Lesson 10 American Government.ppt

American Culture Lesson 10 American Government State vs. Federal Government Rights of the Federal Government Make war Tax Borrow and coin money, and regulate its value Regulate commerce between the states Maintain a postal system State vs. Federal Government Rights of the State Governments Control education Regulate corporations and business within the state Determine most election procedures Regulate local governments Make and administer civil and criminal laws Organization of the US Federal Government Three Main Branches Executive Branch Executive Branch President: Leader of the country and Commander in Chief of the military. Vice President: President of the Senate and becomes President if the President is unable to serve. Presidential Responsibilities Head of the government and chief of state Negotiates foreign treaties and appoints government officials (including ambassadors, judges, and department heads) Commands the armed forces Sends and receives diplomatic officials Makes sure laws are carried out Introduces legislative bills to Congress Legislative Branch House of Representatives 435 total representatives, each state has a different number based on the population of that state 255 Democrats, 178 Republicans, and 2 vacancies 17.2% are women Senate 2 representatives from each state 56 Democrats, 41 Republicans, 2 Independents, and 1 vacancy 17% women All representatives in the House and the Senate make at least $165,200 a year. Those holding special positions earn more Functions of Congress Make laws (especially regarding…) Defense and foreign affairs Citizenship, naturalization, immigration Regulation of commerce with foreign countries and among the states Power to collect taxes to pay debts and provide for the common defense and general welfare of the US Judicial Branch The power of the Federal Court extend to all cases involving: The Constitution The laws of the United States Treaties with foreign countries Ambassadors of foreign count