gov 11/22

The federal bureaucracy is composed of departments, agencies, commissions, and government corporations that implement policy by:

1. Writing and enforcing regulations

2. Issuing fines

3. Testifying before Congress

4. Forming iron triangles (alliances of congressional committees, bureaucratic agencies, and interest groups that are prominent in specific policy areas)

5. Creating issue networks (temporary coalitions that form to promote a common issue or agenda)

The civil service primarily uses a ______ system that prioritizes hiring and promotion based on professionalism, specialization, and neutrality, as opposed to political patronage, whereby bureaucratic jobs are _______ appointed.

merit; politically

The federal bureaucracy uses ________ power as delegated by Congress to interpret and implement policies.

discretionary

Through their __________ authority, federal bureaucratic agencies utilize their discretion to _____ and _____ regulations.

rule-making; create; enforce

Ensures that legislation is implemented as intended

congressional oversight

Congressional oversight of the bureaucracy to ensure that legislation is implemented as intended includes:

1. Review, monitoring, and supervision of bureaucratic agencies

2. Investigation and committee hearings of bureaucratic activity

3. Power of the purse (the ability of Congress to check the bureaucracy by appropriating or withholding funds)

As a means to curtail the use of presidential power, congressional oversight serves as a check of ____________ __________.

executive authorization

Presidential _______________, __________________, and ___________________ affect how

executive branch agencies carry out the goals of the administration.

Presidential ideology, authority, and influence

Ensures that funds are being used properly and regulations are being followed.

Compliance monitoring

Compliance monitoring ensures that funds are being used properly and regulations are being followed.

_____________ and ___________________ powers of Congress, the president, and the courts over the bureaucracy are used to maintain its accountability.

formal; informal