balance of powers

Branches of the Federal Government

House of RepresentativesTwo year terms

SenateSix year terms

Executive (President)Four year terms (2 max)

Supreme CourtAppointed for life

Checks and Balances

Executive / Legislative Balance

1. Congress passes A law

2. President _veto’s_______law__________________________

3. Congress can_________override veto w/ 2/3 vote ______________________________

Executive / Legislative Balance1. President appoints / nominates Judges, ambassadorsCabinet members and Military leaders

2. Congress __approves__________them__________________________

Executive / Legislative Balance1. President negotiates Treaties with other nations

2. Congress __________approves them_______________________________________

Executive / Legislative Balance1. President commands the military

2. Only Congress _______can declare war________________________________________

Executive / Legislative Balance1. President is the ____Commander______________In______Chief_________of the military

2. Congress authorizes___Payment or budget for the military__________________________________

Executive / Legislative Balance1. President has great powers of authoritywithin the government

2. Congress may: ImpeachThe President

Legislative / Judicial Balance1. Congress passes laws

2. Supreme Court: Determines if those laws are constitutional

Legislative / Judicial Balance1. President makes an Executive action (e.g.Sends the Army in to ensure desegregationin Alabama schools)

2. Supreme Court________Block action________

______________________