In U.S. governance, the term "executive branch" refers to the division of government responsible for implementing and enforcing laws. Led by the President, the executive branch includes various agencies, such as the Cabinet and the federal bureaucracy. This branch includes powers such as issuing executive orders, conducting foreign affairs, and managing the national defense. The executive's ability to create policies and influence legislation underscores its important role in governance, while its actions are subject to checks from the legislative and judicial branches to maintain a balance of power.