What is the role of the President of the United States (POTUS)?
The POTUS serves as the head of state and government, commanding the executive branch of the federal government and acting as the face of the nation.
What powers are granted to the POTUS by the Constitution?
The Constitution grants the POTUS powers such as vetoing legislation, negotiating treaties, and serving as commander-in-chief of the armed forces.
What is the Executive Office of the President (EOP)?
The EOP is a group of agencies that support the POTUS in managing the executive branch and implementing policies.
What does the term 'bureaucracy' refer to?
Bureaucracy refers to the administrative system governing any large institution, characterized by hierarchical structure and the implementation of policies.
What are the main functions of federal bureaucracies?
Federal bureaucracies implement laws, provide services, regulate activities, and ensure enforcement of federal policies.
How does the POTUS influence the bureaucracy?
The POTUS influences the bureaucracy through appointments, budget proposals, and executive orders.
What is the significance of the Cabinet?
The Cabinet is composed of the heads of executive departments and advises the POTUS on matters related to their respective areas.
What is the difference between the 'spoils system' and the 'merit system'?
The spoils system rewards political supporters with government jobs, while the merit system hires based on qualifications and performance.
What is the function of independent regulatory agencies?
Independent regulatory agencies oversee specific economic activities and enforce regulations to protect public interests.
How do Congressional committees impact bureaucracy?
Congressional committees oversee the bureaucracies by reviewing agency performance, holding hearings, and influencing funding and legislation.
What is the term limit for the President of the United States?
The President can serve a maximum of two four-year terms.
Who can the President appoint to federal positions?
The President can appoint judges, ambassadors, and heads of executive departments, subject to Senate confirmation.
What is the role of the Vice President?
The Vice President assists the President and serves as President of the Senate.
What is a presidential veto?
A presidential veto is the power of the President to reject legislation passed by Congress.
How can Congress override a presidential veto?
Congress can override a presidential veto with a two-thirds majority vote in both houses.
What is the War Powers Resolution?
The War Powers Resolution limits the President's ability to send U.S. forces into combat without congressional approval.
What is executive privilege?
Executive privilege allows the President and other executive officials to withhold information from Congress or the courts.
What role do executive orders play?
Executive orders are directives issued by the President to manage the operations of the federal government.
What does the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) do?
The OMB assists the President in preparing the federal budget and overseeing its implementation.
What is the purpose of the National Security Council (NSC)?
The NSC advises the President on national security and foreign policy matters.
What is the role of the Chief of Staff?
The Chief of Staff manages the President's schedule and advises on policy and political strategy.
What is a signing statement?
A signing statement is a written declaration by the President when signing a bill into law, outlining their interpretation of the law.
What is the Presidential Succession Act?
The Presidential Succession Act establishes the order of succession if the President is unable to serve.
What agency is responsible for federal elections?
The Federal Election Commission (FEC) administers and enforces federal election laws.
What is the purpose of the Government Accountability Office (GAO)?
The GAO audits government spending and ensures accountability in federal programs.
What distinguishes a cabinet department from an independent agency?
Cabinet departments are headed by secretaries appointed by the President, while independent agencies are governed by a board or commission.
What is the role of the Secretaries in the Cabinet?
Cabinet Secretaries are the heads of federal departments and advise the President on relevant issues.
What is the significance of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)?
The FBI investigates federal crimes and ensures national security.
What is the difference between policy formulation and policy implementation?
Policy formulation is the process of creating policies, while policy implementation is the execution of those policies by bureaucracies.
How do administrative agencies create regulations?
Administrative agencies create regulations through a process that includes rule-making, public comment, and finalization.
What is meant by 'iron triangle' in government?
An 'iron triangle' refers to the stable relationships between bureaucracies, Congress, and interest groups that influence policy.
What checks does the Senate have on presidential appointments?
The Senate must confirm presidential appointments through a majority vote.
What is the function of the Office of Personnel Management (OPM)?
The OPM manages the federal workforce, including hiring and employee benefits.
What is meant by 'bureaucratic drift'?
Bureaucratic drift is the tendency for bureaucracies to implement policies in a way that diverges from the original intent.
How can the President influence the judiciary?
The President can influence the judiciary by appointing federal judges, including Supreme Court justices.
What role do Congressional hearings play in oversight of the bureaucracy?
Congressional hearings allow Congress to investigate and oversee the actions of federal agencies.
What are discretionary and rule-making authority?
Discretionary authority allows bureaucrats to make decisions within the framework of existing laws; rule-making authority enables them to create regulations.
What is the purpose of the Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP)?
The OSTP advises the President on science, technology, and innovation policy.
How do interest groups influence the bureaucracy?
Interest groups lobby bureaucratic agencies to shape policies and regulations in their favor.
What is the Federal Reserve System's role?
The Federal Reserve regulates the monetary policy of the United States and oversees its banking system.
How does the bureaucracy contribute to public policy?
The bureaucracy implements and enforces laws, providing the structure for public policy development.
What is the relationship between the President and federal agencies?
The President oversees federal agencies and has the power to appoint their leaders, guiding their priorities.
What is the role of the United States Trade Representative?
The USTR is responsible for negotiating trade agreements and representing U.S. trade interests.
How can the public influence bureaucracy?
The public can influence bureaucracy through voting, activism, and participation in public comment periods.
What is the significance of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)?
The EPA regulates environmental protection standards and enforces laws related to air and water quality.