The executive branch is the part of government responsible for enforcing and executing the laws. In the United States, the executive power is vested in the President, who acts as the head of state and Commander-in-Chief of the armed forces
. The executive branch includes:
- The President, who leads the country, enforces laws, and appoints heads of federal agencies and judges.
- The Vice President, who supports the President and assumes the presidency if needed.
- The Cabinet, composed of heads of 15 executive departments, who help administer federal laws daily.
- Various independent federal agencies and commissions, such as the CIA, Environmental Protection Agency, Federal Reserve Board, and Securities and Exchange Commission
The executive branch ensures that laws passed by the legislative branch (Congress) are implemented and obeyed. It also has some law-making powers through executive orders, which are subject to judicial review
. This branch operates under the system of checks and balances, where its actions can be checked by the legislative and judicial branches. For example, the President can veto laws passed by Congress, but Congress can override vetoes or remove the President under exceptional circumstances. The Supreme Court can overturn executive actions if they are unconstitutional
. In summary, the executive branch is the branch of government that carries out and enforces laws, led by the President and supported by the Vice President, Cabinet, and federal agencies.
