The executive branch
independent agency
An agency structured to operate at arm's length from the President, often run by a bipartisan commission whose members serve fixed terms.
In full
Congress sometimes insulates an agency from day-to-day presidential control: multi-member commissions (FCC, FEC, SEC) with staggered fixed terms, partisan balance requirements, and, historically, leaders removable only for cause. How far that insulation can constitutionally go, especially removal protection, is an active battleground in the courts.
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A plain-language explanation for civic education, not legal advice. When in doubt, the official source named above controls.