What part of the federal government writes laws? — Answer & Explanation

Official Question & Answer

Question

What part of the federal government writes laws?

✦ OFFICIAL ANSWER ✦

(U.S.) Congress; (U.S. or national) legislature; legislative branch

Why This Is the Answer

Congress (also called the legislature or legislative branch) is the part of the federal government that writes laws. Congress is made up of two chambers: the Senate and the House of Representatives.

A bill (proposed law) must pass both the Senate and the House before it goes to the President for a signature. If the President signs it, it becomes law. If the President vetoes it, Congress can override the veto with a two-thirds vote in both chambers.

The Founders gave law-making power to Congress — the branch closest to the people — because they believed that the people's elected representatives should decide the rules everyone follows.

💡 Interview Tip

Say: 'Congress' or 'the legislative branch.' Both are correct.

Study These Questions Next

Why is the Declaration of Independence important?

American Government

What founding document said the American colonies were free from Britain?

American Government

Name two important ideas from the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution.

American Government

The words “Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness” are in what founding document?

American Government

Ready to Master All the Civics Questions?

Test yourself with our free quiz simulator and interactive flashcards — the same official questions, timed like the real interview.

✅ Start Free Quiz 🃏 Study Flashcards