apgov chapter 7

federal bureaucracy

the departments and agencies within the executive branch that carry out the laws of the nation. (p. 216)

bureaucrat

an official employed within a government bureaucracy. (p. 218)

political patronage

filling of administrative positions as a reward for support, rather than solely on merit. (p. 221)

Pendleton Act

an act of Congress that created the first United States Civil Service Commission to draw up and enforce rules on hiring, promotion, and tenure of office within the civil service (also known as Civil Service Reform Act of 1883). (p. 221)

federal civil service

the merit-based bureaucracy, excluding the armed forces and political appointments. (p. 221)

merit system

a system of hiring and promotion based on competitive testing results, education, and other qualifications rather than politics and personal connections. (p. 221)

executive branch departments

Departments that assist the president in executing the laws of the nation.

Congress

The legislative body that has the power to approve nominees and impeach executive officers to control the power of the executive.

cabinet departments

Initially not set in number or responsibilities, these departments have changed over time according to the needs of the nation.

executive political appointees

Individuals who serve at the top of the federal bureaucracy.

career civil servants

Professionals who provide stability from administration to administration within the federal bureaucracy.

iron triangles

Coordinated and mutually beneficial activities of the bureaucracy, Congress, and interest groups to achieve shared policy goals.

issue network

Webs of influence between interest groups, policymakers, and policy advocates.

advantages of policies protecting civil servants

What are the advantages and disadvantages of policies that protect civil servants from termination?

disadvantages of policies protecting civil servants

What are the advantages and disadvantages of policies that protect civil servants from termination?

iron triangles and issue networks

In what ways do iron triangles and issue networks benefit and harm representative democracy?

implementation

the bureaucracy's role in putting into action the laws that Congress has passed. (p. 231)

bureaucratic discretion

the power to decide how a law is implemented and, what Congress meant when it passed the law. (p. 231)

regulation

the process through which the federal bureaucracy makes rules that have the force of law, to carry out the laws passed by Congress. (p. 231)

bureaucratic adjudication

when the federal bureaucracy settles disputes between parties that arise over the implementation of federal laws or determines which individuals or groups are covered under a regulation or program. (p. 232)

What are three ways the president can influence the federal bureaucracy?

Through the appointment of federal officials, submitting a budget, and issuing executive orders.

How can Congress control the bureaucracy?

By passing laws that set priorities, providing funding, and holding oversight hearings.

What role do judicial decisions play in bureaucratic action?

Judicial decisions may restrict bureaucratic action.

What are some efforts to reform the bureaucracy?

Efforts include devolving responsibilities to the states, deregulation, and privatizing government responsibilities to increase competitiveness.

What challenges do the president and Congress face in controlling the bureaucracy?

Despite having tools for control, it is difficult due to the complexity and size of the bureaucracy, as well as entrenched interests.