GED Social Studies › Separation of Powers
The primary role of the Legislative Branch in American government is to __________.
make laws
enforce laws
interpret the Constitution
make amendments
negotiate foreign treaties
In the American government power is separated into three branches. The Legislative Branch makes laws, the Executive Branch carries out and enforces laws, and the Judicial Branch interprets whether or not laws violate the Constitution.
Which of these government positions is appointed rather than elected by the people?
Supreme Court Justice
President
Representative
Senator
None of these positions is appointed; they are all elected.
The President and both Houses of Congress are elected by a vote of the people. Supreme Court Justices, however, are appointed by Presidents. The appointment has to be approved by the Senate.
Which of the following is a power that the President of the United States may exercise as a check on the powers of Congress?
The President may veto a bill from Congress.
The President may appoint members of Congress.
The President may fire members of Congress.
The President may call for the election of a new Congress.
The President may rewrite Congressional legislation.
Perhaps despite the wishes of many Presidents who have battled oppositional Congresses, the President is not provided with any power to alter the membership of Congress by appointing or firing members, nor can the President call for new elections. The President also must abide by the laws that the Congress passes. Article I Section 7 of the US Constitution does, however, grant the President the power to refuse to sign a bill from Congress or to outright veto it. This power allows the President some power to oppose legislation they find unacceptable, but Congress can override a veto. Overriding a veto requires much higher support (2/3 "super-majority") within Congress for the bill.