Which principle of the Constitution prevents any one branch of government from having too much control?

The principle that prevents any one branch of government from gaining excessive control is the system of Checks and Balances. This framework ensures that each branch of government—executive, legislative, and judicial—has specific powers and responsibilities, as well as the ability to monitor and limit the actions of the other branches. For instance, while the legislative branch makes laws, the executive can veto those laws, and the judiciary can declare laws unconstitutional. This system is designed to maintain a balance of power, promoting accountability and preventing the concentration of authority within any single entity.

In contrast, the other principles listed serve distinct functions. Judicial Review refers to the power of courts to assess whether laws and executive actions comply with the Constitution, but it is just one aspect of the broader checks and balances. Limited Government emphasizes restrictions on government powers as defined by law, ensuring that rights are protected and the government does not overreach its authority. Popular Sovereignty asserts that the government's power is derived from the consent of the governed, highlighting the importance of the people's will in a democratic society. While all these principles contribute to a well-functioning democracy, Checks and Balances is the key mechanism for preventing any one branch from becoming too powerful.