The U.S. constitutional government is designed incorporating the following principles:
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The three branches of government can check and balance each other. - This is a fundamental principle of the U.S. government, designed to prevent any one branch from becoming too powerful.
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Powers not given to the federal government are reserved to the states. - This is in line with the Tenth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, which reserves powers not expressly delegated to the federal government to the states and the people.
The following statements are not accurate representations of the U.S. constitutional government design:
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The judicial system is controlled by the legislature. - This is incorrect as the judicial system operates independently from the legislative branch.
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Each citizen is given equal representation in each branch of government. - While each citizen has representation through elected officials, the structure of representation varies (e.g., the Senate has equal representation for states, while the House of Representatives has representation based on population).
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State governments, not the federal government, determine the rights of citizens. - This is misleading; while states can determine certain rights, the federal government also plays a significant role in protecting citizens' rights (for example, through federal laws and the Bill of Rights).
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The federal government needs the approval of states in order to join international organizations. - This is not correct; the federal government has the authority to conduct foreign affairs and join international organizations.
In summary, the correct choices are:
- The three branches of government can check and balance each other.
- Powers not given to the federal government are reserved to the states.