What mechanism prevents any one branch of government from becoming too powerful?

The mechanism that prevents any one branch of government from becoming too powerful is known as checks and balances. This system is fundamental to the structure of the United States government, including Arkansas, as it ensures that each branch—executive, legislative, and judicial—has the ability to limit the powers of the others. This interdependence creates a balance within the government, meaning that no single branch can dominate or misuse its power.

For instance, the legislative branch has the power to make laws, but the executive branch can veto those laws, while the judicial branch has the authority to interpret laws and can rule them unconstitutional. This interplay not only maintains equilibrium but also helps to protect the rights of citizens by preventing any government group from wielding unchecked authority.

While majority rule is a principle used in democratic decision-making, it does not directly govern the relationship between the branches of government. Voting rights are essential for citizen participation in democracy but are separate from the checks and balances framework. Executive orders allow the president to manage the operations of the federal government, but they can also be challenged or overridden by Congress or the courts, further illustrating the concept of checks and balances at work.