Which of the following best describes an independent regulatory agency?

An independent regulatory agency is best described as one that operates independently from presidential authority. This means that these agencies are structured to function without direct control from the executive branch, allowing them to make decisions based on expertise and regulatory needs rather than political pressure. This independence is crucial for the agency's ability to enforce regulations impartially and uphold the rule of law, free from potential influence that could come from the current presidential administration.

Such agencies are designed to ensure that regulatory responsibilities are fulfilled in a fair and unbiased manner, often overseeing complex sectors such as finance, communications, and environment. They have a degree of autonomy, enabling them to create and implement rules and regulations that align more closely with their technical mission rather than being swayed by short-term political considerations.

The other options propose a level of control or oversight that does not accurately reflect the nature of independent regulatory agencies. Therefore, the defining characteristic of independence from presidential authority is what makes this choice the most accurate representation of such agencies.