The American government is a democratic republic and the decision-making process fits into the democratic model and the pluralist model. The founders of the Constitution laid out a structural framework for government. The first three articles of the Constitution define the distinct branches of government and specify their functioning and internal powers. Separation of powers is the assignment of legislative, law enforcement, and law interpretation functions to separate branches of government. The three branches in the United States are: executive, judicial, and legislative. The principle of separation of powers draws lines that divide the powers held by distinct branches at a single level of government. Each branch has its own powers, although some powers are shared between them. The separation of powers system is intended to reduce the risk that a single branch could act independently and abuse its power. It also means that one branch cannot exercise the powers of the other branches. To prevent government from falling into the hands of one person or group of people, the founders created the principle of checks and balances. A system of checks and balances is a government structure that gives each branch some control over the actions of the others and requires cooperation between the branches. The legislative branch of government (legislative process): The legislative branch is defined in the 1st article of the Constitution and its main purpose is to legislate. Has powers in the executive branch: confirm executive appointments (Senate), override executive vetoes, and reject foreign treaties. The legislature can also create or eliminate courts and has the power to impeach. The executive branch of government (law enforcement): ... middle of paper ... to seize power and leave the other branches powerless or paralyzed. Germany, I think, is a good example of how dictatorship in a vulnerable moment is both possible and dangerous. However, the American system, with its checks and balances, is much better protected. Overall, I think there are and have been imbalances. First, I think the President has too much power to send his military into battle without congressional approval. One reason is the media and the ability to quickly capture people's opinions. Secondly, I believe the judiciary exercises too much power over its sentences. This excess power comes from the lengthy legislative process to enact laws and the executive to enforce them. After all, I have faith that our systems will find the “right” path and that the government and the people will never stop improving.