Civics Engagement March 11, 2010

PROMPT: What are the different duties of the Presidential cabinet (specifically, the Secretary of State, the Secretary of the Treasury, the Secretary of Defense and the Attorney General)? How are these people appointed, and what influence does the voting public have over them?

The most common function held by SECRETARIES OF STATE is to serve as the state's chief elections official. Appointed by the president.

The SECRETARY OF THE TREASURY is the main economic advisor to the President & plays a crucial role in policy-making by bringing an economic & government financial policy perspective to issues facing the government. They're also responsible for formulating and recommending domestic and international financial, economic, and tax policies. They manage the public debt as well. Appointed by the president.

THE SECRETARY OF DEFENSE is the head of the U.S. Department of Defense, concerned with the armed services and military matters. Appointed by the president with approval of the Senate.