U.S. Citizenship Civics TestSystem of GovernmentMedium
A group of new citizens is discussing the powers of the U.S. government. Which of the following accurately describes the power of 'judicial review'?
- AThe power of the Supreme Court to declare laws unconstitutional.
- BThe power of state courts to review federal court decisions.
- CThe power of the President to veto legislation passed by Congress.
- DThe power of Congress to impeach federal judges.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. The power of the Supreme Court to declare laws unconstitutional.
Judicial review is the Supreme Court's authority to determine if a law or government action violates the U.S. Constitution. This power was established in the landmark case Marbury v. Madison (1803).
Why the other options are wrong
- B. State courts do not have the power to review federal court decisions; the federal judicial system is hierarchical.
- C. This describes the presidential veto, a check on the legislative branch.
- D. This describes the impeachment power of Congress, a check on the judicial and executive branches.
Judicial Review
The power of the U.S. courts to examine the constitutionality of legislative and executive actions.
- Established by the Supreme Court case Marbury v. Madison (1803).
- Allows the judicial branch to act as a check on the other two branches.
- Ensures that laws and government actions comply with the Constitution.
Memory trick: Judicial Review: Judges 'review' for righteousness.