What is the role of the Supreme Court in the U.S. government?

• A. To write laws for new policy areas
• B. Interprets laws and resolves constitutional questions; exercises judicial review
• C. To oversee elections
• D. To regulate commerce

Answer: (B)

The main idea being tested is how the Supreme Court functions as the interpreter of laws and the guardian of the Constitution, using judicial review to resolve constitutional questions. When a law or government action is challenged, the Court analyzes the text of statutes, the Constitution, and relevant precedents to decide whether they comply with constitutional rights and powers. This power of judicial review lets the Court check both Congress and the President, resolving disputes that involve constitutional interpretation and protecting fundamental rights. Because of that role, the Court doesn’t write laws—that’s Congress’s job—nor oversee elections, which are conducted by states and various election officials, nor regulate commerce, which is a power granted to Congress. The Court’s authority is to interpret and apply the law in light of the Constitution, ensuring government actions stay within constitutional bounds.