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US Government: Branches, Checks, and Balances

Civics flashcards — separation of powers, key checks, and federal vs state authority sketch.

12 cards· by GuruOwl

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  1. 01
    What are the three branches of the US federal government?
    Legislative (Congress), Executive (President), Judicial (courts).
    branches
  2. 02
    Primary function of the legislative branch?
    Make laws (statutes), appropriate funds, declare war, oversee executive (impeachment, hearings).
    legislative
  3. 03
    Primary function of the executive branch?
    Enforce/execute laws; commander-in-chief; foreign affairs; appointments (with Senate).
    executive
  4. 04
    Primary function of the judicial branch?
    Interpret laws and the Constitution; resolve cases and controversies; judicial review.
    judicial
  5. 05
    What is a presidential veto and how can Congress override?
    President rejects a bill; Congress can override with 2/3 of both houses.
    checks
  6. 06
    What is Senate advice and consent?
    Senate confirmation power over many presidential appointments and treaties (treaties 2/3).
    checks
  7. 07
    What is judicial review (Marbury idea)?
    Courts can invalidate laws/actions that violate the Constitution.
    judicial
  8. 08
    How does impeachment work at a high level?
    House impeaches (charges); Senate tries; conviction removes from office (2/3 Senate).
    checks
  9. 09
    Bicameral Congress means what?
    Two chambers: House of Representatives and Senate.
    legislative
  10. 10
    Federalism in one line?
    Power divided between national and state governments.
    federalism
  11. 11
    What does the Supremacy Clause establish?
    The Constitution and valid federal laws are supreme over conflicting state law.
    federalism
  12. 12
    Example of checks and balances (courts ↔ executive)?
    Courts can strike executive actions; president nominates judges; Senate confirms.
    checks