1.6 - Principles of American Government

Learning Objective

Explain the constitutional principles and implications of separation of powers and “checks and balances.”

Essential Knowledge

The powers allocated to Congress, the president, and the courts demonstrate the separation of powers and checks and balances features of the Constitution.

Federalist No. 51 explains how constitutional provisions of separation of powers and checks and balances control abuses by majorities.

Multiple access points for stakeholders and institutions to influence public policy flows from the separation of powers and checks and balances.

Impeachment, removal, and other legal actions taken against public officials deemed to have abused their power reflect the purpose of checks and balances.