Abstract
This is the core chapter on the separation of powers within the constitutional governance structure of the United States and how public administration fits within that structure. The triad of political powers is identified together with the triad of jurisdictions in terms of the local, state and national government. The subordinate role of public administration within the executive power of government is explained in contrast to the assertions in the Blacksburg Manifesto (Wamsley, 1990a). The public administration's role in defining the public interest is explained, where the public interest is defined in terms of the “good” to which American society is consciously aspiring.