The Political System of the United States
The United States government, as established by the Constitution of 1787, is divided into three distinct branches, each with its own responsibilities and powers. This structure forms the foundation of the American democratic system and ensures a balance of power within the government.
Legislative Branch (Congress)
The legislative branch, also known as Congress, is responsible for making laws. It is divided into two chambers:
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House of Representatives:
- 435 seats
- Representatives serve two-year terms
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Senate:
- 100 senators (two from each state)
- Senators serve six-year terms
- One-third of senators are elected every two years
Highlight: The bicameral structure of Congress ensures representation based on both population (House) and equal state representation (Senate).
Judicial Branch (Supreme Court)
The judicial branch, headed by the Supreme Court, is the highest court in the federal judiciary. It consists of nine Justices who are appointed for life.
Definition: The Supreme Court's primary role is to interpret the Constitution and federal laws, ensuring their consistency with the founding document.
Executive Branch (Administration)
The executive branch is led by the President, who is independent of the legislature. The President also serves as the commander-in-chief of the armed forces.
Vocabulary: The Cabinet, which includes the Vice President and heads of executive departments (e.g., Secretaries of Defense, Treasury, Interior, and State), assists the President in governing.
System of Checks and Balances
The U.S. government system incorporates a system of checks and balances to prevent any branch from abusing its power. Each branch can check the decisions of the others:
- Congress can pass or ratify laws and treaties, overrule a President's veto with a two-thirds majority, regulate commerce, taxes, spending, and military expenses, and declare war.
- The Supreme Court can declare executive actions and laws unconstitutional.
- The President can propose, approve, or veto laws, make treaties with foreign countries, and nominate Supreme Court judges.
Example: If Congress passes a law that the President believes is unconstitutional, they can veto it. Congress can then override the veto with a two-thirds majority in both chambers.
Voting and Elections
The U.S. election system is characterized by two major parties: Democrats (more liberal) and Republicans (more conservative). The process for selecting presidential candidates involves a lengthy primary process.
Citizens elect members of Congress directly:
- Representatives (number based on state population)
- Senators (exactly two per state)
For presidential elections, citizens vote indirectly by electing members of the Electoral College, who then vote for the President and Vice President.
Highlight: The Electoral College USA system means that the candidate who wins the popular vote may not necessarily win the presidency, as seen in some recent U.S. presidential elections.
This unique system of government, with its checks and balances and complex electoral process, continues to shape American politics and policy-making to this day.
