Slide 2:
Supreme Court Executive Branch Oh, yeah! I’m the President! It feels good being the most powerful person in the world! Hey, Mitch, does this guy think that the Executive Branch has all the power? I don’t know, John, but I think we ought to give him a check that he’ll never forget! Judicial Branch Legislative Branch: Congress
Slide 3:
Who else is going to put a check on your power? Ummm…was it necessary to check me that hard? Yes! It’s a part of our responsibilities! Okay. But remember that I’ve got a few checks of my own, and I’m ready to use them!
Slide 4:
Checks and Balances Legislative Branch / Congress Executive Branch / President The President must approve all of Congress’ bills before they become laws. The President can veto bills. Congress can overturn a Presidential veto. (2/3rd’s vote) The Senate must approve all Presidential treaties. (2/3rd’s vote) Congress can impeach the President. (2/3rd’s vote)
Slide 5:
Schoolhouse Rock – “I’m Just a Bill”
Slide 6:
Impeachment of President Bill Clinton
Slide 7:
Checks and Balances Executive Branch / President The President appoints all federal judges, including Supreme Court justices. Judicial Branch / Courts The Supreme Court can declare Presidential actions to be unconstitutional.
Slide 8:
Legislative Branch / Congress The Senate must approve all of the President’s choices for judges. Congress can impeach federal judges. Judicial Branch / Courts Checks and Balances The Supreme Court can declare laws to be unconstitutional. Video: Review