What is the primary responsibility of the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff?

The primary responsibility of the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff is to advise the President and coordinate with the military branches. This role is crucial as the Chairman serves as the principal military advisor to the President and the Secretary of Defense, ensuring that military strategy aligns with national objectives and policies. Additionally, the Chairman facilitates communication and collaboration among the various branches of the military, which helps to ensure coherence in the implementation of defense and military strategy.

The role of advising the President encompasses providing insights on military readiness and capabilities, which directly affects decisions on national security. This position does not include executing military operations directly, as operational control lies with the combatant commanders. Moreover, the role does not focus primarily on legislative matters or budget oversight, as those responsibilities fall under different entities within the government structure.