Politics and Public policymaking

Incrementalism

A policy-making process that involves making small, gradual changes instead of large-scale reforms.

Agenda Setting

The process by which certain issues are prioritized and highlighted for attention by policymakers and the public.

Political Agenda

The list of issues or topics considered important and prioritized for governmental action.

Policy Formulation

The development and drafting of proposals to address specific public issues.

Policy Adoption

The stage where proposed policies are officially approved and accepted by decision-makers.

Policy Implementation

The process of putting adopted policies into effect through various actions and measures.

Policy Evaluation

Assessing the effectiveness and impact of a policy after it has been implemented.

Environmental Impact Statements

Documents that evaluate the potential effects of proposed projects or policies on the environment.

Fiscal Policy

Government strategies regarding taxation and spending aimed at influencing the economy.

Monetary Policy

The regulation of money supply and interest rates by a central bank to manage economic activity.

Discretionary Spending

Expenditures that are not mandated by existing law and can be adjusted through annual allocations.

National Debt

The total amount of money a government's borrowing which is owed to creditors.

Federal Budget

A financial plan that outlines government spending and revenue for a specific fiscal period.

Social Welfare Programs

Government initiatives designed to provide assistance and support to individuals in need.

Entitlement Programs

Government programs that guarantee certain benefits to specific groups of individuals.

Fiscal Year

A one-year period used for financial reporting and budgeting by governments and businesses.

Appropriations

Legal authorizations to incur obligations and make expenditures for specific government programs.

NAFTA

A trade agreement between the United States, Canada, and Mexico aimed at reducing trade barriers.

Mandatory Spending

Expenditures that are required by existing law and not subject to annual appropriations.

Constitutional Law

The body of law that interprets and applies the principles and provisions of a nation's constitution