The Executive Branch of the United States Government

Overview

• The executive branch is a major component of the U.S government highlighted in blue-green.
• Contains approximately 2.6 million people.
• President is at the top, indicating a powerful role.

Challenges in Presidential Power

• Size and Management: Managing such a large number of people is complex, requiring multiple management layers.
• Appointments: President can make thousands of appointments, but most of the federal bureaucracy is not appointed by the president.
  • Federal employees are part of the civil service system and are professionals in their field.
  • They might not always align with the president’s goals.

Limitations on Presidential Control

• Firing Authority:
  • President can dismiss senior appointees (cabinet secretaries) at will.
  • Lower-level staff can't be fired without just cause.
  • Supreme Court rulings restrict arbitrary dismissals.
  • Investigations by parts of the executive branch (e.g., Department of Justice) may occur against the president's wishes.
  • Historical examples include investigations during Nixon, Clinton, and Trump administrations.

Presidential Levers of Control

• Appointments: Potentially over 4,000 positions can be filled, influencing department leadership.
• Firing Authority:
  • Senior political appointments can be dismissed, but this could have political consequences.
• Reallocation of Responsibilities and Budget:
  • Difficult to execute due to bureaucratic complexity.
  • Budgetary control ultimately lies with Congress.

Executive Orders

• Used to guide the interpretation and execution of laws by the bureaucracy.
• Helps align the bureaucracy with presidential goals.

Conclusion

• The presidency is a powerful office but not absolute in control.
• The president must navigate a massive bureaucracy and separation of powers.
• Various tools exist for influencing the direction and goals of federal employees.