Which option is NOT a presidential power over the bureaucracy?

• A. Appoint and remove agency heads
• B. Reorganize the bureaucracy
• C. Pass legislation that alters an agency’s functions
• D. Issue executive orders

Answer: (C)

The important idea is that the president can shape how the bureaucracy operates through staffing, orders, and proposed reorganizations, but cannot create or change laws by himself. Appointing and removing agency heads is a direct way the president controls the bureaucracy because the president selects top leaders and can dismiss them, with Senate confirmation typically required for many key positions. Reorganizing the bureaucracy is also within presidential influence, as the president can propose reorganizations and use executive actions to align agencies, though major changes often involve statutory authority or Congressional approval. Issuing executive orders is a formal tool to direct how agencies carry out their duties within the framework of existing laws. By contrast, passing legislation that alters an agency’s functions is not a presidential power—the ability to make or change laws lies with Congress, which can enact statutes that redefine an agency’s mission, functions, or structure.