Separation of Powers

Checks and Balances

How do these
principles of
democracy protect
the people?

Separation of
Powers
Dividing different powers

among three branches of

government
Prevents one branch from
gaining too much power
Legislative, Judicial, and
Executive branches have their
own unique powers

Purpose of the 3 Branches

Legislative Branch
Exists to create, amend, and repeal laws
that provide structure and order to
society.

Purpose of the 3 Branches

Executive Branch
To implement and enforce laws.

Purpose of the 3 Branches

Judicial Branch
To interpret and exercise the law.

Analysis

Why is it important to
separate the powers
of the government?
Think about the other
principles of
democracy

Checks and
Balances
Powers each branch has that

allows them to check up on the

other branches
Prevents branches from abusing
their powers
Preserves the separation of
powers
Requires cooperation between the
branches of government

Legislative Branch
(House and Senate)
Can override a presidential veto
Can impeach and remove the president
Ratifies presidential appointments
Authorizes/appropriates funds for
legislation
Checks on the judiciary
Can impeach and remove judges
Confirms federal judges

Executive Branch
(President and Cabinet)

Proposes legislation (laws)

Vetoes legislation (laws)
Makes treaties w/ foreign
countries
Checks on the judiciary
Appoints federal judges
Enforces court decisions

Judicial Branch

(Supreme Court and Lower

Courts)

Reviews executive decisions

Checks on Congress
Reviews congressional laws
Judicial Review (executive and
legislative)
Supreme Court Justices
appointed for life

Elastic Clause
Also referred to as the Necessary and

Proper Clause
The Congress shall have Power ... To make
all Laws which shall be necessary and
proper for carrying into Execution the
foregoing Powers, and all other Powers
vested by this Constitution in the
Government of the United States, or in any
Department or Officer thereof.

Analysis
What are some problems with the

checks and balances system?

The Constitution is vague in some
parts of these powers. How can this
cause a problem for each branch?
How does this system promote
cooperation between the branches of
government?
Which branch has the most power?
Why?