The U.S. government operates as a federal system with three distinct branches: legislative, executive, and judicial. Each branch has specific powers and responsibilities, providing checks and balances on the others.

Legislative Branch

The legislative branch consists of Congress, which is divided into two chambers:

1. The House of Representatives (435 members)
2. The Senate (100 members, two from each state)

Congress is responsible for making laws, declaring war, regulating commerce, and controlling taxing and spending policies3. For example, a bill must pass both chambers of Congress before being sent to the President for approval or veto5.

Executive Branch

The executive branch is led by the President and includes:

• The Vice President
• The Cabinet (15 executive departments)
• Various federal agencies

The President enforces laws, nominates federal judges, serves as Commander-in-Chief of the military, and can veto legislation13. For instance, the President may issue executive orders to federal agencies or deploy troops in emergency situations.

Judicial Branch

The judicial branch comprises:

• The Supreme Court (9 justices)
• Lower federal courts

This branch interprets laws, determines their constitutionality, and resolves disputes between parties13. An example of the judicial branch's power is its ability to overturn unconstitutional laws passed by Congress9.

Checks and Balances

The system of checks and balances ensures that no single branch becomes too powerful. For example:

• Congress can override a presidential veto with a two-thirds majority in both chambers
• The President nominates Supreme Court justices, but the Senate must confirm them
• The Supreme Court can declare laws unconstitutional, effectively nullifying them9

This system helps maintain a balance of power and prevents any one branch from dominating the others.

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