Final answer:
The president can quickly direct the agencies of the executive branch to respond to economic, social, or political needs by signing executive orders. Therefore, the correct option is b. signing executive orders.
Step-by-step explanation:
The president can quickly direct the agencies of the executive branch to respond to economic, social, or political needs by signing executive orders. Executive orders are rules that bypass Congress but still have the force of law if the courts do not overturn them. They allow the president to take swift action and implement policies without going through the lengthy process of passing legislation.