Question

question 12 of 20
the supreme court serves what important function in the u.s. federal government?

a. it appoints all other federal judges to ensure consistent rulings at all levels.
b. it promotes the principle of limited government by consistently practicing judicial restraint.
c. it exercises a check on the president with its ability to override a veto.
d. it has original jurisdiction over, and therefore the power to resolve,
disputes between states.

Explanation:

• Option A: Federal judges are nominated by the president and confirmed by the Senate, not appointed by the Supreme Court. Eliminate A.
• Option B: The Supreme Court does not consistently practice judicial restraint; it sometimes uses judicial activism. Also, promoting limited government isn't its main function defined this way. Eliminate B.
• Option C: Overriding a veto is a power of Congress (2/3 vote in both houses), not the Supreme Court. Eliminate C.
• Option D: The Supreme Court has original jurisdiction over cases between states (as per the U.S. Constitution), so it can resolve disputes between states. This is correct.

Answer:

D. It has original jurisdiction over, and therefore the power to resolve, disputes between states.