What is one way that congress used normal legislation to affect the executive branch of government?

One way that Congress uses normal legislation to affect the executive branch of government is through the power of the purse. Congress has the constitutional authority to control government spending, and it exercises this authority through the appropriations process. By passing appropriation bills, which specify the amount of money allocated to different government agencies and programs, Congress can influence and shape the priorities and actions of the executive branch.

Here's how the power of the purse works:

1. Appropriations Bills:

• Congress passes appropriations bills to fund various government agencies, departments, and programs. These bills outline the budget for each area of government activity.

2. Conditional Funding:

• Congress can attach conditions or restrictions to the funding it provides. For example, it may specify that funds can only be used for certain purposes, programs, or projects. By doing so, Congress effectively guides the executive branch's priorities and actions.

3. Oversight and Accountability:

• Through the appropriations process, Congress maintains a significant level of oversight and control over how executive branch agencies spend money. Agencies must report back to Congress on their spending and demonstrate compliance with the conditions set forth in the appropriations bills.

4. Influence on Policy and Programs:

• Congress can use appropriations to influence policy decisions and the implementation of programs. By allocating funds to particular initiatives or withholding funds from others, Congress shapes the direction of executive branch activities.

5. Power to Defund or Reduce Funding:

• If Congress disagrees with a particular policy or action taken by the executive branch, it has the power to defund or reduce funding for related programs. This serves as a tool for Congress to express disapproval or to compel changes in executive behavior.

The power of the purse is a crucial mechanism that allows Congress to exercise a significant degree of influence over the executive branch without having to resort to constitutional amendments or specific legislative actions for every executive decision. It provides a more flexible and nuanced way for Congress to guide and control the implementation of policies and programs by the executive branch.