Final answer:
Ruling is an example of checks and balances because it allows the judicial branch to limit or invalidate the actions of the legislative and executive branches, ensuring no single branch becomes too powerful.
Step-by-step explanation:
The term "ruling" in the context of checks and balances refers to the judicial branch's ability to interpret laws and, if necessary, to invalidate legislation or executive actions deemed unconstitutional. The system of checks and balances is a fundamental principle of American government designed to ensure that no single branch becomes too powerful. Checks and balances are likened to a game of rock, paper, scissors because each branch of government has abilities that can limit or check the powers of the others, thereby maintaining a balance of power.
The Constitution created a federal government with separate executive, legislative, and judicial branches. Each branch has its own powers and responsibilities that interact with and limit the other branches. For instance, while the president can appoint judges, these appointments must be approved by the Senate. Similarly, the president can veto Congressional laws, but vetoes can be overridden by a two-thirds vote in both houses of Congress. Moreover, Congress has the power to impeach and remove the president from office. The judicial review process further reinforces this balance by allowing courts to examine the constitutionality of legislative acts and executive decisions.
An educated opinion on how ruling exemplifies checks and balances would highlight how the judicial branch's responsibility to interpret the law includes the duty to examine and potentially overturn decisions made by the legislative and executive branches. This process ensures that all government actions comply with the Constitution, which is concurrently scrutinized by law experts, the public, and the media. Therefore, judicial rulings serve as an essential aspect of the checks and balances system by safeguarding against overreach by the other branches of government.