Who and What makes up the US Cabinet?

 

Who and What makes up the US Cabinet?

The US Cabinet consists of key departments within the Executive Branch, designed to provide crucial advice to the President on matters specific to their areas. Each department is led by a secretary who manages activities and reports directly to the President. Appointments are made by the President but require Senate confirmation for nominees. Importantly, these appointees can be dismissed at any time without needing Senate approval.

Cabinet departments include State, Treasury, Defense, Attorney General, Interior, Agriculture, Commerce, Labor, Health and Human Services, Housing and Urban Development, Transportation, Energy, Education, Veterans Affairs, and Homeland Security.

What Is the Role of the US Cabinet? 

The primary role of the US Cabinet is to counsel the President on pertinent issues related to their offices. While they lack governing power themselves; they work closely with presidential directives that address American needs.

Which Departments Comprise the US Cabinet?

Atop this influential group sits the Vice President—the highest-ranking member—followed by various secretaries overseeing federal government operations:

1. Department of State: Created by Thomas Jefferson

Initially known as the Department of Foreign Affairs, this department focuses on international relations and foreign policy for the nation. The helm is held by the Secretary of State, who ranks first in line within the Cabinet succession after the Vice President.

2. Department of Treasury: Created by Alexander Hamilton

Guided by the Secretary of the Treasury, this department oversees currency production in America. It also manages public debt and plays a crucial role in finance, taxation laws, and fiscal strategies.

3. Department of Defense:  Created by Congress to combine both Dept of Navy and War Department in 1947.

With leadership from the Secretary of Defense, this department is tasked with national security issues as well as overseeing all operations related to the United States Armed Forces.

4. Attorney General: Created by President George Washington in 1789

As head of the Justice Department, the Attorney General acts as chief legal advisor to the U.S. Government. This role includes supervising various agencies like the FBI, DEA, and Bureau of Prisons under DOJ’s umbrella

5. Department of the Interior Created by Robert James Walker while serving President Polk

The Secretary of the Interior oversees this department, which manages federal lands with a focus on conservation and natural resources like wildlife, dams, and reservoirs. It also addresses territorial issues and Native American affairs while handling responsibilities related to national parks.

6. Department of Agriculture: Created by President Lincoln

Established by Abraham Lincoln, the USDA focuses on farming, food production, and rural economic development. It's a vital resource for farmers and food manufacturers in navigating crop sales and distribution.

7. Department of Commerce: Created by President Theadore Roosevelt

Headed by the Secretary of Commerce, this department promotes economic growth through industrial standards setting and data collection for informed policymaking.

8. Department of Labor: Created by President Taft

Led by the Secretary of Labor, this department administers unemployment benefits and enforces workplace safety regulations to protect employees' rights.

9. Department of Health and Human Services: Created by President Jimmy Carter

This department is directed by its secretary to manage public health initiatives ranging from physical fitness programs to opioid prevention strategies as well as adoption services.

10. Department of Housing and Urban Development: Created by President John F Kennedy

This department is at the forefront of managing initiatives like Housing and Community Planning and Development. They are key players in crafting legislation that shapes urban development and promotes fair housing practices.

11. Department of Transportation: Created by both President Lyndon B Johnson and Najeeb Halaby

Led by the Secretary of Transportation, this department ensures that American transportation systems are both safe and up-to-date. Commonly referred to as USDOT or DOT, it orchestrates policies to keep our roads, transit, airways, and railways running smoothly.

12. Department of Energy: Created by President Jimmy Carter

The Department of Energy tackles critical issues surrounding energy production, waste management, and nuclear security. It oversees the nation’s energy supply while addressing climate change challenges through groundbreaking research across its 17 National Laboratories.

13. Department of Education: Created by President Andrew Johnson in 1867 

Led by the Secretary of Education, this department is tasked with various educational responsibilities, such as managing financial loans and grants while gathering critical data on schools to shape future policies.

14. Department of Veterans Affairs: Created By President Ronald Reagan

The Veterans Affairs Department focuses on delivering healthcare and benefits to U.S. veterans. It addresses pressing challenges like veteran homelessness and research effective policies to support those who have bravely served their country.

15. Department of Homeland Security:  Created by President George W Bush

Established by President George W. Bush in response to the September 11 attacks, the DHS stands as the third-largest Cabinet office. Its mission encompasses public security matters, including combating terrorism, preventing disasters, enhancing cybersecurity, securing borders, and overseeing immigration issues.

Other areas that are considered at the Cabinet-level include the White House Chief of Staff, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Office of Management and Budget, the United States Trade Representative, the United States Mission to the United Nations, the Council of Economic Advisers, and the Small Business Administration. While these sections are not technically their own departments, the head administrators receive Cabinet-rank status.

Elizabeth Kilbride is a Writer and Editor with forty years of experience in writing with 12 of those years in the online content sphere. Author of 5 books and a Graduate with an Associate of Arts from Phoenix University in Business Management, then a degree. Mass Communication and Cyber Analysis from Phoenix University, then on to Walden University for her master’s in criminology with emphasis on Cybercrime and Identity Theft and is currently studying for her Ph.D. degree in Criminology. Her work portfolio includes coverage of politics, current affairs, elections, history, and true crime. Elizabeth is also a gourmet cook, life coach, and avid artist in her spare time, proficient in watercolor, acrylic, oil, pen and ink, Gouche, and pastels. As a political operative having worked on over 300 campaigns during her career, Elizabeth has turned many life events into books and movie scripts while using history to weave interesting storylines. She also runs 6 blogs that range from art to life coaching, to food, to writing, and opinion or history pieces each week. 

 

 

Why does the President need an Advisory board called the Cabinet?

 

The United States Cabinet serves as the main advisory group to the president. Meetings typically occur in a room next to the Oval Office, with the president presiding—though not officially a member.

Comprising 26 individuals, including the vice president, 15 department heads, and 10 Cabinet-level officials (most requiring Senate confirmation), each member's seating reflects their department's establishment date.

Cabinet members serve at the discretion of the president and can be dismissed without Senate approval. While they may wield certain powers over their departments independently, doing so against presidential wishes is rare due to potential job loss.

Notably, while implied by Article II of the Constitution for providing counsel, there’s no explicit mention of a Cabinet. The Twenty-fifth Amendment further allows for joint declarations on presidential incapacity involving executive department heads.

Elizabeth Kilbride is a Writer and Editor with forty years of experience in writing with 12 of those years in the online content sphere. Author of 5 books and a Graduate with an Associate of Arts from Phoenix University in Business Management, then a degree. Mass Communication and Cyber Analysis from Phoenix University, then on to Walden University for her master’s in criminology with emphasis on Cybercrime and Identity Theft and is currently studying for her Ph.D. degree in Criminology. Her work portfolio includes coverage of politics, current affairs, elections, history, and true crime. Elizabeth is also a gourmet cook, life coach, and avid artist in her spare time, proficient in watercolor, acrylic, oil, pen and ink, Gouche, and pastels. As a political operative having worked on over 300 campaigns during her career, Elizabeth has turned many life events into books and movie scripts while using history to weave interesting storylines. She also runs 6 blogs that range from art to life coaching, to food, to writing, and opinion or history pieces each week. 

 

 

Why were the Intolerable Acts created?

Why were the Intolerable Acts created?

The Intolerable Acts, enacted by the British Parliament in 1774, comprised four punitive measures aimed at quelling colonial defiance and maintaining British authority over America. These actions stemmed from escalating tensions following events like the Boston Tea Party of 1773.

Boston was particularly targeted as a symbol of resistance. The Boston Port Bill closed the harbor until restitution for destroyed tea was made, crippling local commerce.

The Massachusetts Government Act dismantled its 1691 charter, transforming it into a crown colony with increased military oversight under General Thomas Gage.

Additionally, the Administration of Justice Act allowed British officials accused of serious crimes to be tried elsewhere, undermining colonists' trust in justice.

Finally, the new Quartering Act required colonies to house British troops in private homes or buildings—a measure reminiscent of earlier grievances but expanded across all British territories. This led to significant unrest and fueled revolutionary sentiment throughout New England.

 The Quebec Act, debated since 1773, stripped the territory and fur trade between the Ohio and Mississippi rivers from colonial control, transferring it to Quebec. By instituting French civil law and endorsing Roman Catholicism in this prized region, Britain showed leniency toward Quebec’s inhabitants but alarmed the predominantly Protestant colonies to its south with fears of popery. In a bid to reassert dominance over the American colonies, the Intolerable Acts were enacted—but after years of hesitation, Britain's response came too late. Instead of intimidating Massachusetts into isolation from its counterparts, these harsh measures served as a rallying cry for convening the First Continental Congress later in 1774.

Elizabeth Kilbride is a Writer and Editor with forty years of experience in writing with 12 of those years in the online content sphere. Author of 5 books and a Graduate with an Associate of Arts from Phoenix University in Business Management, then a degree. Mass Communication and Cyber Analysis from Phoenix University, then on to Walden University for her master’s in criminology with emphasis on Cybercrime and Identity Theft and is currently studying for her Ph.D. degree in Criminology. Her work portfolio includes coverage of politics, current affairs, elections, history, and true crime. Elizabeth is also a gourmet cook, life coach, and avid artist in her spare time, proficient in watercolor, acrylic, oil, pen and ink, Gouche, and pastels. As a political operative having worked on over 300 campaigns during her career, Elizabeth has turned many life events into books and movie scripts while using history to weave interesting storylines. She also runs 6 blogs that range from art to life coaching, to food, to writing, and opinion or history pieces each week. 

 

 

Admin and Justice Act

 

Administration of Justice Act

The Intolerable Acts

May 20, 1774

**An Act for Fair Justice in Massachusetts Bay**

In the province of Massachusetts Bay, there has been a troubling attempt to reject the authority of Great Britain's Parliament. Open resistance against certain parliamentary acts has occurred without consequence.

Given this chaotic situation, it’s crucial that those enforcing the law and maintaining order are not deterred from their duties. They must not fear being questioned or tried by parties who disregard lawful authority.

To alleviate such concerns, if any legal action arises against someone accused of murder or other serious crimes conducted while fulfilling official duties—be it as a magistrate or revenue officer—the governor may determine whether an impartial trial can occur locally. If not feasible, he can transfer the case to another colony or even back to Great Britain for proper adjudication. This measure aims to uphold justice and ensure fair treatment for all involved.

To ensure justice is upheld and not hindered by a lack of evidence during any inquisition, indictment, or appeal, it is hereby established that the governor has the authority and responsibility to secure recognizances for witnesses.

These witnesses may be requested by either the prosecutor or the defendant to attend their trial and provide testimony at the designated time and location. The governor will determine a fair amount to cover expenses for each witness.

Additionally, individuals brought before justices facing serious charges while performing their duties shall have the right to bail.

Moreover, this legislation shall remain effective for a period of three years.

Elizabeth Kilbride is a Writer and Editor with forty years of experience in writing with 12 of those years in the online content sphere. Author of 5 books and a Graduate with an Associate of Arts from Phoenix University in Business Management, then a degree. Mass Communication and Cyber Analysis from Phoenix University, then on to Walden University for her master’s in criminology with emphasis on Cybercrime and Identity Theft and is currently studying for her Ph.D. degree in Criminology. Her work portfolio includes coverage of politics, current affairs, elections, history, and true crime. Elizabeth is also a gourmet cook, life coach, and avid artist in her spare time, proficient in watercolor, acrylic, oil, pen and ink, Gouche, and pastels. As a political operative having worked on over 300 campaigns during her career, Elizabeth has turned many life events into books and movie scripts while using history to weave interesting storylines. She also runs 6 blogs that range from art to life coaching, to food, to writing, and opinion or history pieces each week. 

Quebec Act

 

Quebec Act

June 22, 1774

**AN ACT to Establish Effective Governance for the Province of Quebec, North America.**

We humbly request Your Majesty's approval for enactment:

The boundaries shall be defined, extending those established by the Proclamation of 1763 westward to the Mississippi and northward toward Hudson's Bay territory, including islands at the mouth of the St. Lawrence.

However, it has come to light that the provisions set forth in this proclamation regarding civil governance and authorities assigned to officials no longer suit Quebec’s realities. At conquest, its population exceeded sixty-five thousand individuals who practiced Roman Catholicism.

Therefore, it is affirmed that His Majesty's subjects practicing Roman Catholicism in Quebec are entitled to freely exercise their faith under royal supremacy as declared during Queen Elizabeth I’s reign. Furthermore, clergy may retain their traditional rights concerning adherents of their religion.

His Majesty, along with His Heirs and Successors, retains the right to allocate provisions from customary dues for the promotion of Protestantism and support of a Protestant Clergy in the Province as deemed necessary. Furthermore, all Canadian subjects residing in Quebec—except for religious orders—shall enjoy their property and civil rights fully intact. Laws of Canada will govern any disputes regarding these matters. The established Criminal Law of England has proven beneficial over nine years; thus it shall remain in effect within Quebec concerning offenses, prosecutions, trials, and punishments. Recognizing that future regulations may be essential for Quebec’s governance but cannot presently be foreseen or organized without delay, His Majesty is empowered to appoint a Council comprising 17 to 23 residents. This council can enact ordinances for the province's welfare with consent from either His Majesty's Governor or acting Lieutenant Governor.

Elizabeth Kilbride is a Writer and Editor with forty years of experience in writing with 12 of those years in the online content sphere. Author of 5 books and a Graduate with an Associate of Arts from Phoenix University in Business Management, then a degree. Mass Communication and Cyber Analysis from Phoenix University, then on to Walden University for her master’s in criminology with emphasis on Cybercrime and Identity Theft and is currently studying for her Ph.D. degree in Criminology. Her work portfolio includes coverage of politics, current affairs, elections, history, and true crime. Elizabeth is also a gourmet cook, life coach, and avid artist in her spare time, proficient in watercolor, acrylic, oil, pen and ink, Gouche, and pastels. As a political operative having worked on over 300 campaigns during her career, Elizabeth has turned many life events into books and movie scripts while using history to weave interesting storylines. She also runs 6 blogs that range from art to life coaching, to food, to writing, and opinion or history pieces each week.