Three Branches: Separate but Equal
The powers of our federal (national) government are
divided
into three branches: legislative, executive, and judicial.
The branches are separate but equal. They each have
special responsibilities concerning laws, the principles
that govern our nation.
Legislative Branch
Congress: Senate (100 members) and the House of
Representatives (435 members)
** Makes Laws **
Creates and passes bills (proposed laws)
Approves appointments and treaties (agreements) made
by the
President
Sets and collects taxes
Coins money
Makes rules for trade between states
Declares war
Executive Branch
The President, Vice President, 14 Cabinet members (heads
of
14 executive departments)
** Carries Out (Executes) Laws **
Signs into law or vetoes (rejects) bills passed by Congress
Commands the armed forces
Appoints judges, ambassadors, and other federal officials
Makes treaties with other countries
Receives diplomats from other countries
Represents the U.S. at special ceremonies
Judicial Branch (Supreme Court )
The Supreme Court (9 justices) and the Lower federal
courts
** Interprets Laws **
Can decide if a law is constitutional
Can decide if a Presidential action is constitutional
Reviews court cases related to the Constitution and
federal laws
Reviews cases tried in lower courts
Adapted from Scholastic Skills Books: Our Nation's
Government ("Legislative Branch" and "Judicial
Branch"
editions).