Understanding U.S. Government Agencies

The video tutorial explains the structure and functions of the federal bureaucracy, which is responsible for implementing laws passed by Congress. It covers the different types of bureaucratic organizations, including cabinet departments, independent executive agencies, independent regulatory agencies, and government corporations. Each type has distinct roles, leadership, and levels of independence from political influence. The tutorial highlights how these organizations operate, their leadership appointments, and their impact on policy and public services.

What is the primary role of the executive branch of the federal government?

• To implement laws

• To interpret laws

• To create laws

• To fund laws

Who leads the Justice Department?

• Attorney General

• Secretary of Justice

• Chief Justice

• President

What percentage of the federal workforce is protected from being fired by the President?

• 50%

• 75%

• 98%

• 100%

Which of the following is an example of an independent executive agency?

• Federal Reserve Board

• Postal Service

• Environmental Protection Agency

• Department of Defense

What distinguishes independent regulatory agencies from other federal bureaucracies?

• They serve set terms and are independent from political pressure

• They are part of the cabinet departments

• They are influenced directly by the President

• They are funded entirely by private enterprises

Which agency is responsible for setting monetary policy in the United States?

• Consumer Financial Protection Bureau

• Federal Reserve Board

• Securities and Exchange Commission

• Federal Communications Commission

Which of the following is NOT a function of independent regulatory agencies?

• Managing sectors of the economy

• Adjudicating disputes

• Creating laws

• Protecting public interest

Why are government corporations maintained by the federal government?

• To generate profit for the government

• To ensure essential services are provided to all citizens

• To regulate the stock market

• To compete with private businesses

Which is the oldest government corporation in the United States?

• NASA

• Federal Reserve Board

• Social Security Administration

• Postal Service

What is a key characteristic of government corporations?

• They are entirely funded by taxpayer money

• They operate without any fees from customers

• They are always profitable

• They sometimes require taxpayer support to balance their books