Final answer:
The statement is true; Congress controls bureaucracies by approving or disapproving of agency heads nominated by the president, primarily through the Senate's confirmation hearings, as part of its oversight responsibilities.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that one way Congress can control bureaucracies is by approving or disapproving of agency heads nominated by the president is true. Congress, specifically the Senate, has the authority to confirm or deny presidential appointments for heads of federal agencies.
Congressional oversight is a significant tool for managing federal bureaucracies. This involves not just confirming agency heads, but also involves processes like holding hearings, reviewing annual agency reports, and determining budget allowances. The Senate, as part of the legislative branch, has the responsibility to ensure that executive positions are filled with qualified individuals, through a process known as confirmation hearings. These hearings allow senators to ask nominees questions and evaluate their suitability for office, thereby influencing the administration of federal agencies and their policies.
Through this system of checks and balances, Congress ensures federal bureaucracies align with legislative intentions and serve the public interest. While the approval of bureaucrats tends to be routine, there are instances when nominations become contentious, reflecting the political dynamics of the nominating process.