Which statement best articulates the concept of checks and balances?

The concept of checks and balances is fundamentally about ensuring that no single branch of government becomes too powerful. This system allows each branch—the executive, legislative, and judicial—to monitor and limit the functions of the others. The statement that "each branch of government can veto decisions made by the others" accurately captures this principle, as it illustrates how the branches interact to provide oversight and accountability. For instance, the executive branch (the President) has the power to veto legislation passed by Congress, while Congress can override that veto with a two-thirds majority vote. Similarly, the judicial branch can declare laws or presidential actions unconstitutional, thus providing a check on the powers of the other branches.

Other options do not accurately reflect the concept of checks and balances. While Congress can amend the Constitution, that process is not primarily about checking the powers of other branches. The statement about the President declaring war does not emphasize checks and balances, as it overlooks the constitutional requirement for congressional approval for a declaration of war in most circumstances. Lastly, the supremacy of state governments over federal laws contradicts the principle established by the Supremacy Clause of the Constitution, which establishes federal law as the supreme law of the land. This context helps clarify why the first statement is the most accurate representation of