The United States government is structured with a system of checks and balances among three branches: executive, legislative, and judicial. Here's an overview of the key offices and current balance of power:
Executive Branch
The President of the United States leads the executive branch. Key points include:
- The current President is Joe Biden, elected in 2020.
- The President enforces laws, can veto legislation, and nominates federal judges and Supreme Court justices.
- The President is elected via the Electoral College system, not by direct popular vote.
Legislative Branch
Congress forms the legislative branch, consisting of the House of Representatives and Senate.
House of Representatives
- 435 voting members, elected every two years.
- Current balance: Republicans hold a slim majority with 221 seats vs 213 for Democrats.
- One vacant seat (NY-03) due to the expulsion of George Santos.
Senate
- 100 total seats (2 per state), with senators serving 6-year terms.
- Current balance: 51 Democrats (including 3 Independents who caucus with Democrats), 49 Republicans.
Checks and Balances
The system of checks and balances prevents any single branch from becoming too powerful:
- Congress can override presidential vetoes and impeach federal officials.
- The President can veto legislation and issue executive orders.
- The Supreme Court can declare laws unconstitutional.
- The Senate confirms presidential appointments and ratifies treaties.
This structure ensures a separation of powers and allows each branch to provide oversight on the others, maintaining the balance of the federal government.
