Question

In this unit, you learned about the structure and functions of the three branches of the federal government. Identify these branches, and describe some of their powers, as granted by the U.S. Constitution. What are some ways that each branch can perform checks on the powers of other branches? Why do you think this important? What do you think might happen if one branch of government was granted too much power over others? Explain your response

Answer 1

The correct answer to this open question is the following.

These branches of the federal government are the executive branch, the legislative branch, and the judicial branch.

The executive branch is the President of the United States. The President is the most important leader of the United States. He is the commander-in-chief of the armed forces and the chief diplomat. He has the power to sign executive orders and veto legislation created by legislators.

The legislative branch is the US Congress. It is divided into two chambers; The lower chamber or House of Representatives and the upper chamber or Senate. The US Congress has the power to create laws and regulate domestic trade and foreign trade.

The judicial branch is the Supreme Court, the most important court in the United States. The judicial branch oversees the justice system in America and has the power to declare a law, unconstitutional.

These three branches are subjected to the checks and balances system created by the founding fathers. This means that none of the three branches has more power than the other. This is good for the US because this maintains the proper balance between the branches.