What is the definition of Bureaucracy?
The administrative system of the government; the 'how' of government.
What is the definition of Executive Branch?
President, VP, departments, and agencies they oversee; the 'who' that directs the bureaucracy.
What is the definition of Regulatory Agencies?
Independent groups like the EPA or FCC that make and enforce rules.
What is the definition of Civil Service?
The permanent, merit-based workforce of the government.
What is the definition of Red Tape?
Frustrating rules and procedures that can slow things down.
What is the definition of Administrative Law?
The legal framework for how agencies operate.
What is the definition of Rulemaking?
The process of creating regulations, including public input.
What is the definition of Interest Groups?
Organizations that try to influence policy; voices that lobby for specific interests.
What is the definition of Iron Triangle?
Cozy relationship between interest groups, agencies, and congressional committees.
What is the definition of Mission Creep?
When an agency expands its responsibilities beyond its original purpose.
What was the impact of the Pendleton Act (1883)?
Established the merit system, moving away from the spoils system; jobs based on merit, not political favors.
What was the impact of the Hatch Act (1939)?
Limits political activities of federal employees while on the job.
What was the impact of the Whistleblower Protection Act of 1989?
Protects employees who report government waste or corruption.
What is the role of Executive Agencies?
Part of the executive branch, headed by an appointee of the president.
What is the role of Independent Agencies?
Operate outside of departments, with specific missions (e.g., Federal Reserve, EPA).
What is the role of Regulatory Agencies?
Enforce rules in specific industries (e.g., SEC, FCC).
What is the role of Government Corporations?
Government-owned businesses that provide services (e.g., USPS).
What is the role of Departments?
The largest agencies, each responsible for a broad policy area (e.g., Defense, Education).
What is the role of the Cabinet?
Made up of 15 department heads (Secretaries, except for the Attorney General); appointed by the President, approved by the Senate.
What is the role of the Office of Personnel Management (OPM)?
The government's HR department; administers the Civil Service Exam and hires based on merit.
What is the role of the Merit Systems Protection Board?
Investigates corruption and protects whistleblowers within the bureaucracy.
