What do Executive Departments do?

Executive Departments play a crucial role in the U.S. government by advising the President on matters pertaining to their specific areas of expertise. Each department is responsible for a particular sector of public policy, government function, or service delivery, such as education, health, or defense. This advice helps the President formulate and implement policies that are informed by the extensive knowledge and specialized skills of department officials.

In contrast to legislative functions performed by Congress, Executive Departments do not make laws; they implement and enforce laws enacted by Congress. While they may have oversight or administrative roles in managing local governments, that is not their primary function. Additionally, directing military operations typically falls under the purview of the Department of Defense and the President, rather than being a general function of all Executive Departments. Thus, the role of advising the President is a fundamental and defining characteristic of what Executive Departments do.