How effective is Congressional Oversight? Flashcards
(20 cards)
What is congressional oversight?
Congressional oversight is the review, monitoring, and supervision of federal agencies, programs, activities, and policy implementation by Congress.
True or False: Congressional oversight is primarily a function of the Senate.
False: Congressional oversight is a function of both the House of Representatives and the Senate.
Fill in the blank: The primary purpose of congressional oversight is to ensure __________.
accountability in the executive branch.
What tools does Congress use for oversight?
Congress uses hearings, investigations, reports, and the power of the purse as tools for oversight.
Which committee is often involved in oversight of the executive branch?
The House Oversight and Reform Committee.
Name one limitation of congressional oversight.
Partisan politics can limit the effectiveness of congressional oversight.
What is the role of the Government Accountability Office (GAO) in congressional oversight?
The GAO provides auditing, evaluation, and investigative services for Congress.
True or False: Congressional oversight can lead to legislative changes.
True: Effective oversight can result in new laws or amendments to existing laws.
What is a congressional hearing?
A congressional hearing is a meeting of a congressional committee to gather information or opinions on a specific issue.
How can the president influence congressional oversight?
The president can influence oversight through executive orders, vetoes, and by controlling the implementation of laws.
Multiple Choice: Which of the following is NOT a form of congressional oversight? A) Investigative hearings B) Executive orders C) Budget reviews D) Reports
B) Executive orders
What is the significance of the War Powers Resolution in relation to congressional oversight?
The War Powers Resolution requires the president to consult Congress before engaging in military action, enhancing congressional oversight of military affairs.
Fill in the blank: Congressional oversight is often criticized for being __________.
ineffective due to political gridlock.
Short Answer: Why is public opinion important for congressional oversight?
Public opinion can pressure Congress to act and hold the executive branch accountable.
What is the purpose of a subpoena in congressional oversight?
A subpoena is used to compel witnesses to testify or produce documents during investigations.
True or False: Congressional oversight has no impact on federal agency performance.
False: Congressional oversight can significantly impact the performance and accountability of federal agencies.
What is the relationship between congressional oversight and checks and balances?
Congressional oversight is a critical component of the checks and balances designed to prevent abuse of power by the executive branch.
Multiple Choice: Which branch of government does congressional oversight primarily monitor? A) Legislative B) Executive C) Judicial D) None of the above
B) Executive
Short Answer: How does partisanship affect congressional oversight?
Partisanship can lead to selective oversight, where one party targets the actions of the opposing party, undermining the objectivity of oversight.
What is the role of the Congressional Research Service (CRS) in oversight?
The CRS provides nonpartisan research and analysis to assist Congress in its oversight responsibilities.
