What is the primary role of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) in the U.S. government?

The primary role of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) in the U.S. government is to investigate and enforce federal laws. The FBI is a key agency within the Department of Justice and operates as the principal federal investigative agency. It focuses on a wide array of criminal activities including terrorism, cybercrime, organized crime, public corruption, civil rights violations, and various other federal offenses.

By executing investigations, the FBI gathers evidence, conducts surveillance, and works closely with other law enforcement agencies to build cases against those who violate federal laws. This dual function of both investigation and enforcement is critical for maintaining national security and upholding the rule of law in the United States.

In contrast, conducting military operations abroad falls under the purview of the Department of Defense, while managing state police forces is the responsibility of individual state governments. The oversight of election processes is typically handled by state and local election officials, as well as the Federal Election Commission, rather than the FBI.