Essay 22

The federal bureaucracy as part of the executive branch exercises substantial independence in implementing governmental policies and programs. Most workers in the federal bureaucracy are civil-service employees who are organized under a merit system. The merit system requires an organization to hire an promote someone based on their qualifications and experience (merit). It can also involve hiring based on testing.
There are a few factors that contribute to the independence of the bureaucracy, such as the structure. The bureaucracy is very large, and that in itself gives it a lot of power over the policymaking system. The complexity of public policy programs also contributes to bureaucracy independence. The bureaucracy is composed of many specialized units, and the president/congress often gives it responsibility to create or oversee policy that deals with those specialized areas, because they are experts. The bureaucracy can fill in the detailed of legislation containing gaps.
The Constitution contains provisions that can check the bureaucracy. Congress can impose appropriations by rewarding or punishing an agency for certain actions. It can also pass legislation that affects the bureaucracy or rejects presidential appointments to the bureaucracy. The courts can give rulings that limit bureaucratic practices, and through judicial review can declare acts unconstitutional. Interest groups can also limit the bureaucracy by lobbying and protesting.

2. The federal bureaucracy as part of the executive branch exercises substantial independence in implementing governmental policies and programs. Most workers in the federal bureaucracy are civil-service employees who are organized under a merit system.
(a) Describe one key characteristic of the merit system.
(b) For each of the following, describe one factor that contributes to bureaucratic independence.
• The structure of the federal bureaucracy
• The complexity of public policy problems
(c) For each of the following, explain one Constitutional provision that it can use to check the bureaucracy.
• Congress
• The courts
• Interest groups

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