Question

it is equally evident, that the members of each department should be as little dependent as possible on those of the others...were the executive magistrate, or the judges, not independent of the legislature in this particular, their independence in every other would be merely nominal. - federalist no. 51
which constitutional principle is described in the quotation?

• federalism
• due process
• judicial review
• separation of powers

Explanation:

The quotation from Federalist No. 51 emphasizes that each department (branch of government) should be as independent as possible from the others. Federalism is about the division of power between national and state governments, so it's not this. Due process relates to fair legal procedures, not department independence. Judicial review is the power of courts to review laws, which is not the focus here. Separation of powers involves dividing government into branches (executive, legislative, judicial) and ensuring they are independent to prevent tyranny, matching the quotation's message.

Answer:

D. separation of powers