What is an example of a check on power within the U.S. government?

The concept of checks and balances is a fundamental principle in the U.S. government designed to ensure that no single branch becomes too powerful. The ability of Congress to override a Presidential veto is a perfect illustration of this principle in action.

When the President vetoes a bill, Congress can still enact that bill into law if they achieve a two-thirds majority in both the House of Representatives and the Senate. This power to override the veto serves as a check on the President's legislative authority. It ensures that the executive branch cannot unilaterally block legislation that has support from a significant majority of elected representatives.

This mechanism reflects the framers' intention to distribute power and maintain a balance between the legislative and executive branches, preventing any one branch from exerting undue influence over the legislative process. It highlights the importance of collaboration and negotiation between branches and upholds the principle of representative government.