Branches of Government to Know for AP US Government

The U.S. government is divided into three branches: Legislative, Executive, and Judicial. Each branch has distinct roles and powers, ensuring a balance of authority and protecting individual rights through a system of checks and balances established by the Constitution.

1. Legislative Branch

   • Responsible for making laws and consists of two chambers: the House of Representatives and the Senate.
   • Has the power to levy taxes, regulate commerce, and declare war.
   • Members of Congress are elected by the people, ensuring representation.

2. Executive Branch

   • Enforces and administers federal laws; led by the President of the United States.
   • Includes the Vice President, Cabinet members, and various federal agencies.
   • Has the power to veto legislation and appoint federal judges.

3. Judicial Branch

   • Interprets laws and ensures they are applied fairly; consists of the Supreme Court and lower federal courts.
   • Has the authority to review laws and executive actions for constitutionality (judicial review).
   • Judges are appointed for life, promoting independence from political pressures.

4. Separation of Powers

   • Divides government responsibilities into three distinct branches to prevent any one branch from gaining too much power.
   • Each branch has its own functions and powers, creating a system of governance that promotes accountability.
   • Established by the Constitution to protect individual liberties.

5. Checks and Balances

   • Each branch of government has the ability to limit the powers of the other branches.
   • Examples include the President's veto power, Congress's ability to override vetoes, and the Supreme Court's power to declare laws unconstitutional.
   • Ensures that power is balanced and that no single branch can dominate the government.

6. Federalism

   • A system of government where power is divided between a central authority and smaller political units (states).
   • Allows for local governance and the ability to address regional issues while maintaining national unity.
   • The Constitution outlines the powers of the federal government and reserves other powers for the states.

7. Congress

   • The legislative body of the federal government, consisting of the House of Representatives and the Senate.
   • Responsible for creating laws, controlling federal spending, and representing the interests of constituents.
   • Each chamber has unique powers, such as the House's ability to initiate revenue bills and the Senate's role in confirming appointments.

8. Presidency

   • The highest executive office in the U.S., responsible for enforcing laws and conducting foreign policy.
   • The President serves as Commander-in-Chief of the armed forces and has the power to issue executive orders.
   • Elected for a four-year term, with the possibility of re-election for one additional term.

9. Supreme Court

   • The highest court in the United States, with the ultimate authority on constitutional interpretation.
   • Composed of nine justices who serve lifetime appointments, ensuring judicial independence.
   • Has the power to hear cases involving federal law, disputes between states, and appeals from lower courts.

10. Federal Bureaucracy

    • Comprises the agencies and departments that implement federal laws and policies.
    • Plays a crucial role in the day-to-day administration of government functions.
    • Bureaucrats are often career civil servants, providing continuity and expertise in governance.

11. State Governments

    • Each state has its own constitution, legislative body, executive branch, and judicial system.
    • Responsible for regulating areas such as education, transportation, and public safety.
    • Powers not specifically granted to the federal government are reserved for the states.

12. Local Governments

    • Include counties, cities, towns, and other municipalities that govern at a local level.
    • Responsible for local services such as police, fire protection, and zoning regulations.
    • Local governments derive their authority from state constitutions and laws.

13. Constitutional Powers

    • Powers explicitly granted to the federal government by the Constitution.
    • Include the ability to tax, regulate interstate commerce, and maintain armed forces.
    • Serve as the foundation for federal authority and governance.

14. Enumerated Powers

    • Specific powers listed in Article I, Section 8 of the Constitution that belong to Congress.
    • Include the power to coin money, establish post offices, and regulate immigration.
    • Provide a clear framework for federal legislative authority.

15. Reserved Powers

    • Powers not delegated to the federal government nor prohibited to the states, as outlined in the Tenth Amendment.
    • Include powers related to education, local law enforcement, and public health.
    • Emphasize the principle of federalism by allowing states to govern themselves in certain areas.