What does the executive branch do? Please answer in bullets.

The executive branch has many roles and includes many people. It is one of the three branches of the federal government. All of the examples that I will give refer to the federal government.

• The President and the Vice President head this branch.


• The President is the Commander-in-Chief of the armed forces. While the President relies on many people for military advice, he makes the final decisions on military matters and military actions.


• The executive branch is responsible for carrying out the laws. The President is responsible for making sure that what a law says should happen actually does happen.


• There are many government agencies that are part of the executive branch. These agencies help the President carry out the laws.


• The President can sign or veto laws.


• The Vice President must be ready to assume the duties of the presidency if the President is killed or is unable to carry out the responsibilities of the job.


• The President appoints people to his Cabinet. The Cabinet advises the President on various matters.


• The President may issue executive orders.


• The Vice President may break a tie vote in the Senate. His vote would be the vote that breaks the tie. The Vice President serves as the President of the Senate.


• The President is responsible for handling our relationships with other countries. The President may also negotiate treaties with other countries.

The executive branch has many functions within our government structure.