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

The mechanism that prevents one branch of government from becoming too powerful is checks and balances. This system is a fundamental principle of the United States Constitution designed to ensure that power is distributed and balanced among the legislative, executive, and judicial branches of government. Each branch has the authority to limit the powers of the others, creating a framework where no single branch can dominate or exert unchecked power.

For example, the legislative branch can create laws, but the executive branch has the power to veto those laws. Meanwhile, the judicial branch can review the constitutionality of laws passed by the legislature and actions taken by the executive. This interplay fosters accountability and prevents the abuse of power.

Other options, such as separation of powers, refer to the distinct division of governmental authority among branches, while majority rule involves decision-making based on the majority's choice, which does not specifically prevent power concentration in one branch. Judicial review, on the other hand, specifically pertains to the courts' ability to interpret the law and assess the constitutionality of legislative and executive actions, meaning it is one of the tools within the checks and balances framework rather than the overarching mechanism itself.