Executive Departments
• There are 15 Executive Departments that serve
under the President. The leader of each
department is known as “The Secretary of
___________” (except for the Department of
Justice. That leader is the Attorney General).
These individuals are chosen by the President and
approved by the Senate. They will serve on the
President’s cabinet. All agencies and regulatory
commissions fall under these 15 departments.
• https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Cdau8acz8
Department of State
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Leader is Secretary of State.
Helps the President execute foreign policy.
Foreign Policy is a plan for dealing with other nations.
Manages US’s relationship with other countries.
Runs American government offices (embassies) in other countries.
Protects American’s rights while working or traveling abroad.
Consulates are set up to help Americans in various countries.
Responsible for issuing passports (travel and visit).
Responsible for issuing visas (work or go to school).
Department of Treasury
• Leader is Secretary of Treasury.
• Financial advisor to the President.
• Handles the Nation’s money including collecting, borrowing
and spending.
• IRS-Internal Revenue Service collects income taxes from
individuals and businesses.
• Began the Secret Service (Presidential Guards) in an effort to
fight counterfeiting.
Department of Defense
• Leader is Secretary of Defense.
• Secretary of Defense and the Joint Chiefs of Staff (highest
ranking military officers) are the military advisor to the
President.
• Largest department with the highest expenditures in the
Executive Branch.
• Carries out the President’s orders as the Commander in Chief.
Department of Justice
• Leader is the Attorney General.
• Responsible for investigating crimes, tracking down
lawbreakers, putting them on trial, and providing punishment.
• FBI (Federal Bureau of Investigation) and INS (Immigration and
Naturalization Services) are divisions of the Department of
Justice.