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.

For each of the following, explain one Constitutional provision that it can use to check the bureaucracy. Congress

Congress can legislate the policy to be followed based on its ability to provide for quote the general welfare. While this does not refer to welfare per se, the Congress can legislate to change what the bureaucracy does.

For each of the following, explain one Constitutional provision that it can use to check the bureaucracy. Interest groups

Interest groups, rightfully have little legal ability to influence the bureaucracy other than through the speech granted to them by the Constitution

For each of the following, describe one factor that contributes to bureaucratic independence. The complexity of public policy problems

The complexity of public policy problems is also vital to maintaining an independent bureaucracy. This is because only each subgroup fully understands the issues it is targeted with dealing with.

For each of the following, describe one factor that contributes to bureaucratic independence. The structure of the federal bureaucracy

The condition of the federal bureaucracy is such that it is divided into a variety of subgroups, each with a unique purpose. Because each subgroup is an expert on those things that it deals with, they can each retain a large measure of Independence. Because two, each section is so focused, there is little room for politics, that's keeping them politically independent.

For each of the following, explain one Constitutional provision that it can use to check the bureaucracy. The courts

The courts on their part can rule decisions made by the bureaucracy or at least, illegally should that be necessary

Describe one key characteristic of the merit system.

The key characteristic of the Merit system is that it allows appointment based on who is most qualified to, rather than on family name, for example. It becomes an issue of what, not who, you know.