The Executive Branch

                                                                                            The White House

The executive branch, which is led by the president, was established by Article II of the Constitution. The president serves for 4 years and is limited to 2 terms. In contrast to members of Congress, who are elected directly by the voters, the president is elected via the Electoral College, which is described later in this guide.

The president is the nation's chief executive. In this capacity the president signs bills into law, after which the executive branch administers and enforces them. Alternatively, the president can veto bills. The president also functions as the Commander in Chief of the armed forces. Finally, Article II empowers the president to appoint ambassadors, nominate federal judges, and sign treaties, with "the Advice and Consent of the Senate."

The president is supported by the Cabinet, which is comprised of 15 department heads plus the vice president. Well-known departments include the Department of Defense, the Department of State, and the Department of Justice. The most recently created department is the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), which was established in 2003 following the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001. 

To learn more about the nature and history of the executive branch, click on the links below.