Which action exemplifies the system of checks and balances in the federal government?

The action that exemplifies the system of checks and balances in the federal government is the president's ability to veto bills passed by Congress. This power is a key component of the checks and balances system designed by the framers of the Constitution to prevent any one branch of government from becoming too powerful. When Congress passes a bill, it is not automatically enacted into law; the president has the authority to reject that bill through a veto. This serves as a check on legislative power, ensuring that the elected representatives in Congress cannot unilaterally impose laws without considering the executive branch's stance.

The veto power also illustrates the interplay between the legislative and executive branches, as Congress may attempt to override a presidential veto with a two-thirds majority vote in both the House of Representatives and the Senate. This dynamic fosters cooperation and negotiation between branches, instilling a sense of accountability and requiring consensus for significant legislative changes. Overall, this action maintains a balance of power among the branches of government, making it a prime example of how checks and balances operate in practice.