Which branch of government is primarily responsible for interpreting the Constitution?

The judicial branch is primarily responsible for interpreting the Constitution. This role is crucial because the Constitution serves as the supreme law of the land, outlining the structure of the government, the powers of various branches, and the rights of individuals. The judicial branch, headed by the Supreme Court, has the authority to review laws and executive actions to determine whether they are constitutional.

Through this process of judicial review, the courts not only resolve disputes but also ensure that the Constitution remains a living document that adapts to the changing needs and values of society. This power allows the judiciary to interpret the meaning of constitutional provisions and to apply those interpretations to specific legal cases. Ultimately, it is the judiciary that safeguards individual rights and preserves the balance of power specified in the Constitution.

In contrast, the executive branch is responsible for enforcing laws, while the legislative branch is tasked with making laws. Both branches play significant roles in government, but neither has the authority to interpret the Constitution in the same way that the judicial branch does. Additionally, state governments operate under their own constitutions and laws, which may be interpreted within the context of state law but do not carry the same weight as federal constitutional interpretation.