered by paper, each branch of government has power over another but can also be checked by another.
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 held by the President to reject a decision or proposal made by Congress.
Judicial Review: The ability of the Supreme Court to declare an act of Congress unconstitutional.
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