The Cabinet is an advisory body made up of the heads of the 15 executive departments. Cabinet members are appointed by the President and confirmed by the Senate. They are often the President’s closest advisors.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture creates policies for farming, agriculture, and food. It oversees farmers and ranchers, agricultural trade and production, food safety, natural resources, and ending hunger in America and abroad.

The Department of Commerce creates the conditions for economic growth and opportunity.

The Department of Defense supports the military forces that protect the nation’s security, provides humanitarian aid, and performs peacekeeping and disaster relief services.

The Department of Education promotes student learning and preparation for college, careers, and citizenship. The Department administers federal financial aid for higher education. It oversees educational programs and civil rights laws related to learning opportunities.

The Department of Energy advances the national, economic, and energy security of the United States. It also works to ensure nuclear security.

The Department of Health and Human Services protects the health of all Americans and provides essential human services. It administers Medicare and Medicaid, the National Institutes of Health, the Food and Drug Administration, and the Centers for Disease Control.

The Department of Homeland Security protects Americans from foreign and domestic threats. It prevents terrorist attacks, protects critical infrastructure and civilian computer networks, facilitates trade and travel, responds to natural disasters, protects borders, and regulates immigration.

The Department of Housing and Urban Development addresses housing needs, improves and develops the nation’s communities, and enforces housing laws.

The Department of the Interior manages America’s natural resources, protects fish and wildlife, and honors the government responsibilities to native populations. DOI manages about one-fifth of the land in the United States.

The Department of Justice enforces the law and ensures fair and impartial administration of justice for all Americans. The DOJ includes the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, U.S. Marshals, and the Federal Bureau of Prisons. The Attorney General is the head of the DOJ.

The Department of Labor oversees job training, safe working conditions, minimum hourly wage, employment discrimination, and unemployment insurance.

The Department of State develops and implements foreign policy, including representation abroad, foreign assistance, countering international crime, and services to U.S. citizens and foreign nationals seeking entry to the U.S.

The Department of Transportation develops and maintains a transportation system that meets national interests and enhances quality of life.

The Department of the Treasury advances U.S. and global economic growth to raise American standards of living, promote racial justice, combat climate change, and foster financial stability. The Treasury Department also enhances national security by safeguarding the financial systems by identifying and targeting financial support networks that threaten national security.

The Department of Veterans Affairs administers benefit programs for veterans, their families, and their survivors.

Source: The Cabinet
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