Question

which of the following is an example of how separation of powers creates friction between the executive and legislative branches in the policy - making process?
a the electoral college vote ends with no candidate receiving a majority of the votes, and the house of representatives is delegated the task of selecting the next president.

b the senate votes to impeach a sitting president for high crimes and misdemeanors.

c the secretary of state is dispatched along with a delegation of senators to negotiate a treaty with a foreign government.

d the president threatens to issue an executive order to address climate concerns if congress continues to refuse to take action.

Explanation:

• Option A describes a presidential election contingency, not policy-making friction between branches.
• Option B involves impeachment, a check on executive power but not routine policy-making friction.
• Option C shows inter-branch cooperation on treaty negotiations, not friction.
• Option D illustrates friction: the executive (president) uses the threat of an executive order to push the legislative (Congress) to act on climate policy, a direct conflict in the policy-making process due to separated powers.

Answer:

D. The president threatens to issue an executive order to address climate concerns if Congress continues to refuse to take action.