What does the concept of judicial review allow the Supreme Court to do?

The concept of judicial review allows the Supreme Court to evaluate the constitutionality of laws, which means the Court has the authority to determine whether legislation or executive actions are consistent with the Constitution. This power was established in the landmark case Marbury v. Madison in 1803, which set the precedent for the Court's role as a check on the legislative and executive branches of government. By being able to declare laws or government actions unconstitutional, the Supreme Court plays a crucial role in upholding the supremacy of the Constitution and ensuring that no branch of government exceeds its constitutional authority. This power is fundamental to the system of checks and balances designed by the framers of the Constitution, ensuring that individual rights are protected and that the rule of law is maintained.