gov unit 2b

Executive

Government branch led by the president that enforces laws

Cabinet

Group of department heads advising the president

Impeachment

Congress charging and possibly removing officials for misconduct.

executive orders

President's directives to agencies on enforcing laws.

Executive agreements

President's deals with foreign leaders without Senate approval

veto

a presidents power to reject a bill from congress

commander in chief

President's role leading the military.

pardon

President's forgiveness of federal crimes.

inherent powers

powers not explicitly mentioned in the constitution but considered essential for the executive branch to function effectively, such as issuing executive orders, managing foreign affairs like recognizing nations, or responding to emergencies,

informal powers

unofficial powers influences and abilities, such as bargaining with Congress, using the "bully pulpit" to shape public opinion, issuing signing statements, or leading their political party, that arise from the office's prestige and position rather than explicit constitutional grants.

executive office of the president

Staff and offices aiding the president directly.

bully pulpit

President's platform to sway public opinion.

signing statements

President's comments on bills when signing them into law.

bureaucracy

Federal agencies and workers enforcing laws.

spoils systems

Rewarding supporters with government jobs

patronage

Giving jobs or favors for political loyalty

merit system

Hiring based on skills and tests.

civil service system

Merit-based federal employment rules.

22nd amendment

Limits presidents to two elected terms.

Independent executive agencies

Agencies outside Cabinet with some presidential independence.​

independent regulatory commissions

Boards regulating industries like FCC or SEC.

government corporations

Business-like agencies like USPS funding themselves.

hatch act

• Bans federal workers from partisan politics on duty.​

iron triangles

Tight links of agencies, Congress, and interest groups on policy.

issue networks

Loose expert groups influencing specific policies.

administrative discretion

Bureaucrats' flexibility in rule-making.

administrative adjudication

Agencies holding hearings to settle disputes.