2. Which governmental action illustrates the system of checks and balances? a. Congress raising taxes to pay for federal programs b. a senator helping a governor solve a state problem c. the president negotiating a trade agreement d. the Senate ratifying a peace treaty 3. Granting a pardon , reprieve, or amnesty is an example of. __ a. L __ c. J __ b. E - L d. E __

## Step1<br />The system of checks and balances is a fundamental principle in the U.S. Constitution. This system ensures that each branch of government can limit the powers of the other branches. This is done to prevent any one branch from becoming too powerful.<br /><br />## Step2<br />Looking at the options, we need to identify which one best illustrates this system. Option d, "the Senate ratifying a peace treaty", is the best example of this system. This is because the Senate, which is part of the legislative branch, has the power to ratify treaties, which is a power that the executive branch does not have.<br /><br />## Step3<br />The power to grant a pardon, reprieve, or amnesty is an example of the executive power of the President. This power is not explicitly mentioned in the Constitution, but it is considered an implied power.<br /><br />## Step4<br />Looking at the options, we need to identify which one best represents this power. Option b, "E - L", is the best representation of this power. This is because the President's power to grant pardons, reprieves, or amnesty is an example of the executive power of the President.