Which department is primarily responsible for enforcing federal laws?

The Justice Department, also known as the Department of Justice (DOJ), is primarily responsible for enforcing federal laws. This department encompasses several key functions, including overseeing federal law enforcement agencies, prosecuting cases of federal law violations, and ensuring that justice is administered fairly.

The DOJ also handles a variety of critical legal matters, including civil rights enforcement, immigration, and criminal prosecution at the federal level. Its overarching role is to uphold the rule of law and ensure that federal laws are effectively enforced.

In contrast, the other departments mentioned have distinct roles: the Department of Homeland Security focuses on protecting against threats and managing immigration and disaster responses; the Federal Bureau of Investigation, while a significant law enforcement body within the DOJ, primarily investigates and addresses specific federal crimes; and the Department of Defense is primarily concerned with national security and military operations rather than law enforcement.