Which branch of government is exclusively responsible for creating new states?

The legislative branch is exclusively responsible for creating new states, as established by the U.S. Constitution. Article IV, Section 3 specifically grants Congress the authority to admit new states into the Union. This section outlines the process by which territories can become states, emphasizing the role of Congress in both designating boundaries and determining the process for statehood.

In this context, the judicial and executive branches do not have the power to create new states. The judicial branch interprets laws and resolves legal disputes, while the executive branch enforces laws and executes policies, but they do not have any legislative authority to admit new states. The correct identification of the legislative branch highlights its unique function in this aspect of governance.