Bureaucratic Agencies and Control

A situation where a regulatory agency, designed to oversee a particular industry, ends up acting in the interests of that industry rather than the public good.

Groups consisting of interest groups, congressional subcommittees, and bureaucratic agencies that work together to shape policy in their area of interest.

Informal networks of individuals and groups who share an interest in a particular policy area and work together to influence policy.

The power of bureaucrats to make decisions within the bounds of their authority, often interpreting laws or regulations in a way that shapes policy.

The president's ability to appoint individuals to top positions within the bureaucracy, subject to Senate approval.

The president's authority to remove individuals from top positions within the bureaucracy.

A written directive issued by the president that has the force of law and instructs specific departments or agencies on how to implement policy.

The challenge of controlling the federal bureaucracy due to its size, complexity, and the division of authority among different branches of government.

Public disapproval of President Bush's response to Hurricane Katrina, with only 31% of Americans approving of his handling.

Following Katrina, officials questioned the effectiveness of relying on private contractors for disaster relief and governmental interference with private sector efforts.

Many private organizations and individuals stepped up to help in the aftermath of Katrina, demonstrating the power of community involvement.

Federalism and the COVID-19 pandemic illustrated both benefits and drawbacks of decentralized policymaking, showcasing the need for balance and effective implementation.

States enacted differing policies to combat COVID-19, leading to a patchwork of approaches with varying levels of success.

The complex interplay of federal agencies and bureaucratic structures shapes government actions and often triggers calls for reform, demonstrating the challenges of managing a large bureaucracy.

Americans expect effective and strong national policies but also worry about the concentration of power within the federal government, highlighting the enduring debate about the balance of power.

The separation of powers and the realities of federalism influence the behaviors of federal departments, agencies, and bureaus, demonstrating their complex interplay.

The power of the Senate to approve or reject presidential appointments to high-ranking positions within the federal government.

Process where Congress sets aside money for specific government programs and agencies through legislation.

A process by which Congress supervises and scrutinizes the activities of executive branch agencies to ensure they are following laws and using funds appropriately.

A nonpartisan governmental agency that provides auditing, evaluation, and investigative services to Congress and federal agencies, focusing on accountability and efficiency.

The body of rules, procedures, and practices that govern the operation of a government, especially at the federal level.

The power of Congress to create, abolish, or modify government agencies and programs through legislation.

The impact of judicial rulings on the actions and scope of government agencies.

The tendency of the media to underreport and neglect to cover the workings of government agencies, leading to public unawareness of their activities.

The ability of public opinion to influence the behavior of government agencies, typically amplified when agencies are involved in major crises.

The ability of executive agencies to delay or resist the implementation of policies passed by Congress or the President.

The process by which government agencies make decisions and carry out their tasks to achieve their goals.

A process by which Congress, through its committees and oversight mechanisms, gathers information and investigates the performance of executive branch agencies.

The ability of agencies to make rules and regulations that have the force of law.