AP U.S. Government and Politics Flashcards: Principles of American Government
Written by AP Content Team, Verified for 2026 AP Exams, Last updated: May 2026
Review key ideas with interactive flashcards. This set includes 11 cards to help you master important concepts.
What is the principle of checks and balances?
This principle allows each branch of government to check and balance the power of the other branches, using their specific delegated powers to do so.
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What is the principle of checks and balances?
This principle allows each branch of government to check and balance the power of the other branches, using their specific delegated powers to do so.
Which foundational document explains how separation of powers and checks and balances control potential abuses by majorities?
Federalist No. 51 explains how these constitutional provisions control potential abuses by majorities.
What is the principle of separation of powers?
It is the constitutional principle that delegates specific and separate powers to the three branches of government: legislative (Congress), executive (president), and judicial (courts).
What is the process for removing an impeached official from office?
An official is removed from office if they are convicted in an impeachment trial conducted by the Senate.
What is impeachment?
Impeachment is the process where the House of Representatives formally charges a public official with abuse of power or misconduct.
What is the primary goal of separating powers and implementing checks and balances?
The primary goal is to ensure that no single branch of government becomes too powerful.
How do separation of powers and checks and balances affect public policy creation?
These principles create multiple access points for stakeholders and institutions to influence public policy, as power is distributed across different branches.
Which two bodies are involved in the impeachment and removal process, and what are their respective roles?
The House of Representatives formally charges the official (impeachment), and the Senate holds the trial to determine conviction and removal.
If a stakeholder group wants to influence a new environmental regulation, how does separation of powers provide them with multiple access points?
They can lobby Congress which writes the laws, influence the president's administration which enforces them, or challenge the regulation in the courts which interpret the laws.
What is a major effect of having separation of powers and checks and balances in the U.S. political system?
A major effect is the prevention of any one branch from becoming too powerful and the creation of multiple ways for groups to influence policy.
How do checks and balances provide a mechanism to address abuse of power by a public official?
They allow for legal actions, including the House's power to impeach and the Senate's power to hold a trial for removal from office.