Which of the following is a classic example of checks and balances?

• A. The Senate confirms presidential appointments.
• B. The President vetoes legislation without constraint.
• C. The Supreme Court cannot review laws.
• D. States can veto federal laws.

Answer: (A)

Checks and balances means each branch can limit the powers of the others. The Senate’s role in confirming presidential appointments is a classic example because it directly constrains the President’s ability to fill key government roles, ensuring nominees are subject to the legislative branch’s scrutiny and approval. The other options misstate how power is distributed: a veto described as having no constraints ignores the override power Congress has, courts can review laws, and states cannot veto federal laws; all of these would not illustrate the typical balance that occurs when one branch checks another.