What power allows the Supreme Court to declare laws unconstitutional?

• A. Judicial precedent
• B. Judicial review
• C. Legislative oversight
• D. Executive order

Answer: (B)

The power that allows the Supreme Court to declare laws unconstitutional is known as judicial review. This principle was established in the landmark case of Marbury v. Madison in 1803, where Chief Justice John Marshall asserted the role of the Supreme Court in interpreting the Constitution and ensuring that acts of Congress or state legislatures do not violate constitutional provisions. Judicial review serves as a check on the legislative and executive branches, empowering the court to overturn laws or actions that it finds to be inconsistent with the Constitution. This crucial power reinforces the rule of law and the principle of separation of powers, ensuring that no branch of government exceeds its authority.