How Government Works

The U.S. federal government is divided into three separate branches—legislative, executive, and judicial—each with distinct powers and responsibilities. This separation of powers, established by the Constitution, ensures that no single branch becomes too powerful and creates a system of checks and balances where each branch can limit the authority of the others.

The Legislative Branch: Making Laws and Controlling the Purse

Congress—comprising the Senate and House of Representatives—has the power to write, debate, and pass laws, declare war, regulate interstate commerce, and levy taxes. One of Congress’s most powerful tools is its control over federal funding. Congress uses appropriations riders to control agency operations and can mandate specific policies through spending bills. Congress also confirms cabinet appointments and federal judges, and retains constitutional authority over trade policy.

The Executive Branch: Enforcing Laws and Running Agencies

The President and executive branch agencies enforce federal laws and manage government operations. However, the President’s power is not unlimited. Some agencies are legally structured to be independent from direct presidential control. Congress created agencies the President cannot fire at will, and the Federal Reserve maintains independence through law.

The Judicial Branch: Interpreting Laws and Constitutional Limits

The Supreme Court and federal courts interpret laws and determine whether government actions comply with the Constitution. Supreme Court decisions sometimes take months to release, and federal agencies have 30 days to respond to Court rulings.