Federal Government Overview

There are three branches of government in our democracy: Judicial, Executive and Legislative. Both state and federal government bodies usually follow the same structure, called a bicameral legislature. There is one exception, Nebraska, which is unicameral. Nebraska only has one house-the Senate.

Judicial Branch: The judicial branch hears cases that challenge or require interpretation of the legislation passed by Congress and signed by the President. It consists of the Supreme Court and the lower federal courts. Appointees to the federal bench serve for life or until they voluntarily resign or retire.

• Provides one of the “checks and balances” in our government system
• Judges provide judicial review of the law

Executive Branch: The power of the executive branch is vested in the President, who also serves as Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces. The President appoints the Cabinet and oversees the various agencies and departments of the federal government.

• Signs bills into law and has veto power
• Executes law through administrative agencies.

Legislative Branch: The legislative branch of the federal government consists of the Congress, which is divided into two chambers - the Senate and the House of Representatives. Each member of Congress is elected by the people of his or her state. The House of Representatives, with membership based on state populations, has 435 seats, while the Senate, with two members from each state, has 100 seats. Members of the House of Representatives are elected for two-year terms, and Senators are elected for six-year terms.