Final answer:
The U.S. Government is divided into three branches: the legislative branch makes laws and includes Congress; the executive branch enforces laws and is led by the President; and the judicial branch interprets laws and is headlined by the Supreme Court.
Step-by-step explanation:
Three Branches of Government
The United States Government is founded on the principle of federalism, where power is divided among three distinct branches: the legislative, executive, and judicial branches. This separation of powers ensures a system of checks and balances, so no single branch becomes too powerful.
Legislative Branch
- The legislative branch is outlined in Article I of the Constitution and is responsible for making laws. It is composed of two houses: the Senate and the House of Representatives.
- Senators serve six-year terms, and members of the House serve two-year terms.
- The legislative branch has the power to declare war, levy taxes, and regulate commerce.
Executive Branch
Article II of the Constitution establishes the executive branch, which is responsible for enforcing laws. It is headed by the President, who serves a four-year term.
- The President is also Commander-in-Chief of the armed forces and has the authority to veto bills.
- The executive branch includes independent executive agencies that enforce and regulate government policies.
Judicial Branch
Article III sets up the judicial branch, whose primary function is to interpret the Constitution and evaluate laws.
- The highest court is the Supreme Court, whose justices serve for life or until they choose to retire.
- The judicial branch has the power to oversee court cases that interpret guaranteed rights and ensure due process.