The economic system of the United States is principally privately owned. This system is often referred to as the "free enterprise system". It should be noted that although the United States operates a system of private enterprise, government has to some extent always been involved in regulating and guiding the American Economy. Yet, despite this history of government intervention, individuals in the United States have always been able to choose for whom they will work and what they will buy. Most importantly, they vote for officials who will set economic policy. Traditionally, the system has been referred to as a "market economy". Now decisions are made by three groups and it is their dynamic interaction that makes the economy function. Consumers, producers, and government make economic decisions on a daily basis, the primary force being between producers and consumers; hence the market economy designation.