System of government in USA

1. General principles
The USA is the one of the oldest democratic republic in the world. The
Fundamentals law of the land, the Constitution, divides the powers of
government between the federal government and the 50 states.
The federal government has three separate branches: legislative (Congress),
executive (the President) and judicial (Supreme Court).
2. Legislative branch
The Congress of the USA consists of two houses: the Senate and the House
of Representatives. To become a law, a bill must be passed by both houses.
The Senate has 100 members. Two senators are elected from each state and
hold office for a term of 6 years, but one third of the seats are vacated
every two years.
The House of Representatives has 435 members elected for a term of two
years.
3. Executive branch
The head of the executive branch of the Federal government is the
President, who is elected for a four-year term. He may be elected for two
consecutive terms, but no more. The President nominates the heads of
regular executive departments, who form a body called the Cabinet. The
President appoints these heads with the approval of the Senate.
4. Judicial branch
Two separate judicial systems exist because of the division of powers
between the federal government and the states. State courts handle cases
arising under the constitution of the states and the laws of their
legislatures. Federal courts consider cases arising under the constitution of
US.
The Supreme court is the highest court in the nation. Its decisions are final.
5. The local governments
The state governments are based on a pattern similar to the federal
government. There are legislative, executive (the Governor) and judicial
branches. The function of the state governments are mainly concerned with
the needs of the state and its residents.