Branches of Government

Federalism

System of government in which power is divided and shared between National(Federal) and State governments

Pardon

A declaration of forgiveness and freedom from punishment

Popular Sovereignty

A government in which the people rule

Unconstitutional

A law that is not agreeable with the constitution and is no longer valid

Bicameral

A legislature consisting of two parts, or houses

Veto

A vote that blocks a decision

Bill

A written proposal for a law

Cabinet

Advisors to the President

Jurisdiction

An area of authority or control; the right to administer justice.

Legislative Branch

Article I of the Constitution; makes laws, has the power to declare war, override a veto, approves federal appointees, create a federal budget; bicameral, senate and house of representatives, 535 total members

Executive Branch

Article II of the Constitution; enforces laws, power to veto, appoint federal judges, lead armed forces, represents our nation; must be 35 yrs old, a U.S. citizen, and a resident of the U.S. for 14 years.

Judicial Branch

Article III of the Constitution; a system of courts that decide arguments about the meaning of laws, how they are applied, and whether they violate the Constitution.

Republicanism

Belief that people exercise power by voting for representatives

Congress

Collective group of legislative Branch; has power to Collect taxes, Borrow Money, Regulate Trade, Raise an Army, Impeach the president, Propose amendments

Bill of Rights

First 10 amendments to the U.S. Constitution that explain the powers of the citizens. An example of Individual Rights.

President

Head of the executive Branch. Must be at least 35 years old and a U.S. citizen.

Senate

House of congress that each state is guaranteed 2 representatives; must be 30 yrs old, resident for 9 yrs; Leader is Vice President

House of Representatives

House of congress that has representation based on population; must be 25 yrs old, resident for 7 yrs; currently 435 members (fixed)

Checks and Balances

Idea that allows different branches of government to limit or check the power of other branches of government

Supreme Court

Main group within the judicial Branch. Consists of 9 justices.

Individual Rights

Personal liberties or privileges

Implied Powers

Powers not specifically mentioned in the constitution

Limited Government

The Constitution outlines our plan of government and restricts its powers. Everyone must obey the law.

Separation of Powers

consisting of 3 independent and coequal branches of government (Executive, Legislative, and Judicial)

Expressed Powers

powers directly stated in the constitution