By Robert Irving Miller
At the heart of the United States government lies a document that has guided the nation for more than two centuries: the U.S. Constitution. Adopted in 1787, the Constitution does more than simply lay out the rules of governance—it creates a system of shared powers and mutual oversight that shapes the daily work of Congress, the President, and the federal courts.
The Supreme Law of the Land
The Constitution is often described as the “supreme law of the land.” It not only forms the structure of the federal government but also limits its powers. All members of the government—from senators to the President to Supreme Court justices—are sworn to uphold it. Its provisions define what each branch can and cannot do, ensuring no single arm of government is supposed to operate without limits.
Congress: The Lawmakers
Created by Article I of the Constitution, Congress—the House of Representatives and the Senate—holds the power to make laws. Beyond passing legislation, Congress controls government spending, declares war, approves treaties, and confirms appointments of federal officials and judges. Congress also wields the power to impeach and remove officials, including the President and federal judges, ensuring accountability at the highest levels.
The President: Enforcer of the Law
Article II establishes the Executive Branch, led by a President. The President’s primary responsibility is to enforce the laws passed by Congress. The Constitution does not authorize a President to make law. As Commander in Chief of the military, a President oversees national defense, negotiates treaties (with Senate approval), and appoints judges and other officials (again with Senate approval). A President also has the power to veto legislation, though Congress can override such vetoes.
The Federal Judiciary: Guardian of the Constitution
The third branch, the federal judiciary, is established by Article III. The courts interpret the law and the Constitution, resolving disputes under federal law and between states. Through the landmark case Marbury v. Madison in 1803, the Supreme Court asserted its power of judicial review—the ability to strike down laws or executive actions that violate the Constitution. This critical function ensures both Congress and the President stay within constitutional boundaries.
A System of Checks and Balances
The Constitution’s most enduring feature may be its system of checks and balances. Each branch can limit the powers of the others, preventing any single branch from becoming too powerful. Congress controls the purse strings and can remove officials; the President can veto bills and issue pardons; and the courts can invalidate unconstitutional actions by either of the other branches.
In this carefully crafted design, the Founders sought to protect liberty by ensuring that government power is always checked—and that the Constitution remains the final word.
