Executive Branch Qs

1

The president of a country plays a crucial role in various aspects of governance, including foreign policy, domestic policy, military readiness, and governmental administration. In terms of foreign policy, the president is typically responsible for representing the nation's interests on the global stage. They engage in diplomatic efforts, negotiate treaties and agreements, and maintain relationships with other countries.

Regarding domestic policy, the president's role is to propose and advocate for legislation that addresses domestic issues and concerns. They work with Congress to pass bills related to areas such as healthcare, education, taxation, and infrastructure. The president also has the power to issue executive orders (Krutz, 2017).

In terms of military readiness, the president serves as the commander-in-chief of the armed forces. They have the responsibility of overseeing the military and making decisions regarding national defense and security. The president consults with military advisors, receives intelligence briefings, and makes critical decisions related to the deployment of troops.

In governmental administration, the president leads the executive branch of the government. They appoint and manage key officials, such as cabinet members, ambassadors, and agency heads. The president also prepares and presents the annual budget, interacts with Congress on legislative matters, and provides leadership and direction to the various departments.

2

The evolution of the presidency from a weak to a strong office can be traced through the history of the United States. Initially, the Founding Fathers designed the presidency as a limited executive role with checks and balances to prevent abuse of power. But one significant factor in the strengthening of the presidency was the growth of the United States as a global power. The demands of leading a nation on the world stage required a more robust executive branch. Presidents such as Theodore Roosevelt and Franklin D. Roosevelt expanded the role of the president in foreign affairs and took on an active leadership role in addressing domestic crises, such as the Great Depression (Krutz, 2017).

Another factor was the emergence of a modern administrative state and public expectations and perceptions. The president became a symbol of national unity and leadership, especially during times of crisis. Today's presidency can be described as a powerful office with significant authority and responsibilities. The president's role extends beyond the traditional boundaries set by the Constitution, with executive orders, regulatory actions, and public influence playing key roles in shaping policy and national discourse.

3

The path from the intention to run for office to taking the oath of office as president typically involves several key stages. An individual interested in running for office typically starts by exploring the possibility, assessing public opinion, and discussing it with their advisors and potential supporters. Once they make the decision, they announce their candidacy publicly. If running for a major party nomination, candidates participate in a series of state primaries or caucuses. National conventions and a general election follow. Then the electoral college votes based on the outcome of the general election (Krutz, 2017).

4

The Electoral College is a system used in the United States to elect the president. It consists of a group of electors who formally cast their...…have control over substantial resources, including budgetary allocations, personnel, and infrastructure (Krutz, 2017).

10

The bureaucracy is held accountable for its actions or lack thereof through various mechanisms. First, there is Congressional Oversight: The Congress plays a crucial role in holding the bureaucracy accountable. Congressional committees have the power to conduct hearings, investigations, and audits to oversee the implementation of policies and programs. They can call bureaucrats to testify, request documents, and use their legislative and budgetary powers to influence and oversee bureaucratic actions.

Second, there is Judicial Review: The judiciary can review bureaucratic actions and decisions to ensure they comply with the law. Citizens and interest groups can also challenge bureaucratic decisions in court, seeking judicial remedies or injunctions.

Third, there is Inspector General Oversight: Many bureaucratic agencies have internal watchdogs in the form of inspector generals (IGs). IGs are independent and objective entities responsible for auditing and investigating agency activities to ensure compliance with regulations, identify waste or fraud, and recommend corrective actions.

Fourth is Whistleblower Protection: Whistleblower protections aim to encourage individuals within the bureaucracy to report wrongdoing or inefficiencies without fear of retaliation. Whistleblowers can bring attention to bureaucratic misconduct and facilitate accountability.

Fifth are Administrative Procedures: Bureaucratic agencies are often required to follow specific administrative procedures, such as notice-and-comment rulemaking, to ensure transparency and public input. These procedures provide opportunities for public scrutiny and input, enhancing bureaucratic accountability.

Finally, there is Public and Media Scrutiny: The media and the public play a crucial role in holding the bureaucracy accountable by exposing and highlighting bureaucratic actions, inefficiencies, or failures. Public pressure and scrutiny…