Which of the following is NOT a power of Congress?

The authority to grant pardons is not a power held by Congress; instead, it is a power specifically allocated to the President of the United States. The U.S. Constitution grants the president the authority to grant reprieves and pardons for offenses against the United States, except in cases of impeachment. This establishes a clear distinction between the legislative powers of Congress and the executive powers of the President.

In contrast, the other options reflect powers that are explicitly enumerated to Congress within the Constitution. For instance, Congress has the power to regulate interstate commerce, declare war, and levy taxes, all of which are critical functions that enable Congress to manage the nation’s economy and military affairs effectively. Understanding the separation of powers is fundamental to grasping the framework of the U.S. government, which delineates responsibilities among the legislative, executive, and judicial branches.