Identify which of the following is a key independent agency

A. the department of the interior
B. centers for diseases control
C. the federal reserve
D. the internal revenue service

C. the federal reserve

To identify which of the following is a key independent agency, let's break down each option:

A. The Department of the Interior is not an independent agency. It is a cabinet-level department within the executive branch of the U.S. federal government.

B. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is not an independent agency. It is an agency of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).

C. The Federal Reserve is indeed a key independent agency. It is the central banking system of the United States responsible for conducting monetary policy, supervising and regulating banks, and maintaining the stability of the financial system.

D. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) is not an independent agency. It is a bureau of the Department of the Treasury responsible for collecting taxes and enforcing tax laws.

Based on this information, the correct answer is C. The Federal Reserve is a key independent agency.

To identify which of the following is a key independent agency, let's first understand what an independent agency is.

An independent agency is a federal agency that exists outside of the executive departments, which are headed by Cabinet members. Independent agencies have specific missions and are created by Congress to carry out certain functions, such as regulation or oversight. They operate independently from direct control by the President.

Now, let's analyze the options provided:

A. The Department of the Interior: The Department of the Interior is not an independent agency. It is a cabinet department responsible for managing and conserving the country's natural resources and cultural heritage.

B. Centers for Disease Control (CDC): The CDC is not an independent agency. It is part of the Department of Health and Human Services and works to protect public health and safety.

C. The Federal Reserve: The Federal Reserve is indeed a key independent agency. It is responsible for setting monetary policy, supervising and regulating banks, and maintaining the stability of the financial system.

D. Internal Revenue Service (IRS): The IRS is not an independent agency. It is a bureau of the Department of the Treasury and is responsible for collecting taxes and enforcing tax laws.

Therefore, the correct answer is C. The Federal Reserve is a key independent agency.