Which of the following characterizes how the power of judicial review acts as a check on the legislative and executive branches?

The power of judicial review serves as a crucial mechanism for maintaining the supremacy of the Constitution in the United States legal system. By allowing courts to nullify laws that conflict with the Constitution, judicial review ensures that all legislative and executive actions adhere to constitutional principles and safeguards individual rights.

When courts identify a law as unconstitutional, they do not merely reject that particular law; they reinforce the foundational legal framework of the nation. This power acts as a strong check against both legislative overreach and executive actions, preventing either branch from enacting or enforcing laws that could undermine constitutional protections. In essence, judicial review operates as a guardian of the Constitution, ensuring that all branches of government remain accountable to the rule of law.

In this context, the choices relate to different aspects of government powers, but only the correct answer accurately captures the essential role of judicial review in upholding the Constitution and maintaining a balance of power among the government branches. Other options do not fully capture the nature of judicial review as it specifically pertains to the ability to nullify laws in line with constitutional standards.