Explain why the separation of powers and the system of checks and balances are i

Question

Explain why the separation of powers and the system of checks and balances are important for our democracy. Provide recent, real-world examples of the separation of powers and checks/balances in action (one example each). Fully respond to all parts of the prompt and write your response in your own words. Your initial post must be at least 300 words. Support your position with at least two of the assigned resources required for this discussion, and/or peer reviewed scholarly sources. Include APA in-text citations in the body of your post and references at the end. Support your position with APA citations from two or more scholarly resources.

Explanation / Answer

The separation of powers of the Constitution was designed to prevent the majority from ruling with an iron fist. The separation of powers provides a system of shared powers and balances known as Checks and Balances. The Founding Fathers knew that the accumulation of power by a single person is the greatest threat to liberty, hence the doctrine of separation of powers came into existence. Three branches were created under shared powers, namely, the Legislative which comprised of the House and Senate, The Executive, composed of The President, Vice Presidents and the Departments, and The Judicial, composed of the federal courts and the Supreme Court.

In the American example, each of these three branches has certain powers, but limited, or checked by another branch. For example, the President appoints judges and departmental secretaries, but these appointments have to approved by the Senate. The Congress can pass a law, but the President can veto it. The Supreme Court can rule a law as unconstitutional, but the Congress, with the States, can amend the Constitution.

(Sourced from usconsitution.net & law.cornell.edu)

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