2.4 Understanding the Federal Government

The federal government of the United States is designed to handle national and international issues, ensuring a unified approach to governance across the country. It is organized into three branches: legislative, executive, and judicial.

The legislative branch, known as Congress, holds the power of the purse and is responsible for making laws. The power of the purse refers to Congress’s authority to control government spending and allocate funds. Congress is divided into two parts: the House of Representatives and the Senate. Representatives and senators are elected by the people and work to pass laws that address national concerns such as defense, taxation, and interstate commerce.   

The executive branch is headed by the President, who is responsible for enforcing the laws passed by Congress. The President also acts as the commander-in-chief of the armed forces and conducts foreign policy by negotiating treaties and representing the United States in international matters. The executive branch includes various federal agencies and departments, each tasked with specific functions, such as the Department of Education and the Department of Transportation, to implement and manage federal policies and programs.   

The judicial branch, led by the Supreme Court, interprets the laws and ensures they are applied fairly. The Supreme Court has the power to review laws and executive actions to determine if they are constitutional. This system of checks and balances among the three branches ensures that no single branch becomes too powerful, maintaining a balance of power that is fundamental to the democratic system of the United States. By understanding how the federal government works, citizens can better grasp how national decisions are made and how these decisions impact their lives.