1. Objective: To examine the nation’s system of checks and balances.
Supreme Court

2. Legislative Branch: Congress
Oh, yeah! I’m the President! It feels good being the most powerful person in the world!
Executive Branch
Hey, Mitch, does this guy think that the Executive Branch has all the power?
Judicial Branch
I don’t know, John, but I think we ought to give him a check that he’ll never forget!
Legislative Branch: Congress
Supreme Court

3. Executive Branch / President Legislative Branch / Congress
Checks and Balances
Congress can impeach the President. (2/3rd’s vote)
The Senate must approve all Presidential treaties. (2/3rd’s vote)
Congress can overturn a Presidential veto. (2/3rd’s vote)
Executive Branch / President
The President must approve all of Congress’ bills before they become laws.
The President can veto bills.
Legislative Branch / Congress

4. Schoolhouse Rock – “I’m Just a Bill”

5. Impeachment of President Bill Clinton

6. Executive Branch / President Judicial Branch / Courts
Checks and Balances
The Supreme Court can declare Presidential actions to be unconstitutional.
Executive Branch / President
The President appoints all federal judges, including Supreme Court justices.
Judicial Branch / Courts

7. Judicial Branch / Courts Legislative Branch / Congress
Checks and Balances
Video: Review
The Senate must approve all of the President’s choices for judges.
Congress can impeach federal judges.
Judicial Branch / Courts
The Supreme Court can declare laws to be unconstitutional.
Legislative Branch / Congress