Which of the following correctly pairs a branch of the U.S. government and its power?

A. legislative: interprets laws
B. executive: makes laws
C. executive: enforces laws
D. judicial: enforces laws

C. executive: enforces laws

C. executive: enforces laws

The correct pair that correctly pairs a branch of the U.S. government and its power is C. executive: enforces laws.

To arrive at this answer, we need to understand the roles and powers of each branch of the U.S. government:

1. Legislative Branch: This branch is responsible for making laws. It consists of the Congress, which is further divided into the House of Representatives and the Senate. Their primary function is to propose, debate, and pass laws.

2. Executive Branch: This branch is headed by the President of the United States and is responsible for enforcing laws. The executive branch includes various departments and agencies, such as the Department of Justice and the Department of Homeland Security. The President also has the power to veto legislation passed by Congress.

3. Judicial Branch: This branch is comprised of the federal courts, including the Supreme Court. Its primary function is to interpret and apply laws, ensuring they are consistent with the Constitution. The judicial branch has the power to settle disputes and determine the constitutionality of laws.

From this information, we can determine that the correct pair is C. executive: enforces laws, as it aligns with the role and power of the Executive Branch.