What is the purpose of a system of checks and balances?

• A. A system that assigns all powers to the judiciary.
• B. A system in which each branch can limit the powers of the other branches to prevent the accumulation of power.
• C. A system that ensures a single party controls government.
• D. A system that prohibits citizen participation.

Answer: (B)

Balancing power among the branches to prevent any one part of government from becoming too powerful. The idea is that Congress makes laws, the President enforces them, and the courts interpret and apply them, with each branch having tools to limit the others. For example, the President can veto legislation, Congress can override a veto with a large majority, and the courts can strike down laws or executive actions that don’t fit the Constitution. This structure protects liberty by encouraging accountability and preventing the accumulation of unchecked authority. Descriptions that consolidate power in a single branch or restrict citizen participation don’t fit the system designed to keep government in check.