Amer-Texas Govt Exam 2 Short-Ended Questions

Define Presidential Government and explain when we date its beginning.

Presidential government is a system where the president has strong leadership and central authority over the executive branch. It began with Franklin D. Roosevelt during the New Deal era, when the federal government expanded its role.

Explain 2 aspects of the administrative strategy.

Using executive orders to direct agencies and appointing loyal staff to important positions. These help the president control how policies are implemented.

What is the unitary executive theory? Name a president associated with this theory.

This theory says the president controls the entire executive branch and can act without interference. George W. Bush is associated with this theory.

Define the plural executive and give 1 example of how it limits the governor's powers.

In Texas, the plural executive means that power is split among several elected officials. For example, the Attorney General is elected separately, so the governor can't control legal decisions.

Explain 2 types of agencies in the federal bureaucracy.

Clientele agencies that serve specific groups like farmers, and revenue agencies that collect money such as the IRS.

Explain 2 ways bureaucrats can be controlled.

Presidents control them by appointing leaders and issuing orders. Congress control them through oversight and funding.

What is the key motivation for a bureaucrat? Why?

Bureaucrats often want to grow their agency’s budget and influence. Bigger budgets means more power and job security.

What is coalitional drift and why does it matter for a bureaucratic agency?

Coalitional drift is when political leaders change, and new ones come in and want different policies. Agencies may struggle to adjust quickly to those policies.

What are 2 ways that Governor Abbott has maximized his power even though the governorship is weak?

He’s used emergency powers during crises and appointed allies to key boards and commissions.

Discuss 2 members of the plural executive other than the governor.

The Lieutenant Governor oversees the Senate and controls budget decisions. The Comptroller manages state finances and tax collection.

Explain how the Texas governor's pardon power differs from that of the US president.

The Texas governor needs approval from the Board of Pardons and Paroles, but the US president can pardon independently.

What is the Railroad Commission and how is it selected?

It regulates oil, gas, and energy in Texas. Members are elected statewide.

Explain the State Board of Education's role and selection process.

It creates and implements school policies and curriculum. Members are elected from districts across the state of Texas.

What is the Sunset Advisory Commission and how does it affect Texas government?

It reviews state agencies to see if they should continue or be shut down. It helps keep the government efficient.