Final answer:
A judge has the greatest authority to overturn a mandate, as judges can review and overturn orders or directives if found unconstitutional or legally flawed, utilizing judicial review.
Step-by-step explanation:
Among the options provided (A teacher, B parent, C judge, D friend), C) A judge would have the greatest authority to overturn a mandate. In a legal context, mandates can be orders from higher courts, government directives, or administrative instructions. Judges, particularly those in higher courts, have the judicial power to review and potentially overturn these types of mandates if they are found to be unconstitutional or legally flawed. This authority is grounded in the principle of judicial review.
Examples from Political Context:
- A bill passed by the state legislature typically enacts laws rather than overturning mandates.
- Decisions by the state Supreme Court can overturn term limits, which is an example of how judges have authority in such matters.
- Voter referendums and governor's decrees also play roles in political processes, but they are not acted by judges.