Final answer:
The correct example of checks and balances is option ‘c,’ where the Supreme Court rules a law passed by Congress unconstitutional, depicting the judiciary's power to check the legislative branch.
Step-by-step explanation:
The concept of checks and balances in the United States government is a system that ensures no one branch becomes too powerful, with each branch having some measure of influence over the other. For instance, the legislative branch can exert a check on the judiciary by requiring Senate approval for the appointment of justices and federal judges, and it can alter the federal court structure and appellate jurisdiction. Additionally, Congress has the authority to impeach judges and the power to override a presidential veto with a two-thirds majority vote in both the House and Senate, which serves as an important check on the executive branch.
Based on the given options, the correct example of a check and balance system would be:
- c. The Supreme Court rules a law passed by Congress unconstitutional
This illustrates the judicial branch's ability to check the legislative branch by reviewing the constitutionality of its laws.