Understanding Federal Government Oversight

The video discusses the three branches of the U.S. government, focusing on how Congress exercises oversight over the executive branch. It explains the federal bureaucracy's size and the two primary oversight tools: budget control and committee hearings. An example of a Senate committee hearing with the FBI is provided to illustrate these concepts.

What are the two houses that make up Congress?

• House of Commons and House of Lords

• House of Representatives and Senate

• House of Delegates and Senate

• House of Assembly and Senate

Who is at the head of the executive branch?

• The Chief Justice

• The Vice President

• The Speaker of the House

• The President

Approximately how many people make up the federal bureaucracy?

• 1.5 million

• 2.8 million

• 3.5 million

• 4.2 million

What is the term used to describe Congress's control over the budget?

• Power of the People

• Power of the State

• Power of the Sword

• Power of the Purse

What is one method Congress uses to oversee executive agencies?

• Public Referendums

• Committee Hearings

• Executive Orders

• Judicial Review

Why might Congress reduce the budget of an agency?

• If the agency is performing well

• If the agency is underfunded

• If the agency is overspending

• If the agency is popular

What is a limitation of congressional oversight?

• Unlimited budgetary power

• Limited knowledge of all agency details

• Complete control over all executive actions

• Direct management of executive agencies

What was the focus of the Senate committee hearing example?

• National security issues

• Relocation of FBI buildings

• Healthcare reform

• Budget allocation for the military

What was a major reason for the consolidation discussed in the hearing?

• To expand operations

• To save rental costs

• To improve technology

• To increase security

What was the senator's concern during the committee hearing?

• The increase in federal taxes

• The accuracy of the information presented

• The speed of the relocation process

• The lack of public involvement