When the Supreme Court makes a ruling on a case that serves to interpret a law passed by Congress, it is an example of checks and balances. Explanation:
- This power of the Supreme Court to interpret laws is a key aspect of the system of checks and balances established by the U.S. Constitution. The judiciary has the authority to review laws passed by the legislative branch (Congress) and determine their constitutionality, ensuring that no branch of government exceeds its powers.
- It is not an example of presidential veto, which refers to the President's power to reject a bill passed by Congress.
- It is not an example of popular sovereignty, which is the principle that the government's authority is derived from the consent of the people.
- Habeas corpus is a legal principle that protects against unlawful detention, unrelated to judicial interpretation of laws.
Thus, the Supreme Court ruling interpreting a congressional law exemplifies the system of checks and balances among the branches of government.