Principles of American Government Practice Test

Checks and balances, because shared appointment power prevents one branch from staffing courts unilaterally and encourages interbranch accountability.

Federalism, because states confirm all federal judges and the Senate plays only a symbolic role under the Tenth Amendment.

Hereditary rule, because judicial offices are passed through family lines, making confirmation unnecessary and ensuring permanent elite control.

Popular sovereignty, because citizens directly appoint judges by voting on each nominee in a national, binding confirmation election.

Complete separation of powers, because the Constitution forbids any branch from participating in another branch’s staffing or operations.