The Organization of the Executive Branch

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and concepts related to the structure and function of the Executive Branch of the government as described in the lecture notes.

Executive Branch

The part of government responsible for executing laws, includes the president and millions of employees.

Cabinet Departments

15 divisions of the executive branch that execute laws and are headed by secretaries.

Civil Servants

Employees of government agencies who are appointed based on merit.

Political Appointees

Individuals chosen by the president to hold a position in the executive branch, often requiring Senate confirmation.

Filibuster

A tactic used in the Senate to block or delay action on legislation or nominations.

Executive Office of the President (EOP)

A group of advisors and assistants to the president that provides political and policy advice.

Independent Regulatory Commissions

Agencies that regulate specific areas, operating independently of the executive branch.

OMB (Office of Management and Budget)

Part of the EOP that prepares the federal budget and assesses the effectiveness of agency programs.

Recess Appointments

Appointments made by the president when the Senate is not in session.

Bureaucratic Drift

When government agencies stray from their intended purpose, often due to their own interests.

Loyalty

The expectation that cabinet members will support and advocate for the president's policies.

Deep State

The belief in a network of entrenched government officials who influence policies irrespective of elected officials.

Cabinet Confirmation

The process by which the Senate approves presidential nominees for cabinet positions.

Bureaucratic Disobedience

When departments or agencies do not follow the directives from the executive.

Hierarchical Organization

A structured format of an organization where employees are ranked according to authority.

Agency Turf

The instinct of agencies to protect their own functions and funding.

Political Value

The ability of a cabinet member to expand the political appeal of the president.

Size Management Challenges

The difficulties a president faces in managing a large executive branch.

Cabinet Portfolio

The specific responsibilities and areas that cabinet members oversee.

Eleanor Roosevelt

First lady known for her significant influence in civil rights and advocacy.