Question

What is the difference between checks and balances and separation of powers? Congress (legislative

branch) overriding a veto from the President (Executive branch) is an example of which of the 2?

Answer 1

Checks and Balances- Refers to the checks each branch has over one another, to stop one from accumulating too much power, for instance the veto (E), impeachment (L), and judicial review (J).

Separation of Powers refers to different governmental functions being delegated to different branches. It is intended to prevent too much power being concentrated in one branch, for instance, Congress (L) has the power to declare war, and the President (E) is the Commander-in-Chief of the military.

Therefore, the veto override is an example of a check and balance.