Which branches make up the division of federal and state governments?

The correct answer highlights the primary branches of government recognized in both federal and state systems, which are the executive and legislative branches.

The legislative branch is responsible for creating laws. At the federal level, this includes Congress, which is divided into the House of Representatives and the Senate. Similarly, state legislatures have their own structures for crafting and passing legislation that pertains to state governance.

The executive branch, headed by the President at the federal level and by the Governor at the state level, is responsible for enforcing the laws established by the legislative branch. Executives have the power to implement policies, oversee the administration of government operations, and ensure that laws are executed correctly and fairly.

Understanding the functions of these two branches is essential for comprehending the framework of government in the United States. The other choices either include branches that do not officially exist within this framework, such as administrative, or skip over one of the essential branches recognized nationally. This distinction clarifies the foundational principles of governance, illustrating how laws are made, implemented, and interpreted within the context of both federal and state systems.