Which term describes the process through which Congress assesses the legality of executive actions?

The process through which Congress assesses the legality of executive actions is known as legislative oversight. This term refers to the review, monitoring, and supervision of federal agencies, programs, and policy implementation by Congress. Legislative oversight is an essential function that ensures that the executive branch operates within the bounds of the law and adheres to the policies set forth by legislation.

Through hearings, investigations, and reports, Congress can evaluate how laws are being enforced or executed and can hold executive agencies accountable for their actions. This oversight function helps maintain a system of checks and balances, allowing Congress to limit potential abuses of power by the executive branch.

Other terms such as judicial review relate more specifically to the role of the judiciary in interpreting laws and determining the constitutionality of actions, while impeachment is a process focused on removing a president or other federal officials from office for misconduct. Executive privilege pertains to the right of the president to withhold information from Congress or the courts, but it does not describe the oversight process itself. This context clarifies why legislative oversight is the correct choice in this scenario.