To prevent any one person or group from having too much power, the U.S. Constitution divides the federal government into three distinct branches. This system is known as "separation of powers," and it relies on "checks and balances" to ensure no branch operates without oversight.
Primary Role: Makes the laws.
Congress is comprised of the House of Representatives and the Senate. In addition to making laws, they control taxes and spending, and have the power to declare war.
Primary Role: Carries out and enforces the laws.
Led by the President and Vice President, this branch includes the Cabinet and most federal agencies. The President also serves as Commander in Chief of the armed forces and conducts foreign policy.
Primary Role: Interprets the laws.
This branch is headed by the Supreme Court and includes all lower federal courts. They decide if laws are constitutional and resolve legal disputes between states or individuals.