SHU Law and Civics

The American Political System

I. Foundations of Government

The U.S. government is founded on the Constitution, which defines the powers of each branch and protects individual rights. It creates a federal system — dividing authority between the national and state governments — so that power is balanced and shared rather than centralized.
(Source: WhiteHouse.gov; ConstitutionCenter.org)

II. Federalism: Shared Power Between Nation and States

Under federalism, both the federal government and the states have their own areas of authority. The federal government handles national and international matters such as defense, immigration, and currency. States manage issues closer to daily life — education, policing, elections, and local infrastructure.

This balance is flexible: while the Constitution grants certain powers exclusively to each level, many areas are shared. For example, both federal and state governments can tax citizens, build roads, and enforce laws.

Cooperation occurs constantly — federal and state agencies coordinate on issues like disaster relief, public health, and environmental protection. Though tensions sometimes arise, this partnership ensures that government remains close to the people while maintaining unity across the nation.
(Source: ConstitutionCenter.org; WhiteHouse.gov)

III. The Three Branches

Legislative Branch (Congress) – Makes the laws. Congress includes the House of Representatives and the Senate. Members draft, debate, and vote on legislation that shapes national policy.

Executive Branch (President & Agencies) – Enforces the laws. The President leads the executive branch, manages national defense, foreign policy, and oversees federal departments.

Judicial Branch (Courts) – Interprets the laws. The federal courts, led by the Supreme Court, resolve disputes and ensure that laws and executive actions comply with the Constitution.
(Source: WhiteHouse.gov; Law.Cornell.edu)

IV. Separation of Powers

The Constitution divides government responsibilities among the three branches to prevent any one branch from dominating. Congress writes laws, the President enforces them, and the courts interpret them. This structure guards against tyranny and ensures that power remains distributed.
(Source: Law.Cornell.edu; ConstitutionCenter.org)

V. Checks and Balances

Each branch can “check” the others to prevent abuse of authority:

  • Congress can override presidential vetoes or impeach officials.
  • The President can veto legislation or appoint judges.
  • The Courts can strike down laws or executive actions that violate the Constitution.

These checks maintain equilibrium and protect citizens’ rights by making each branch accountable to the others.
(Source: WhiteHouse.gov; Law.Cornell.edu)

VI. How a Law is Made

  1. A bill is introduced in Congress.
  2. Committees review, amend, and debate it.
  3. Both the House and Senate must pass it.
  4. The President signs or vetoes the bill.
  5. If signed, it becomes law and is implemented by executive agencies.
  6. Courts may later interpret or review it for constitutionality.
    (Source: WhiteHouse.gov; Law.Cornell.edu)

VII. The Role of Citizens

The American system is grounded in popular sovereignty — the idea that all government power comes from the people. Citizens aren’t just subjects of law; they are its source. Civic responsibilities include:

  • Voting: Choosing representatives at all levels of government.
  • Engagement: Contacting officials, serving on juries, or joining public forums.
  • Accountability: Staying informed and holding leaders responsible through elections and advocacy.
  • Service: Volunteering or contributing to civic improvement and community well-being.
  • Active participation keeps democracy healthy and ensures the system truly reflects the will of the people.
  • (Source: ConstitutionCenter.org; WhiteHouse.gov)

VIII. Why This Structure Matters

The American political system blends unity and diversity — balancing national strength with local independence. Separation of powers, checks and balances, and federalism all work together to limit authority, protect liberty, and make government responsive to its citizens.

This design has allowed the United States to adapt for over two centuries, proving that democracy endures when citizens stay informed, engaged, and committed to the rule of law.
(Source: ConstitutionCenter.org; WhiteHouse.gov)