What is the role of Congress in the U.S. government?

The role of Congress in the U.S. government is primarily to create laws. Congress is the legislative branch of the federal government, which means its main function is to draft, propose, debate, and pass legislation that will govern the country. This involves both the House of Representatives and the Senate working together to address various issues, represent the interests of their constituents, and perform oversight of the executive branch.

In crafting laws, Congress has several responsibilities, including conducting hearings, gathering evidence, and making revisions during the legislative process. Once a bill is passed by both chambers, it is sent to the President for approval or veto. This process is fundamental to the functioning of democracy, as it allows elected representatives to create the legal framework within which the nation operates.

The other options reflect functions that are not specifically assigned to Congress. Enforcement of laws is the responsibility of the executive branch, while interpreting laws falls under the purview of the judicial branch. Vetoing bills is a power reserved for the President, not Congress directly. Thus, the distinctive role of Congress is firmly rooted in its power to create laws, which serves as a cornerstone of the U.S. legislative system.