1. Checks and Balances
September 26, 2017

2. Checks and Balances
The overlapping of the powers of the branches of government designed to ensure that public officials limit the authority of one another.

3. Separation of Powers Why did the framers create this mess?
Does this appear to you to be an efficient decision-making system?
Why or why not?
To protect liberty

4. Military Power
How does the Constitution divide military power among the branches of government?

5. Military Power President is commander in chief Congress declares war
Congress raises and supports armies and a navy

6. Legislative Power Congress President Passes legislation
Can override the veto with a two-thirds vote
Can veto legislation

7. Diplomatic Power President Congress Negotiates treaties
Has the power of diplomatic recognition
Appoints ambassadors
Senate must ratify treaties by two-thirds’ vote
Senate must confirm appointments by majority vote

8. Quiz
According to the Constitution, who has authority to declare war?
Congress
President
Supreme Court
Both congress and the president must agree. A

9. What You Have Learned What is checks and balances?
Why did the framers create a checks and balances system?
How does the Constitution divide military power? Legislative power? Diplomatic power?