What does the principle of checks and balances ensure?

The principle of checks and balances is a fundamental aspect of the U.S. government designed to prevent any one branch from gaining too much power and thereby threatening the democratic framework of the system. Under this principle, each of the three branches of government—executive, legislative, and judicial—has the authority to limit the powers of the others. This creates a system of mutual oversight where, for example, the executive branch can veto legislation, legislative bodies can confirm or reject nominations and overturn vetoes, and the judicial branch can interpret laws and declare them unconstitutional.

This structure ensures that power is shared and that the actions of one branch are subject to review and constraint by the others, promoting accountability and preventing the misuse of power. Thus, the essence of checks and balances directly correlates with the notion that no branch of government overtakes another, making it the correct choice in this context.