What is the primary role of the U.S. Supreme Court?

The primary role of the U.S. Supreme Court is to interpret the Constitution and adjudicate legal disputes. This function is essential to maintaining the rule of law and ensuring that laws and actions taken by governmental bodies are in alignment with constitutional principles. The Court’s decisions can significantly influence the interpretation of rights and liberties enshrined in the Constitution, shaping legal precedents for future cases.

By reviewing cases that may involve constitutional issues, the Supreme Court addresses conflicts between federal and state laws, provides a check on legislative and executive actions, and protects individual rights and liberties. This interpretive role also means that the Court can nullify laws or executive actions that are deemed unconstitutional, reinforcing the balance of power among the branches of government.

The other choices do not accurately reflect the Supreme Court's foundational responsibilities. For instance, creating laws is the duty of Congress, and the Court does not propose amendments to the Constitution; that process is the responsibility of Congress or the states. Additionally, while the Supreme Court interacts with the executive branch, its primary function is not to oversee it but rather to judge the constitutionality of its actions.