Checks and Balances in the Framework of the Constitution

The United States Constitution designed a government with intent not to bestow too much power on any one man, or group. This was done in order to prevent another monarchy from occurring. As such, every major power outlined in the text has a counter to it. We know these as “checks and balances.” The result is an inefficient government, but one that requires almost unanimous agreement to move forward. The Legislative system, composing of the Senate and Congress, has a check on the Executive branch; they can override presidential vetoes, and they have the power to fund, as well as withhold funds. However, the President checks them right back with his own veto power, and his ability to call special sessions of Congress. The Judicial Branch checks the Executive branch by being generally free from the control of that branch, but they have to be appointed by the President first. This system, while sometimes convoluted, creates the best possible democratic government, one that requires the most amount of people saying ‘yes’.

Just like all great guiding texts, the Constitution is open for interpretation. It can be changed, depending on who reads it. There are a few ways one may go about altering the Constitution itself. One way is through an amendment that must be passed through every branch, receiving a majority of everyone’s approval. Another way is through a circumstantial change. Just like how most rights no longer exclusively belong to white male landowners, the Constitution’s meaning has been altered over time so that these rights apply to every American. Another way still is through judicial review. First brought into being after Marbury v. Madison, the judicial system may decide if a law is unconstitutional, but it is open to their interpretation of the text.

The Constitution is not set in stone. The founding fathers left ways that the people can alter the meaning of it, and they made sure that no one party could be in control. The result is a flexible document that guides a great nation to further heights.

References

Washington, G. 8 Mar 2014. <http://www.archives.gov/exhibits/charters/constitution_transcript.html>.

D.S. Lutz, . N.p.. Web. 8 Mar 2014. <http://www2.waketech.edu/blogs/elcivics/files/2011/03/summary-of-the-US-Constitution.pdf>.

Stedman, D . N.p., n.d. Web. 08 Mar. 2014. <http://www.nccs.net/checks-balances-limited-and-balanced-government.php>