How are the president's executive powers of clemency an example of checks and balances?

Question

Responses

Clemency can prevent the courts from making improper laws
Clemency can prevent the courts from making improper laws

Clemency can employ Congress to stop federal courts.
Clemency can employ Congress to stop federal courts.

Clemency can overturn federal court decisions.
Clemency can overturn federal court decisions.

Clemency can influence the way the federal courts will rule on a case

Answer 1

None of the given responses are an accurate explanation of how the president's executive powers of clemency are an example of checks and balances.

The correct answer is: The president's executive powers of clemency allow him to pardon or reduce the sentences of individuals convicted of federal crimes. This power serves as a check on the judicial branch because it allows the president to mitigate any potential abuses of the criminal justice system or injustices that may have occurred during a trial. However, the president's power of clemency is limited by the fact that it only applies to federal crimes and does not hold authority over state-level convictions.