Table of Contents
The United States government is divided into three branches: the legislative, executive, and judicial. Each branch has specific powers and responsibilities that work together to ensure the law is fair and balanced. This separation of powers helps protect individual rights and prevents any one branch from becoming too powerful.
The Legislative Branch
The legislative branch, made up of Congress, creates laws. It consists of two parts: the House of Representatives and the Senate. Members of Congress debate and pass laws that affect the entire country. They also have the power to check the executive branch by approving budgets and overriding vetoes.
The Executive Branch
The executive branch is led by the President. It enforces laws passed by Congress. The President can also issue executive orders and appoint federal judges. This branch ensures that laws are implemented properly and can check the legislative branch through veto power.
The Judicial Branch
The judicial branch interprets laws and ensures they are applied fairly. It includes the Supreme Court and other federal courts. The courts have the power to review laws and executive actions to determine if they are constitutional. This helps protect individual rights and maintain the rule of law.
Checks and Balances
The system of checks and balances allows each branch to limit the powers of the others. For example, the President can veto laws, but Congress can override the veto. The courts can declare laws unconstitutional. This system helps keep the government fair and prevents abuse of power.