What is the purpose of checks and balances in the U.S. government?

The purpose of checks and balances in the U.S. government is to maintain a balance of power among the different branches of government—executive, legislative, and judicial. This system was designed by the framers of the Constitution to prevent any single branch from becoming too powerful and to establish a method for each branch to monitor and limit the actions of the others.

For example, while the legislative branch makes laws, the executive branch has the power to veto those laws, and the judicial branch can declare laws unconstitutional. This interplay ensures that power is distributed and that each branch has a role in governing, thus protecting against tyranny and promoting accountability within the government. This principle is fundamental to the functioning of American democracy, as it encourages collaboration and prevents abuses of power.