Which of the following is a branch or part of the government?

Congress is indeed a branch of government, specifically the legislative branch at the federal level in the United States. It is responsible for making laws, and it consists of two chambers: the House of Representatives and the Senate. This structure of Congress is a cornerstone of the American political system, as it allows for a system of checks and balances among the government branches, ensuring that no single entity becomes too powerful.

In contrast, a state legislature serves a similar purpose at the state level, making it an important part of state government rather than a branch of the federal government. Political parties and civil service are integral to the functioning of the government but do not represent formal branches or parts of government; rather, they play roles in the political process and the administration of government functions, respectively. Thus, the emphasis on Congress as a branch highlights its pivotal role in creating federal laws and maintaining democratic governance.