What is designed to prevent one branch of government from becoming too powerful?

The concept designed to prevent one branch of government from becoming too powerful is called checks and balances. This principle is rooted in the foundational structure of the U.S. government, where power is divided among the executive, legislative, and judicial branches. Each branch has specific powers and responsibilities, as well as mechanisms to monitor and limit the actions of the others. This means that even if one branch tries to expand its power, the other branches can intervene and counteract, ensuring that no single branch can dominate the government.

For instance, while Congress may pass laws (legislative power), the President can veto legislation (executive power), and the courts can interpret laws and declare them unconstitutional (judicial power). This intricate system fosters a balance of authority, protecting democracy and individual rights by preventing any single group from gaining unchecked power. The other options reflect important aspects of government operation, but they do not specifically illustrate the system established to maintain balance among government branches like checks and balances does.