Administrative agencies are crucial parts of the government, responsible for implementing, administering, and enforcing laws. However, they need to be under the control of elected officials for several reasons. Firstly, elected officials are accountable to the public, ensuring that administrative agencies are not misused of power. They also set policy direction for the government, ensuring that their actions align with these policies. Secondly, the control of administrative agencies is part of a system of checks and balances, preventing any one part of the government from becoming too powerful. …show more content…
They can pass laws that limit or change agency actions, which require a majority vote in both houses of Congress and the president's signature. Oversight powers allow them to investigate agency actions and hold officials accountable through hearings, reports, and audits. They can also use "soft power" such as public criticism or threats of future action. Budget control allows them to influence agency actions by increasing or decreasing funding or placing conditions on how funds are used. Appointments, particularly by the president, allow them to influence agency direction. Congress can review and potentially overturn agency regulations under the Congressional Review Act. Finally, elected officials can influence how laws are interpreted and implemented by agencies. These mechanisms ensure agencies are accountable to elected officials and the