The executive branch of our Government is in charge of making sure that the laws of the United States are obeyed. The President of the United States is the head of the executive branch. The President gets help from the Vice President, department heads (called Cabinet members), and heads of independent agencies. Here are some of the things those people do:

  • The President leads the country and commands the military.
  • The Vice President becomes President if the President can no longer do the job and is also President of the Senate.
  • Department heads advise the President on issues and help carry out decisions made by the Government.
  • Independent Agencies also help carry out decisions made by the Government or provide special services.