What is the highest legal authority in the United States?

The highest legal authority in the United States is the Constitution. This foundational document establishes the framework for the government, delineates the powers of its branches, and protects individual rights through its amendments. In the hierarchy of laws, the Constitution comes first; any law or government action that conflicts with it is deemed unconstitutional and thus invalid.

The Constitution serves not only as a guiding document for the legislative and executive branches but also informs the decisions made by the judiciary, particularly the Supreme Court. The Court interprets the Constitution and resolves disputes regarding its application, which further reinforces the Constitution's primacy over other laws, including statutes made by Congress or regulations promulgated by the executive branch.

In contrast, the President, the Supreme Court, and the Senate are essential components of the governmental structure but operate within the constraints and authority defined by the Constitution. The President enforces federal laws, the Supreme Court interprets them, and the Senate participates in the legislative process, but none of these entities possess authority that surpasses or contradicts the Constitution itself.