Table of Contents
Congress plays a vital role in maintaining the balance of power within the United States government. It has several methods to check and limit the powers of the executive and judicial branches. These checks help ensure that no branch becomes too powerful.
Legislative Oversight
Congress monitors and supervises the executive branch through hearings, investigations, and reviews. This oversight ensures that laws are implemented properly and that government agencies operate within their authority.
Legislation and Budget Control
Congress has the power to create laws and control government spending. By passing new laws or withholding funding, Congress can influence or restrict executive actions.
Impeachment Power
Congress can impeach and remove federal officials, including the President, for misconduct. The House of Representatives initiates impeachment, and the Senate conducts the trial.
Checks on the Judiciary
Congress can modify the judiciary’s structure, approve or reject judicial appointments, and pass legislation to override judicial decisions in certain cases. These actions serve as checks on the judicial branch.