Who is responsible for leading the executive branch of the U.S. government?

The President is responsible for leading the executive branch of the U.S. government, serving as the head of state and government. This role encompasses enforcing federal laws, managing the executive departments, and guiding national policy and direction. The President also has the authority to appoint federal officials, including Cabinet members, and to represent the United States in foreign affairs, making them central to the functioning and administration of the government.

The responsibilities and powers of the President are detailed in Article II of the U.S. Constitution, which outlines the scope of executive authority and establishes the President as the primary leader in this branch of government. In the context of U.S. government, the executive branch is distinct from the legislative and judicial branches, which are led by the Speaker of the House and the Chief Justice, respectively, each of whom has specific roles that do not include leading the executive branch. Meanwhile, the Vice President serves primarily as an assistant to the President and becomes the acting President under certain conditions, but does not take on the overall leadership of the executive branch.