What mechanism prevents one branch of government from becoming too powerful?

The mechanism that prevents one branch of government from becoming too powerful is checks and balances. This system is foundational in U.S. government and is designed to ensure that no single branch—executive, legislative, or judicial—can dominate the others. Each branch has specific powers and responsibilities, and they can influence each other in various ways.

For instance, the legislative branch has the power to make laws, but the executive branch has the authority to veto those laws. Conversely, the judiciary can declare laws unconstitutional, effectively checking the powers of both the executive and legislative branches. This interdependency reinforces the balance of power within the government, ensuring that authority is not concentrated in one branch, which is essential for protecting democratic principles.

By implementing checks and balances, the Framers of the Constitution aimed to create a system that safeguards against tyranny and promotes accountability and cooperation among branches.