U.S. History STAAR ( State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness) Practice Test

What is an example of checks and balances?

1. The President can appoint judges

2. The Supreme Court cannot rule on laws

3. The President can veto a law passed by Congress

4. Congress can declare war without the President

The correct answer is: The President can veto a law passed by Congress

The concept of checks and balances is foundational to the U.S. government, meant to prevent any one branch from gaining too much power. The correct option illustrates this principle through the President's power to veto legislation. When Congress passes a law, the President has the authority to reject (or veto) that law, ensuring that the executive branch can check the legislative branch's authority. This balance requires Congress to reconsider the law, potentially leading to amendments or even the procurement of a two-thirds majority to override the veto. Other options do not adequately demonstrate checks and balances. The appointment of judges by the President, for example, illustrates the power of the executive branch but does not inherently reflect a check on another branch's power. The claim that the Supreme Court cannot rule on laws is misleading, as the Court indeed has the jurisdiction to interpret laws. Lastly, Congress declaring war without the President overlooks the necessary collaboration between branches, as the War Powers Act and constitutional provisions require consultation and authorization from the executive in military matters, showcasing a restriction of unchecked congressional power.