What is the process through which the Supreme Court reviews government actions for constitutionality?

Judicial review is the process through which the Supreme Court examines government actions to determine whether they align with the Constitution. This fundamental power allows the Court to ensure that legislative and executive actions do not violate constitutional principles or rights. The concept stems from the landmark case Marbury v. Madison in 1803, which established the authority of the judiciary to overrule legislation and actions deemed unconstitutional.

By exercising judicial review, the Supreme Court plays a crucial role in maintaining the checks and balances of the government, protecting civil liberties, and upholding the rule of law. This process affirms the Constitution as the supreme law of the land, ensuring that all government actions are subject to its standards.

The other options—legislative oversight, executive review, and policy analysis—represent different processes within government, but none encompass the specific function of the courts in evaluating the constitutionality of actions taken by the other branches of government. Legislative oversight involves the scrutiny of governmental actions by legislative bodies, executive review pertains to the examination of policies by the executive branch, and policy analysis focuses on assessing the effectiveness of public policies without the constitutional focus inherent in judicial review.