Governing Bodies, Essay Example

United States is governed by three independent bodies which are the; legislative branch, the executive branch and the judicial branch.  The function differently with the powers bestowed upon them by the constitution to achieve a common goal.

Just as the name suggests, the legislative branch ensures that legislation must pass the U.S House of Representatives and the U.S Senate before presentation to the president to be made law. The Senate, also known as the upper chamber, has one hundred senators who are appointed by the State’s governor. The Senate has powers that are distinct incase of power-sharing with the House of Representatives. On the other hand the house of people, commonly referred to as the house of Representatives has four hundred and thirty five representatives who are elected from areas within a Congressional District. The House of Representative also has special powers which distinguish it from the Senate. The two congress chambers constitute the legislative branch which is also responsible in overseeing the activities and duties performed by the Executive branch.

The executive branch is considered to be the largest in the federal government which is headed by the president. This makes it very powerful compared to the other bodies of the government. The president has different powers among which are; appointing different heads some of whom must have confirmation by the Senate, vetoing legislation after it has been passed by Congress, negotiating treaties and issuing Executive orders. The president can however be overruled by the Supreme Court if he abuses his powers to issue Executive orders. The Executive branch is also constituted by vice president, 15 departments and agencies which together make a government.

Together they administer and enforce the law as they deliver various services. The rules made in this branch have the force of law and affect every individual, business and entity.

The judicial branch is made up of the Supreme and lower federal courts. Its duty is to pass judgment on challenging cases that are legal and those that might require elaboration of acts of Congress and trying criminal cases where a person i accused of violating federal law. This branch is also independent in that its decisions are not influenced by the other two branches. Its only subjected to the law defined in the constitution. The constitution promotes its independence by appointing judges for life and that protecting their remuneration against diminishing during their term. The three branches are therefore effective in executing their tasks due to the independence bestowed upon them. (The Federal Government 2008)

References

The Federal Government. (8 June 2008) Retrieved on Nov 2, 2010 from http://www.america.gov/st/usg-english/2008/June/20080628203356eaifas0.2901422.html