Separation of Government Powers

A key structural feature of the US government, the separation of powers divides federal authority into three separate branches: the legislative branch, the executive branch, and the judicial branch. The legislative branch consists of elected representatives responsible for debating legislation, passing laws, and allocating the funds needed for government activities. Administered by the president, the executive branch enforces the laws and policies passed by the legislative branch. The judicial branch interprets federal laws and statutes when their technicalities or precise applications are unclear. Each branch has its own unique set of powers and limitations, which are designed to prevent any one branch from wielding too much authority or undermining the capabilities of any other. These powers and limitations are collectively...