AP Government Exam Review - Institutions of Government - Executive

A collection of flashcards covering key concepts related to the executive branch and its interactions with bureaucracy, Congress, and policy initiatives.

What are some formal powers of the president?

Veto power, command armed forces, pardoning power, appointment powers, make treaties, convene Congress.

What are some informal powers of the president?

Power to go public, power of persuasion, make executive agreements, issue executive orders, issue signing statements, create & use bureaucracy, make legislative proposals.

How can the president's agenda create tension with Congress?

The president's policy initiatives and executive orders may bypass the legislative process, seen as undermining Congress's role, leading to conflict, especially with controversial nominations.

What is the influence of the 22nd Amendment on presidential power?

It limits the president to two terms or ten years, preventing consolidation of power and forcing presidents to focus on getting things done quickly.

What does Hamilton argue in Federalist No. 70?

He argues for a strong, single leader as president to act quickly, take responsibility, and ensure accountability, which is necessary for good governance and national security.

How does the president use the bully pulpit to set the policy agenda?

The president speaks directly to the public to build support for ideas and policies through speeches, social media, and news appearances, which pressure Congress to act.

How does the bureaucracy carry out the responsibilities of the federal government?

It consists of government workers and agencies that implement laws, create rules, provide services, and ensure compliance with laws.

What was the impact of the Pendleton Act on bureaucracy?

It established that government jobs should be awarded based on merit rather than political connections, making the bureaucracy more fair and professional.

What is the Hatch Act?

The Hatch Act restricts government workers from political involvement during their official duties to keep government impartial and focused on serving all citizens.

What is the role of cabinet departments?

They assist the president in managing the country by focusing on key areas like education, defense, and health.

What distinguishes independent agencies from cabinet departments?

Independent agencies operate without direct presidential control to focus on specific tasks and mitigate political pressure.

What are independent regulatory commissions?

Agencies that create and enforce rules to protect the public interest, with operational independence from the executive branch.

What are government corporations?

Businesses owned by the government that provide essential services, often for a fee, like the U.S. Postal Service.

What is an iron triangle?

A stable relationship among bureaucratic agencies, interest groups, and congressional committees influential in domestic policymaking.

What is an issue network?

A broad and loose association of various actors who work together on specific policy issues, differing from the stability of iron triangles.

How does Congress hold the bureaucracy accountable?

By exerting authority through funding, oversight, and legislation.

How does the president hold the bureaucracy accountable?

By making appointments, issuing executive orders, and overseeing agency operations.

How do the judicial courts hold the bureaucracy accountable?

By interpreting laws and ruling on the legality of bureaucratic regulations and actions.