What is the main function of federal agencies like the DOJ and DHS?

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The primary function of federal agencies such as the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) focuses on handling federal crimes and addressing issues that cross state lines or involve multiple jurisdictions. The DOJ operates primarily to enforce federal laws, which include investigating and prosecuting crimes such as drug trafficking, immigration violations, and terrorism. This jurisdiction is crucial because many crimes can span across state lines or require federal resources and coordination to effectively manage.

The DHS, on the other hand, deals with a range of responsibilities, including immigration, border security, and counter-terrorism efforts. Much of their work overlaps with federal criminal activities, including the prevention and investigation of crimes that threaten national security.

In contrast, while enforcing civil laws and managing state law enforcement are important functions within the legal framework, these areas typically fall under state jurisdiction or local law enforcement agencies. Similarly, regulating foreign affairs is primarily the responsibility of the U.S. Department of State, not these specific federal agencies. The focus of the DOJ and DHS is thus squarely on federal crime and inter-jurisdictional issues, making option B the most accurate representation of their main functions.

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