How many people, including military personnel, work within the executive branch?

The correct answer indicates that approximately 4 million people, including military personnel, work within the executive branch of the U.S. government. This figure encompasses a wide range of positions across various federal agencies, departments, and military organizations. The executive branch is responsible for implementing and enforcing laws, and its workforce includes civilian employees as well as active duty military members, making it a significant component of the overall federal employment landscape.

The inclusion of military personnel is crucial since they operate under the Department of Defense and are an integral part of the executive branch's functions. This workforce plays vital roles in national defense, public safety, and the administration of government programs, which contribute to the larger number represented in the total.

The other options significantly underestimate or overestimate the size of the workforce in the executive branch. Recognizing the scale of this operation helps in understanding how the government functions and the level of coordination required to manage such a large and diverse group of individuals.