The document outlines the branches of the US Federal Government and how they provide checks and balances on each other. It discusses how Congress passes laws that the President can veto but Congress can override. The President nominates judges and ambassadors that require Congressional approval. The President negotiates treaties and commands the military but requires Congressional authorization. The Supreme Court can determine if laws and executive actions are constitutional.

1. Branches of the Federal Government House of Representatives Two year terms Senate Six year terms Executive (President) Four year terms (2 max) Supreme Court Appointed for life

2. Checks and Balances

3. Executive / Legislative Balance 1. Congress passes A law 2. President _veto’s_____ __law____________ ______________ 3. Congress can_____ ____override veto w/ 2/3 vote _____________ _________________

4. Executive / Legislative Balance President appoints / nominates Judges, ambassadors Cabinet members and Military leaders 2. Congress __approves____ ______them__________ ________________

5. Executive / Legislative Balance President negotiates Treaties with other nations 2. Congress ______ ____approves them_____ _________________ _________________

6. Executive / Legislative Balance President commands the military 2. Only Congress ______ _can declare war______ _________________ _________________

7. Executive / Legislative Balance President is the ____Commander___________ ___In___ ___Chief_________ of the military 2. Congress authorizes ___Payment or budget for the military _________________ _________________

8. Executive / Legislative Balance President has great powers of authority within the government 2. Congress may: Impeach The President

9. Legislative / Judicial Balance Congress passes laws Supreme Court: Determines if those laws are constitutional

10. Legislative / Judicial Balance President makes an Executive action (e.g. Sends the Army in to ensure desegregation in Alabama schools) Supreme Court_______ _Block action________ ______________________