AP Gov Unit 2 Part 3 Vocab(2.12-2.15)

Federal Bureaucracy

A system of government agencies and offices that implement and administer federal laws and policies. It consists of various departments, commissions, and other entities responsible for specific functions.

Executive agency

a part of the federal bureaucracy responsible for implementing government policies and regulations.

government corporation

A government agency created to provide a specific service that may operate like a private business, funded by revenue from its operations.

issue network

A collection of interests and organizations that collaborate to influence policy making in specific areas, often involving multiple stakeholders.

patronage

the practice of selecting individuals for government positions based on their political support rather than their qualifications.

civil service

A system of hiring and promotion based on merit rather than political affiliation, intended to create a professional and nonpartisan public service.

executive department

A major administrative unit of the executive branch of the government responsible for implementing laws and policies, typically led by a cabinet member.

commission

an organization or group of individuals appointed to perform a specific task or duty, often related to government and regulatory matters.

iron triangle

A strong, mutually beneficial relationship between congressional committees, interest groups, and administrative agencies that work together to influence policy in a specific area.

merit system

A system of hiring and promotion in the civil service based on qualifications, performance, and ability rather than political patronage.

discretionary power

The enforcement of laws is up to the bureaucracy

Rulemaking authority

The bureaucracy has the power to make and enforce laws

Department of Homeland Security

A part of the federal beauracracy that deals with terrorism and international level threats

Department of Transportation

Cabinet-level executive agency that oversees national transportation systems to ensure safety, efficiency, and accessibility.

Department of Veteran Affairs

Cabinet-level executive department that gives healthcare, benefits, and cemetery services to U.S. military veterans and their families.

Department of Education

Cabinet-level executive branch agency responsible for promoting educational excellence and ensuring equal access to education.

Environmental Protection Agency

Federal agency created to protect human health and the environment.

Federal Elections Committee

Independent regulatory agency created to oversee and enforce federal campaign finance laws.

Securities and Exchanges Committee

Independent U.S. government agency created to regulate the securities industry and protect investors.

Congressional Oversight

Congressional power to review federal agencies, programs, and policy implementation.

Power of the Purse

Congress ability to control government spending and taxation

compliance monitoring

Government agencies ensure that other groups are following federal laws and regulations.