A System of Checks and Balances

The United States government is divided into three branches to ensure that no single person or group has too much power. This system is called "checks and balances."

• Legislative Branch: Made up of Congress (the Senate and House of Representatives). Their main job is to make laws.
• Executive Branch: Headed by the President. This branch carries out and enforces the laws.
• Judicial Branch: Consists of the Supreme Court and other federal courts. They interpret the laws and ensure they are applied fairly.