AP US Government and Politics Elite

The New Deal

(1930's) Designed by FDR to revive the American economy because of the Great Depression. Targeted reform of business practices. Example of presidential economic policy. Created by FDR to try to get America out of the Great Depression. Marks the change to cooperative federalism. Expanded the bureaucracy by creating social programs that needed agencies to run them.

Fifth Party System

(1932-...) Democrats and Republicans. New relations. Strong central government.

Taft-Hartley Act

(1947) Regulated campaign financing in an effort to prevent coruption.

National Defense Education Act

(1950s) Gave money to develop better math, science and language programs. Also created NASA.

Pell Grants

(1960s) Gave money for people to apply for financial aid for education.

Federal Election Campaign Act

(1974) Established disclosure requirements. Forced candidates to say where the money is coming from and had limits on how much was allowed.

Ethics in Government Act

(1978) Barred members of the executive branch (bureaucracy) from lobbying for two years after leaving office. Enacted in the wake of Watergate.

Lobbying Disclosure Act

(1995) Strictly defined a lobbyist. Said lobbyists must register with the clerk of the House and the secretary of the Senate, report their clients and declare their funding. Made it easier to monitor lobbying activities.

McCain-Feingold Bipartisan Campaign Reform Act

(2002) Regulates political ad funding, limits what types of ads can be played before an election. Regulates campaign contributions from certain sources.

Honest Leadership in Government Act

(2007) Banned gifts to members of congress. Brought tougher disclosure requirements, stricter eligibility rules for former congressmen-turned-lobbyists. Critics believe that it doesn't need to go far enough as some shady practices still exist.

Interest Groups and Progressive Era

(Late 1800-1920) Saw a return to grassroots activism. Many groups emerged to target issues in American society and advocated for reform. Issues of the time were education, corporate America, workplace conditions, consumer protections, social problems, civil rights, government corruption, women's rights, temperance.

Interest Groups and Gilded Age America

(Post Civil War) Rise of business interest groups during the industrial revolution. Formally began to lobby government for legislation in their factor. Organized labor gained legal ground through legislation. American Federation of Labor brought skilled workers from various trades together nationally.

The Jacksonian Democracy

(1820-1840) Universal manhood suffrage, voting rights for all white males. States lifted the property restrictions.

Interest Groups and Antebellum America

(1820-1850) Interest groups were more like national groups and most were single issue in nature. Very rooted in christian revivalism that was sweeping the nation. Concerned with humanitarian issues. Four major interest groups were abolition, temperance, education, and women's rights.

Second Party System

(1840-1856) Democratic-Republicans and Whigs. Andrew Jackson.

Third Party System

(1860-1896) Death of the Whigs. Lincoln. Democrats and Republicans, slavery split it up. Change due to civil rights.

Jim Crow Era

(1890-1960) Plessy vs Ferguson. Methods of blocking black voter participation including Grandfather clause, poll tax, and literacy test. Eliminated in the 24th Amendment and the 1965 Voting Rights Act. Elections were subject to federal intervention to prevent discrimination.

Fourth Party System

(1896-1932) Republicans and progressives. Roosevelt, Taft, Harding, Coolidge, Hoover. Change due to economy.

Tillman Act

(1907) Forbid corporations from donating to candidates in federal office.

First Party System

(1796-1816) Federalists, republicans and democrats. Hamilton vs Jefferson.

Max Weber's ideal bureaucracy

-Chain of command -Division of labor -Clear lines of authority -Goal orientation -Impersonality (not strong favorites) -Productivity In the real world it doesn't always work like this.

Disadvantages of federalism

-Leaves unequal protection to certain groups -Less efficient -Overlap is expensive -Elites can influence regions in ways that wouldn't normally be there

House of Representatives requirements and terms

-Must be 25 or older -Citizen -Live in the US for seven years -Live in the district you are going to represent -Two year terms -Unlimited number of terms

Senate requirements and terms

-Must be 30 or older -Citizen -Live in the US for nine years -Live in the state you are going to represent -Six years terms -Unlimited number of terms

Presidential requirements

-Must be at least 35 -Natural born US citizen either in the US or US territory -Must have lived in the US for 14 consecutive years

Advantages of federalism

-Provides loose partnership of governments -Increases political activity -States and Federal government can experiment with policy -Brings government closer to the people -Checks and balances

13th Amendment

1865 Abolished slavery.

Tenure of Office Act

1866. Enacted by congress. Forbade president from removing civil officers without senatorial consent. Was to prevent Johnson from removing a radical republican from his cabinet. (?)

15th Amendment

1870 Granted African-American men the right to vote.

Chinese Exclusion Act

1882. Created an absolute 10-year moratorium on Chinese labor immigration into the US.

Pendleton act

1883. Established the practice of hiring federal employment on the basis of competence exams. Created the Civil Service merit based system regulated by the Civil Service Commission.

Dawes Act

1887. Authorized the President of the United States to survey American Indian tribal land and divide it into allotments for individual Indians.

Suffrage Movement

1890-1920. Economic and political reform movement aimed at extending the right to vote to women.

Lawrence vs. Texas

2003. Supreme Court struck down sodomy laws in Texas and 13 other states, making same-sex sexual activity legal in every U.S. state and territory.

Proposition 8

2008. California ballot proposition stating "only marriage between a man and a woman is valid or recognized in California."

Obergefell vs. Hodges

2015. Supreme Court decision that the fundamental right to marry is guaranteed to same-sex couples by the Constitution.

Double jeopardy

A procedural defense that forbids an accused person from being tried again on the same (or similar) charges and on the same facts, following a valid acquittal or conviction.

Class Action Lawsuit

A single suit where plaintiffs in the cases are similar. Ex/ Brown vs. Board of Ed.

Franking privilege

Access to free mailings. Don't need to pay for postage.

Martin Luther King Jr.

Activist and leader in the African-American Civil Rights Movement. Assassinated in 1968.

Susan B. Anthony

Activist and leader in the woman's suffrage movement.

Race/Ethnicity Political Socialization

African Americans and Hispanics tend to vote democrat due to immigration issues. Cubans vote republican.

Conflict

Agencies that work against each other.

Unchecked growth

Agencies unnecessarily grow which escalates the cost.

National economic council

Agency in the executive office of the president that coordinates policy-making for domestic and international economic issues, coordinates economic policy advice for the President, ensures that policy decisions and programs are consistent with the President's economic goals, and monitor implementation of the President's economic policy agenda. (?)

Direct Democracy

All citizens debate and vote on laws. Requires a high level of participation and is time consuming. Example/ Ancient Greeks in Athens.

Declaration of Independence

All men are created equal and there are certain unalienable rights that governments should never violate. These rights include the right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. When a government fails to protect those rights, it is not only the right, but also the duty of the people to overthrow that government.

PACs, Interest Groups, and Parties

All represent political points of view of various people who want to influence policy making.

Apportionment

Allotting congressional seats based on Census results. The number of seats in the House is fixed at 435. If a state looses a seat, another state gets it.

Right-of-Reply Rule

Allows a person who is attacked on a broadcast the right to reply over the same station.

Moter Voter Law

Allows people to register to vote when they renew their license/go to the DMV.

Eminent domain

Allows the government to take private property for public use; this is housed in the 5th amendment

Executive privilege

Allows the president to withhold certain information regarding national security or confidential conversations from Congress and the Judiciary. Not absolute. Checked by the Supreme Court. Example/ Nixon tried to do it for the Watergate Scandal.

Social contract

An agreement where the people give up rights to get others protected. If the government doesn't follow through the people have the right to change it.

Single Member District

An area is divided into a number of geographically defined voting districts, each represented by a single elected official. Voters can only vote for their district's representative, with the highest vote-getter winning election, even if he or she has received less than half of the vote. (?)

Foreign Policy

An area of policy making that encompasses how one country builds relationships with other countries in order to safeguard its national interests.

Defense Policy

An area of policy making that focuses on the strategies that a country uses to protect itself from enemies.

Lobbying

An attempt to influence government policies. They target law makers and bureaucratic agents. Lobbyists can do any of the following...contact government officials by phone/letter...meeting/socializing at conventions...taking officials to lunch/dinner...testifying at committee hearings.

Lobbyists

An interest group member who seeks to influence legislation. Reputation is key, credibility and access are crucial to success.

Anti-Federalists

Didn't feel the Constitution went far enough to protect individual liberties. Wanted a Bill of Rights that would list these liberties. Thomas Jefferson and George Mason.

New Jersey plan

Didn't need a strong central government. Wanted a unicameral legislative branch where each state would get one vote. Gave Congress more power to tax. Liked by smaller states. Didn't want the views of larger states to overpower smaller states in government.

Conflictual Political Culture

Different groups or subcultures clash with opposing beliefs and values.

Consensual Political Culture

Different groups or subcultures experience less conflict with opposing beliefs and values (America's).

Geographical Region Political Opinion

Different issues affect other people based on religion.

Mediocre president

Different view of what the presidency is. They see it as a performance for the public in which they just play the role. See the office as a fitting end to cap a career.

Republic

Government in which citizens elect representatives to debate, vote on laws, and set policies for them. Also known as a Indirect democracy or Representative Democracy. Example/ The USA.

Limited government

Government is not all powerful, it does not limit what citizens can do.

Marital Status Political Socialization

People who are married tend to be republican. Single people tend to be democrats. Divorced people are more liberal. Widowed are more democrat.

Electoral college

People would be chosen in the state legislature to be electors that would formally cast their ballot for presidency. The number of electors would be equal to the number of representatives in Congress. There is a total of 538 electors (equal to number of senators and representatives plus 3 electors from the District of Columbia. Need a total of 270 electoral votes to win.

Privileges and Immunities Clause

Prohibits a state from discriminating against citizens of another state. Acts by one state must be recognized by another.

Free exercise clause

Prohibits the government from interfering with a citizen's right to practice their religion. Example/ Reynolds vs. US and Cantwell vs CT.

1st way to propose a Constitutional amendment

Proposal by two-thirds vote of both houses of Congress.

2nd way to propose a Constitutional amendment

Proposal by two-thirds vote of national convention called by Congress on request of two-thirds of state legislatures.

Equal Rights Amendment

Proposed amendment written by Alice Paul and Crystal Eastman. Designed to guarantee equal rights for women. First proposed in 1923. Has never been ratified.

Bill

Proposed laws. *Look at steps on how a bill becomes a law in notes*

American Foreign Policy Goals

Protecting national security, providing international support, insuring a balance of power, cooperation with nations, promoting human rights and democratic ideals, fostering cooperative foreign trade.

11th Amendment

Protects the state governments. Sovereign immunity. The Judicial power of the United States shall not be construed to extend to any suit in law or equity, commenced or prosecuted against one of the United States by Citizens of another State, or by Citizens or Subjects of any Foreign State.

Electioneering Activities

Providing money for political campaigns. Done through PACs, 527s, and 501(c)s. Can partake in candidate recruitment, endorsements, and getting out the vote.

USSC is sometimes thought to be above...

Public opinion because they are appointed instead of ellected. Public opinion can sway decisions. USSC is the target of lobbying groups. Activist periods of the court have corresponded to periods of social and economic crisis/change. Example/ New deal, Dred Scott case (1857).

Transaction Theory

Public policies are a result of narrowly defined exchanges among political actors. People don't form groups only elitists and therefore the elites run the country. Ex/ The Patriots put money into the Revolutionary War.

Front Loading

Pushing the date of the state primaries up to influence the outcome of the season.

1996 Welfare Reform Act

Put in restrictions on eligibility and lengths one could be on the program. Designed to reduce poverty.

Administrative adjucation

Quasi judicial process, not a court proceeding. Agency that mediates a dispute between two parties. Example/ National labor relations board.

Entertainment

Radio and television emphasize politics. Politics and politicians are the subject of dramas, movies, TV shows, and comedies. Plays an important role in political socialization, shaping opinions of political institutions and practices at the same time.

Powers of the legislative branch

Raise and levee taxes, pass legislation, declare war, impeach officials, coin money and raise an army. 2/3rds majority is the number of congressional agreement needed to impeach, pass laws, and veto president's bills. Power of the purse.

Powers of the Senate

Ratifies all treaties entered by the President. They deny and confirm presidential appointments. Holds the impeachment trial.

Critical Election of 1932

Realignment over Great Depression. Shift where the government provides services the party used to provide.

Critical Election of 1912

Realignment over reform. Showed how third parties can affect the outcomes of elections by stealing votes.

Equal Time Rule

Requires a station selling time to one candidate for office to make the same amount of time available to the other.

1974 Congressional Budget Act

Reset the fiscal year of Congress from October 1st to September 30th. Nonpartisan agency designed to facilitate the budget process for congress.

Young People Political Opinion

Resist taxes to fund medicare.

Press Secretary

Responsible for press and public relations who holds press conferences. The liaison to the media, they are "master spinners" to show their story in a good light. Individual who interacts and communicates with journalists on a daily basis.

Congressional District Committee

Responsible for the House and Senate candidates.

Press Briefing

Restricted live engagement between the press secretary and the press.

Analyzing data from polls

Reveals what the data is being used for and where the public is on certain issues and its implications. Reporting data.

Television

Revolutionized how people consumed information. Introduced after WWII and by 1959 TV's were in 90% of American homes. It forced regional and international issues to be national problems. Helpful in the Civil Rights Movement and Vietnam, the first televised war.

Fundamental freedoms

Rights of the court to be essential to order, liberty, and justice and therefore entitled to highest standard of review & strict scrutiny. (?)

Problems With Voter Turnout-Weekend Influence of Parties

Rise of centered politics have caused this.

Critical Election of 1968

Rise of the conservative wave.

Judicial checks on the bureaucracy

Rules on the constitutionality of all challenged rules and regulations. Can require policy changes.

Regulations

Rules that govern the operation of all government programs that have the force of law.

Equality

Same as liberty; we believe that not all are equal but we should all be equal and have equal opportunity under law.

Stratified Sample

Sample is taken from subgroups. Ex/ Sample chosen by gender or ethnicity.

1970's

Saw a growing mistrust in the government due to things like Vietnam and Watergate. Americans seemed to have come to the conclusion that government is too big and pervasive to be sensitive to individual citizens.

Supporters of Ballot Measures

Say that heightened public interest in elections can increase voter participation and that it creates positive change in policy on the state and national level.

Critics of Ballot Measures

Say they are unduly influence and funded by interest groups. And that issues are too complex for the general public to understand.

Women and Voter Turnout

Since 1992 more women vote than men.

Interest Group Success-Intensity

Single issue groups work best to put all their force in one area.

Voter Turnout

Single most important characteristic of a politically active citizen is a high level of education, the higher the education, the more likely to vote.

Select (special) committee

Small few picked to investigate an issue.

Lack of Information

Some respondents don't know the information on which they are being asked about. Answers may be inaccurate when content of the survey is unknown.

Problems With Voter Turnout-Voter Attitudes

Some voters feel alienated, turned off by smear campaigns, others are just apathetic due to lack of issues and are satisfied with the status quo or noncompetitive elections.

The Role of Delegates at Convention

Speak on behalf of the organization. The number of delegates per state is directly linked to state primary results. Each party has a different way to choose. Democrats is proportional, while republicans let the state choose.

Clear and Present Danger

Speech is not protected when the words used are used in such circumstances and are of such a nature as to create a clear and present danger. Can't yell "fire" in a movie theater.

Discretionary Spending

Spending implemented through an appropriations bill. This spending is an optional part of fiscal policy.

Waste

Spending more than necessary.

Deficit Spending

Spending more than you take in.

Minority party leader

Spokesperson for the minority party. Consults with the Speaker and Majority leader and brings that information back to their party. (Can become the Speaker of the House if their party becomes the majority). Currently held by Nancy Poloci.

Polls through History

Started in the turn of the 20th century. Literary Digest-1916. Gallup polls.

Article VI of the Constitution

States debts from the Revolutionary War will be honored and paid.

Commerce clause

States it is the power of the federal government to regulate commerce between the states. Controls roads and trading with states.

Article VII of the Constitution

States nine out of the thirteen states will need to ratify the new Constitution.

Full faith & credit clause

States that all states must abide by the federal law and recognize all of the laws of other states. All judgements, contracts and licenses need to be recognized across the states.

Necessary & proper clause

States that congress can pass all laws necessary and proper to upholding the Constitution. Also known as the Elastic clause.

Pluralist theory

States that diverse interests do not allow for elites to rule. We put people in power to represent our interests.

Elite theory

States that power is bestowed on a small group of wealthy educated elites chosen by citizens. We pick our representatives from a pool of elites.

Supremacy clause

States that the Constitution is the supreme law of the land.

Positive Ads

Stress the qualifications, family and issue positions. Paints candidate in positive light. There is usually no reference to the opposing candidate.

Interest Group Success-Leaders

Strong leaders yield effective groups.

Why Incumbents Loose Coattails

Successful presidential candidates usually carry congressional candidates of the same party into office with them. This affect as lessened over time.

Elizabeth Cady Stanton

Suffragist, social activist, abolitionist, and leader in the women's rights movement.

Communications Director

Supervises public relations staff, creates communication strategies and is the spokesperson to the media.

State Central Committee

Supervisor of collecting election returns from locals. They make sure that state laws are followed.

Jewish Political Opinion

Supportive of aid to Israel.

Brown vs. Board of Education

Supreme Court case in which the Court declared state laws establishing separate public schools for black and white students to be unconstitutional.

Korematsu vs. US

Supreme Court decision that the wartime internment of American citizens of Japanese descent was constitutional.

University of California vs. Bakke

Supreme Court ruled that a university's use of racial "quotas" in its admissions process was unconstitutional, but a school's use of "affirmative action" to accept more minority applicants was constitutional in some circumstances.

Gratz vs. Bollinger

Supreme Court ruled the University of Michigan's use of racial preferences in undergraduate admissions violated the Equal Protection Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment and Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.

Grutter vs. Bollinger

Supreme Court upheld the affirmative action admissions policy of the University of Michigan Law School.

Framing

The process by which a news organization defines a political issue and consequently affects opinion about the issue. Journalists are biased predominately to the left.

Jurisprudence

The process of making a judicial decision.

Rule Making

The process that executive and independent agencies use to create, or promulgate, regulations. In general, legislatures first set broad policy mandates by passing statutes, then agencies create more detailed regulations.

Redistricting

The redrawing of Congressional districts in states to reflect apportionment changes. Must be done in an equal, socioeconomic way.

Affirmative Action

The requirement, imposed by law or administrative regulation, that an organization (business firm, government agency, labor union, school, or college) take positive steps to increase the number or proportion of women, African Americans, or other minorities in its membership.

Oversight

The review, monitoring, and supervision of federal agencies, programs, activities, and policy implementation over the Executive Branch, including the numerous U.S. federal agencies.

4th Amendment

The right of the people to be secure in their persons, houses, papers, and effects, against unreasonable searches and seizures, shall not be violated, and no Warrants shall issue, but upon probable cause, supported by Oath or affirmation, and particularly describing the place to be searched, and the persons or things to be seized.

Conservative

The right of the republican side. Hold old moral values and allow the government to interfere in things like abortion but don't want the government to interfere on other parts.

Confidentiality of Sources

The right to keep the source of their information private. Sources can be given if a criminal investigation is at stake.

Incumbency

Those who hold office and have secured seats. Has evolved. Originally congressmen would serve one term only. Now it is a lifetime career.

Lemon test

Three prong test. Used to determine whether a law has the affect of establishing a religion. Lemon vs Kurtzman. To prove a state law constitutional the law must: 1. Have legitimate secular purpose 2. Neither advances or inhibits a religion 3. Doesn't foster government entanglement of religion

Seniority

Time of continuous service on a committee.

Surges in approval ratings occur in...

Times of crisis, economic improvements, positive foreign policy, and elections.

Decreases in approval ratings occur in...

Times of unemployment rises, poor economy, bad responses to foreign policy crisis.

Framers intent for the House of Representatives

To allow direct election of representatives so the people's voice will be heard in government.

Regulatory Policy-Labor

True regulation began in the 1930s. Government promotes: equal employment opportunities, safe and sanitary workplace standards, and fair bargaining practices.

Direct incitement test

Two prong test. States speech is prohibited if... 1. It directly incites or produces imminent lawless action 2. It is likely to incite or produce imminent lawless action

Senate

Two representatives per state, six year terms.

Lifetime tenure

US Supreme Court Justices serve lifetime tenure for good behavior.

Hazelwood vs. Kuhlmeier

USSC decision that the First Amendment did not require schools to affirmatively promote particular types of student speech. The Court held that schools must be able to set high standards for student speech disseminated under their auspices, and that schools retained the right to refuse to sponsor speech that was "inconsistent with 'the shared values of a civilized social order.'" Educators did not offend the First Amendment by exercising editorial control over the content of student speech so long as their actions were "reasonably related to legitimate pedagogical concerns."

Tenure

USSC justices have lifetime tenure for good behavior.

Miranda vs. Arizona (1966)

USSC ruling that detained criminal suspects, prior to police questioning, must be informed of their constitutional right to an attorney and against self-incrimination.

Judicial review

USSC rulings are binding throughout the nation. Establishes new rules going forward. Established by Marbury vs. Madison. The USSC can declare acts of congress unconstitutional. This expanded to include state laws. Gave more power to the federal government.

Polling

What public opinion is measured through.

Divided government

When Congress is in control of one party and the President is of the other. Causes grid-lock where nothing gets done. Causes policy polarization.

Realignment

When a party shifts it beliefs. Occurs after a critical election. The existing party affiliations are subject to upheaval.

Balancing the Ticket

When a political candidate chooses a running mate, usually of the same party, with the goal of bringing more widespread appeal to the campaign.

Recall

When constituents recall their leaders from office seen in the state level with government. When constituents vote to remove someone from public office.

Survey Error

When surveys are inaccurate people are less trusting of them. Caused by limited respondent options, lack of information, dificulty measuring intensity, and lack of interest. Margin of error is 1000=4%. Hard to predict winners in close elections.

Going public

When the President goes directly to the public bypassing government officials to gain support for their policy or agenda. The people will then pressure their senators and congressmen to pass it.

Dual federalism

When the federal and state government act in their own separate spheres. Used in the US until 1932.

Honeymoon phase

When the president receive the highest approval ratings in the first six months of office.

Cooperative federalism

When the roles of federal and state governments are intertwined. Used in the US from 1932 on.

Conference vote

When the supreme court justices rule on a case.

Rule of four

At least four out of the nine justices must agree to hear a case.

Negative Ads

Attack the opponent's character and/or platform.

45+ Year Olds

Have the highest percentages of voter turnouts.

Popular sovereignty

The government must be based on the consent of the governed.

Policy

An intentional action or inaction followed by the government in dealing with some problem or matter or concern.

Political Attitudes

Determine how individuals participate, who they vote for and what political parties they support.

Customs, Duties, and Tariffs

Exports/imports tax.

Closed Primary

You can only vote in the primary of the party you are registered to.

Bureau of Indian Affairs

"BIA". Agency of the federal government of the United States within the U.S. Department of the Interior.

Amicus curiae

"Friend of the court" May file briefs or even appear to argue their interests orally before the court.

La Raza

"The Race". A party organized in the late 1960s as a means of getting Mexican Americans to unite politically and to identify ethnically as one people.

Effect of family on Political Opinion

#1 factor that influences political opinion. Kids are influenced by parents early on.

Open Primary

You can vote in any party primary regardless of party affiliation but you can only vote once.

Great president

Ability to grasp a leadership style. They understand the power they have and use their activities to bolster support.

Interest Groups Today

About 2/3 of Americans belong to interest groups but we distrust their motives because of money.

Alexis de Tocqueville's Four Factors For America's Democratic Sucess

1. Abundant and fertile land 2. Countless opportunities to acquire land and make a living 3. Lack of a federal aristocracy that blocked other ambitions 4. An independent spirit encouraged by frontier living

The President is...

An agenda setter, chief executive, policy maker, head of state, chief diplomat, leader of the party, moral booster.

Number of representatives in the Senate

100 total. Two for each state.

Bacon's Rebellion

1676. Fought against the government when they didn't help him. One of the first examples of citizens having an issue with the government and the government not meeting the needs of the people.

12th Amendment

1801. Created a separate ballot for president and the vice president in the electoral college. Posed the question of should the Electoral College be reformed.

19th Amendment

1920. Granted women the right to vote. The Suffrage movement began before the Civil War but never gained national results. Social attitudes toward women changed during the Progressive Movement of the early 20th Century.

Hatch act

1939. Prohibited civil servants from taking activist roles in partisan campaigns. Prohibited federal employees from making political contributions, working for a particular party, or campaigning for a particular candidate.

Executive Order 9066

1942. Issued during World War II by United States President Franklin D. Roosevelt. Ordered Japanese Americans into internment camps during World War II regardless of citizenship.

22nd Amendment

1951. Limited the president to serving only two terms in office and a total of 10 years.

Equal Pay Act

1963. United States labor law amending the Fair Labor Standards Act, aimed at abolishing wage disparity based on sex.

25th Amendment

1965. Said that when the president can't continue being president, the vice president will take the role.

26th Amendment

1971 lowered the voting age from 21 to 18 caused by increased political activism of young people during the Vietnam, particularly on college campuses during the 1960's.

Americans with Disabilities Act

1990. First comprehensive civil rights law addressing the needs of people with disabilities, prohibiting discrimination in employment, public services, public accommodations, and telecommunications.

Federal employees political activities act

1993. Got rid of the Hatch act. Allowed federal employees to now run for office in nonpartisan elections and to contribute money to campaigns in partisan elections.

"Don't Ask, Don't Tell"

1994-2011. Was the official United States policy on military service by gays, bisexuals, and lesbians, instituted by the Clinton Administration.

Amendments that deal with privacy...

1st, 3rd, 4th, 5th, 9th.

Gender Political Socialization

37% of women are democrats and 25% are republican. Gender Gap. Men and women share different opinions about social welfare and military issues.

Political Ideology

A coherent set of values and beliefs about public policy. Generally thought to fall in two opposite camps, liberal and conservative. Parties link citizens to the government.

Common law

A collection of judge-made laws that developed over time.

Mandate Voting

A command indicated by an electorate's votes, for the elected officials to carry out a party platform or policy agenda.

Tracking Poll

A continuous survey that allows a campaign or news organization to track a candidate daily rise and falls.

Factions

A group/political party.

Precedence

A judicial decision that serves as a rule for setting subsequent cases of similar nature going forward. Example/ Gibbons vs. Ogden, Marbury vs. Madision.

Selective incorporation

A judicial doctrine whereby most but not all of the protections found in the Bill of Rights are made applicable to the states via the Fourteenth Amendment.

Bill of attainder

A law declaring an act illegal without a proper trial.

Ex post facto law

A law that makes an act punishable as a crime even if the action was legal at the time it was committed.

Libertarian

A political ideology based on skepticism or opposition toward almost all government activities. Wants a very small, non controlling government.

Gridlock

A political stalemate when there is difficulty passing laws that satisfy the needs of the people.

Oligarchy

A political system governed by a few people. A form of government in which the right to participate is conditioned on the possession of wealth, social status, military position, or achievement.

Blanket Primary

A primary election in which all candidates for the same elected office, regardless of respective political party, run against each other at once, instead of being segregated by political party. It is also known as a jungle primary, qualifying primary, top-two primary or Louisiana primary.

Senatorial courtesy

A process by which presidents, when selecting district court judges, defer to senators in whose state the vacancy occurs.

Congressional review

A process where Congress can invalidate agency regulations by a joint resolution of legislative disapproval.

Great society

A program aimed to enhance the quality of life for Americans. Picked up where the New Deal left off. Brought about health insurance. Created by LBJ. Expanded the bureaucracy by creating the equal employment opportunity commission, housing and urban development, and transportation.

Legislative Veto

A provision that allows a congressional resolution (passed by a majority of congress, but not signed by the President) to nullify a rule making or other action taken by an executive agency.

Rule-making

A quasi-legislative process that results in regulations that have the characteristics of a legislative act.

Institutional Barrier

A rule or law that prevents eligible adults from voting. Ex/ citizenship requirement, registration requirement, block on convicted felons, election day being a work day.

Sampling Error

A statistical error that occurs when an analyst does not select a sample that represents the entire population of data and the results found in the sample do not represent the results that would be obtained from the entire population.

Merit system

A system of employment based on qualifications, test scores, and ability, rather than party loyalty.

Civil service system

A system of hiring and promotion based on the merit principle and the desire to create a nonpartisan government service. Covers 90% of federal bureaucracy employees. Some need to pass an exam, others have to submit resume. Regulated by the Civil Service Commission.

Democracy

A system where ultimate political authority lies in the hands of the people. Government should be based on the consent of the governed and legitimacy ultimately lies in the hands of the people, that way everyone is protected.

Hold

A tactic in which a senator asks to be informed before a bill or nomination is brought to the floor. Signals to leadership that a member may have objections to the bill (or nomination) and should be consulted before further action is taken.

Political Party

A team of politicians, activists and voters whose goal is to win control of government. An organized effort by office holders, candidates and activists.

De-alignment

A trend or process whereby a large portion of the electorate abandons its previous partisan affiliation, without developing a new one to replace it.

2nd Amendment

A well regulated Militia, being necessary to the security of a free State, the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed.

Signing statements

A written declaration that a president may make when signing a bill into law. (?)

Third Parties

Also known as Boulder Parties and Splinter parties. Minor parties have impacted politics by pulling support from the major parties. They introduce new ideas that cause the major parties to reevaluate their ideals and policies.

Winner-Take-All-System

Also known as the Pluralist System and is why we have a two party system. The person who gets the most votes wins and gets the seat. Not broken into percentages.

Inherent powers

Also known as the implied powers. The informal powers and duties of the president that have evolved that are not mentioned in article II of the Constitution. Includes executive order, executive privilege, impoundment of funds, and line item veto (declared unconstitutional in 1997).

Congressional checks on the bureaucracy

Alters bureaucratic activities and legislation. Can abolish existing programs. Can refuse to appropriate funds for certain programs. Investigates activities and call to testify. Influences presidential appointments of agency heads. Writes legislation to limit the bureaucracy's discretion.

Secretary of Defense

Always a civilian. Sits on both the Cabinet and National Security Council. Supervises the Army, Navy, and Air Force.

Rider

Amendments added to bills that usually have no connection to the bill unless rules dictate they must be germane. Added to get a bill passed that wouldn't normally get passed on its own.

1986 Handicapped Children's Protection Act

Amends the Education for All Handicapped Children Act to provide funds for states/local agencies in educating handicapped children.

America's Two Party System

America has always had one. The parties have a consensus on values of liberty and equality. The differences in parties come with how to execute this. Neither party seeks to discard the constitution. Both validate the electoral system by conceding defeat. The tendency to always pick a side has remained throughout history. It's characterized by long periods of dominance by one party followed by a long period of dominance by the other.

Lambda Legal Defense and Education Fund

American civil rights organization that focuses on lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender communities as well as people living with HIV and AIDS through impact litigation, societal education, and public policy work.

National Organization for Women

American feminist organization founded in 1966.

Cesar Chavez

American labor leader and civil rights activist who co-founded the National Farm Workers Association in 1962.

1880's

American values were affected by the Industrial Revolution. Economic change was the increase in the inequality in the distribution of wealth and income. Fostered the idea of the individual at the expense of others. "Robber Barrons/Captains of Industry" vs Immigrants.

Politico

An elected representative acts as both a trustee or a delegate depending on the issue.

Trustee

An elected representative who follows a model where decisions are made using their own personal views or based on what's good for the public.

Delegate

An elected representative who follows a model where decisions mirror the voters (constituents) views or do what voters tell them to do.

Critical Elections

An election that signals a party realignment through voter polarization around new issues.

Midterm elections

An election that takes place in the middle of a presidential term.

Referendum

An election where the electorate votes on an issue and the outcome then become implemented. Used in yes or no options not electing a person to office.

Primaries

An election within a party where voters decide which of the party candidates will represent the party in the general election. Either closed or open.

Exit Poll

An in-person poll conducted as voters leave polling places on election day.

Interest Groups

An organization of people who enter the political process to try to achieve their shared goals . Also known as special interests, pressure groups, lobby groups, political groups, and non-governmental organization.

Press Conferance

An unrestricted session with the elected official.

Straw Poll

An unscientific survey used to gauge public opinion on an issue or predict a popular vote.

Property

Anything that belongs to you. (?)

Parties in the Federal Courts

Appointed judges are usually of the same ideology of the President.

Executive checks on the bureaucracy

Appoints and removes agency heads. Reorganizes the bureaucracy. Can change or reduce an agency's budget. Issues executive orders.

Whips

Assistants to the Majority and Minority party leaders. Acts as go betweens for House/Senate members and leadership. They whip up party votes. Republican is Steve Scalise (H) and Mitch McConnel (S). Democrat is Steny Hoyer (H) and Harry Reed (S).

Inoculation Ads

Attempt to counteract an anticipated attack from the opposition before the attack is launched.

Jurisdiction

Authority vested in a particle court to hear and decide the issues in a particular case.

Cantwell vs. CT

Background: Father-son Jehovah Witness's asked people in a catholic neighborhood to convert. Catholic guys listening got angry with them and began to fight. Resulted in a breech of peace and the father and son were arrested for religious soliciting. Question: Did this statue violate free speech and free exercise rights of the 1st amendment? Decision: USSC ruled that yes, the CT ordinance did violate the 1st amendment. Decided you cannot create limitations on soliciting for religions.

Tinker vs. Des Moines

Background: High school students were suspended for wearing armbands protesting the Vietnam War. Question: Were the students' right to free speech violated? Decision: USSC ruled that yes, the student's rights were violated. The school could only take this away if it interfered with school operations.

Bradenburg vs. Ohio (1969)

Background: KKK leader made a speech at a parade and was arrested under an Ohio cynicism law for speaking in a hateful manor. Question: Did the Ohio law violate the 1st amendment? Decision: USSC ruled that yes, the law violated the right to free speech.

Schenk vs. US (1919)

Background: Man printed out papers asking people to boycott the draft during WWI. Question: Were his actions protected by the 1st amendment? Decision: USSC ruled that no, his words were not protected because his words presented a clear and present danger.

Engel vs. Vitale (1962)

Background: New York schools had voluntary praying before school. Question: Did Recitation of a nondenominational prayer violate the establishment clause of the 1st amendment? Decision: USSC ruled that yes, the prayer created by the state might have been advancing one religion over the other.

NY Times vs. Sullivan (1964)

Background: The NY Times printed an add showing Alabama officials abusing African-Americans during a civil rights protest. The newspaper found guilty of libel in Alabama state courts. Question: Was the NY Times guilty of libel? Decision: USSC ruled that the NY Times was not guilty of Libel because Sullivan could not prove he was harmed by the add.

Checks and balances

Balances each branch so each plays an equal part in government. Ensures that one branch won't get all the power.

Vice President

Balances the ticket. They enhance electability and compliment the presidential candidate. The president determines how much of a role the vice president has in government.

Three Types of Elections

Ballot measures, primaries, and general elections.

Why do Republicans favor voting integrity?

Because they want to appeal to citizens with high turnout rates and more traditional voters.

Why do Democrats favor voting access?

Because they want to make voting easier for people.

Regulatory Policy-Business

Began regulating in the late 1800s. Concerns were for eliminating monopolies. Regulating has expanded to monitor business practices.

Montesquieu

Believed in a separation of powers that should be balanced.

Hobbes

Believed man was self interested and the world was corrupt. People entered into government for protection. The best form was an absolute monarchy.

Locke

Believed people had god given rights of life, liberty and property. Said if the government doesn't do the right thing it is the people's job to change it.

Rousseau

Believed people should hold the power. Revolt if needed.

Congressional Elections

Between 1932-1992, incumbents typically won with over 60% of the vote. Reelection rates are high even though satisfaction has remained low. Staff support (promotes the legislator; if they solve the problem it reflects on the incumbent).

Connecticut compromise

Bicameral legislature. In the senate each state would get an equal vote and representation appointed by the state government. The house of representatives would have representation based on population and voted on by people. Gave congress the power to tax. Also known as the Great Compromise. Created by Roger Sherman.

Delegates and Democracy

Both parties draw delegates from an elite group. Democrats are more diverse because 35% of their delegates are minority.

Rugged Individualism

Builds on the idea that liberty and equality are complimented by a commitment to the importance and dignity of the individual, but incorporates a touch of survival of the fittest.

The bureaucracy and the Civil War/1800s

Bureaucracy expanded. Formed the pension office, US Department of Agriculture. Growth of big business helped form agencies in reaction to railroad growth, regulating commerce (Interstate Commerce Commission).

Government corporations

Businesses established by Congress to perform functions that could be provided by private business. They are formed when the financial incentives for private industry to provide services are minimal. Charges a fee for service and makes profits. The government oversees it when a business goes under because it is a vital resource to the country. Example/ Amtrak.

Appellate jurisdiction

Calling up and reviewing a decision of a lower court.

The Supreme Court and Media

Cameras have never been allowed inside USSC proceedings, the let print and radio in only. The courts try to remain non-political and independent. Usually only gets coverage at the end of a session when a justice retires/passes away, when a spot is filled for a justice, and highly anticipated verdicts.

Hard Money

Campaign contributions that are clearly regulated by the Federal Election Committee with limits on amounts.

Soft Money

Campaign contributions that are not regulated by the Federal Election Committee with no limits on amounts.

Campaign Organization

Campaigns have become large as methods of reaching voters has become more advanced. Vastly different than those ran just 25 years ago. No set number of staff as size depends on the type of race. You need a campaign manager, security, finance chair, communications staff (with communications director, consultants, press secretary, volunteers, and internet campaign). Just because a campaign seems to be highly organized it doesn't mean that their candidate will win the election.

Mandate

Can be funded or unfunded. Forces states to follow what the national government says.

Political Leader's affect on Political Opinion

Can drum up support with access to the media. Plays an important role.

Effect of Media on Political Opinion

Can enlighten voters and increase turnout, however information can be occasionally skewed.

Effects of the Media on Public Opinion

Can sway people's opinion who lack strong political beliefs. Especially helps with foreign affairs but not as much domestic. This is only pertinent to people who participate; doesn't work on unmotivated voters.

Bureacrats

Career government employees who work in cabinet-level departments and agencies. Non-elected officials. Employees of the bureaucracy. Exist within the country and in embassies across the world.

Federal Communication Commision

Carefully regulates broadcasting and makes it so you must have a license to operate a radio or television station. Controls the race/ethnicity ratio and restricts the number of commercials aired and decreases the number of shows with violence.

Original jurisdiction

Cases that go directly to the Supreme Court. Include cases in which the US is a party to (Example/ US vs. Nixon), controversies between a state and another state, controversies between two or more states, controversies between citizens of different states (Example/ Gibbons vs. Ogden).

President Pro Tempore

Ceremonial position given to the most senior serving member of the Majority party. Currently held by Orin Hatch.

Furman vs. Georgia (1972)

Challenged the death penalty as being unconstitutional as a violation of the 8th amendment; USSC placed a mandatory moratorium on all states using the death penalty; Rationale that states seemed to use the death penalty in arbitrary manners and the methods could be considered cruel and unusual.

Equality and Justice Interest Groups

Champion equal rights and justice. Has particularly been done for women and minorities. Ex/ NAACP and NOW

17th Amendment

Changed senators from being picked by State Legislatures to being voted on directly by citizens. (Was originally picked by legislatures so the states would be heard in the federal government.

Indirect democracy

Citizens elect representatives to debate, vote on laws, and set policies for them. Also known as a Republic or Representative Democracy. Example/ The USA.

Problems With Voter Turnout-Absentee Voting Difficulty

Citizens must apply in person to get the ballot, liberal laws have shown greater turnout.

Problems With Voter Turnout-Difficulty with Registration

Citizens must take their own initiative to register. Motor-Voter Bill 1993 was designed to make voting registration easier by registering with license renewal but it discriminates against those who do not have a license.

Citizens United vs. FEC

Citizens united challenged that unions should be able to use their money to support various candidates on the grounds of free speech. USSC decided that spending money on a campaign is a form of free speech and can't be restricted. This has led to unchecked campaign spending.

Parties at the Local Level

City/County Committees (more North) and Precinct/Ward Committees (more South). They are the fundamental building blocks of the party. "Grass Roots." They administer/collect elections. They are the activists and volunteers. Over the last 30 years, the state and local parties have become more effective in fundraising, campaign events, and registration drives than the National Party because they can get closer to the voters.

Independent executive agencies

Closely resembles cabinet departments but have narrower areas of responsibility. Performs services rather than regulatory functions. Headed by commissioners appointed by the President with Senate approval. Agencies are outside of the executive office to allow different agencies to remain independent and not be given a label by the public. Example/ NASA, FEMA.

The Federalist Papers

Collection of 85 essays on how the government would work under the Constitution. Used to persuade anti-federalists to ratify the constitution. Written by Madison, Hamilton and Jay.

Education Political Socialization

College educated tend to be republican while advanced degree holders are democrat. High school diploma middle class people are more conservative.

Powers of the executive branch

Commander in Chief of the army, issuing executive orders and agreements.

The President and Media

Commands the most media attention by commanding air time easily. Covering the white house is a prestigious position.

National power is expressed in the...

Commerce clause, necessary and proper clause, and the US Supreme Court.

Special Committees

Committees created to investigate certain issues. Not permanent, could be in the House, Senate or both.

Contrast Ads

Compares the records and proposals of the candidates. Sponsored by the candidate themselves or an organization/interest group. Has a bias towards the candidate sponsoring the add.

Nominating criteria of a Supreme Court Justice includes...

Competence, diversity, ideology/policy preference, rewards, pursuit of political support, and religion.

Economic Interest Group

Concerned primarily with profits, prices, and wages. Government can significantly affect them through regulations, subsidies, contracts, trade policy and tax advantage. Ex/ Labor unions (AFL-CIO), agricultural groups (NFO), bussiness groups (US Chamber of Comerce, GM, AT&T), and professional groups (AMA, ABA, NEA)

Warrentless searches

Conducted by police when it is suspected that someone is committing or about to commit a crime; can also be conducted if consent is obtained.

Census

Conducted every 10 years. Determines needs for redistricting/reapportionment. Counts the number of people.

Problems With Voter Turnout-Other Commitments

Conflicting schedules/illness/emergencies make it hard for people to vote on election day.

The two types of political culture are...

Conflictual and consensual.

Investigatory powers

Congress can investigate national problems and issues. Example/ Watergate scandal, Benghazi, airbag issue in cars, and doping scandal in the MLB.

1st Amendment

Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.

Logrolling

Congressmen trade votes for eachother's pet projects.

Party at the State Level

Consist of State Central Committee and Congressional District Committee.

Critical Election of 1796

Constitutional interpretation of federalists and democratic-republicans.

Three Types of Interest Groups

Consumer and public, economic, and equality and justice.

Joint committee

Contains both House and Senate members.

Conference Committee

Contains both House and Senate members. Only exists when two different versions of a bill come out of each house. They work together to make the bills the same.

Political Parties and Campaign Financing

Contribute about 20% of a candidate's campaign funds. Contribute different amounts for different parts of congress. House gets $5000, Senate gets $43100.

Federal Reserve System/Board

Controls the money supply by adjusting interest rates. Created in 1913. Operates with a lot of independence, not associated to a president or party. Head is appointed by the President and confirmed by the Senate. Cannot be fired by the president. Seven board members serve 14 year, non renewable terms.

Two Types of Political Participation

Conventional and unconventional.

Regulatory Policy-Energy

Coordinated by the Department of Energy created in the 1970s. Main concerns include oil dependency (OPEC), maintaining a cheap supply of energy, and depletion of resources.

National Security Council

Coordinated by the National Security Adviser. Includes the president, vice president, state and defense secretaries.

Escobedo vs. Illinios (1964)

Court case holding that criminal suspects have a right to counsel during police interrogations under the Sixth Amendment and any such confession obtained illegally could not be used in a court of law.

Kelo vs. New London (2005)

Court case that challenged the validity of the takings clause when the City of New London, CT took private property and sold it to a private developer; USSC ruled that it was not a violation as the sale to the private developer was an economic investment/development that would benefit all (the public)

Mapp vs. Ohio (1964)

Court case that declared that "all evidence obtained by searches and seizures in violation of the Constitution is, by [the Fourth Amendment], inadmissible in a state court."; thus creating the Exclusionary Rule.

Gideon vs. Wainwright (1963)

Court case that requires the states to provide defense attorneys to criminal defendants charged with serious offenses who cannot afford lawyers themselves.

Trial court

Court of original jurisdiction where cases begin.

Appellate court

Court that generally reviews only findings of law made by lower courts.

Legislative courts

Courts established by Congress for specialized purposes. Example/ Court of appeals for veterans.

The only way to get rid of an amendment is to...

Create a new amendment.

The Fair Deal

Created by Truman to attempt to bring about programs not covered by the New Deal. Emphasis on healthcare and civil rights.

The Popular Vote

Created in 1824 meant nothing, they just wanted to see who would get the people's vote. The house went against the people.

Lemon vs. Kurtzman (1971)

Created the Lemon Test. Background: Pennsylvania provided funding and material for nonsecular teachings in private schools. Rhode Island provided similar help for elementary schools. Question: Did the statues violate the establishment clause of the 1st amendment by giving funds to religious schools? Decision: USSC ruled that yes, subsidizing these schools furthered religious influence.

Criminal law

Crime against a person or property.

Three-fifths compromise

Decided that southern states could count slaves as 3/5ths of a person for representation. (The south wanted them to count as a whole person).

McCulloch vs. Maryland

Decided that states cannot tax federal property.

Fletcher vs. Peck

Decided that the Supreme Court can declare state laws unconstitutional.

Rules committee

Decides if a bill will be open or closed rule.

Near vs. Minnesota

Declared prior restraint unconstitutional.

Constitutional Guidelines for Elections

Defines the electoral college, sets term limits and date for Nation elections as the Tuesday after the first Monday in November.

Political Culture

Defines the relationship of citizens to government, to one another and to the economy. A good understanding of a country's ____________________ allows one to make sense of the way a country's government is set up. Commonly shared attitudes, beliefs, and core values about how government should operate.

Social Capital

Democratic and civic habits of discussion, compromise, and respect for differences, which grow out of participation in voluntary organizations. Political Culture. The widely shared beliefs, values, and norms concerning the relationship of citizens to government and to one another.

Super-Delegates

Democratic party leaders who vote outside of the state. The vote is not bound to any candidate prior to the convention.

Proportional Representation

Democratic party uses this in choosing candidates to go to a primary (-Milne).

Social Class Political Socialization

Democratic support drops as one climbs the income scale.

High Interest Rates

Discourages borrowing.

Magazines

Do not focus on politics, but news magazines have considerate influence on American government and politics.

Public Funds

Donations to presidential campaigns whereby every dollar raised from individuals in amounts less than $251 is matched by the federal bureaucracy. Come from general tax revenues to candidates for public office (collects $3 from the taxes of those who check the box on their returns). A candidate must raise at least $5000 to apply and 3rd parties must get 5% of votes. Candidates who get public funds must use them as the sole source of campaign funding. The cap is $91.2 million.

Facilitating Policy Making

Done by political parties. Republicans form alliances with republicans and democrats form alliances with democrats which strengthens the party.

Social insurance Taxes

Done for Social Security and Medicare. Account for almost 1/3 of the total federal government revenues collected.

Gerrymandering

Drawing district boundaries in strange ways in order to make it easy for the candidate of one district to win election in that district. It is illegal.

Eras of Political Parties begin and end...

Due to shifts in the voting population that occur because issues change and new schisms form between groups.

District courts

Each state gets at least one, there are 94 in total. Jurisdiction here is original only and must involve federal or multi-state issues, or the federal government is a party. Cases are primarily civil in nature.

US Supreme Court

Eight associate justices and one chief justice. Appointed by the president and confirmed by the senate. Have lifetime tenure for good behavior. Can be impeached. Has both original and appellate jurisdiction. They review cases from the US Courts of Appeals and state supreme courts.

State Guidelines for Elections

Electoral rules and guidelines and voter eligibility.

Constitution and Voting

Eligible voters were male property owners over 21.

24th Amendment

Eliminated the poll tax.

Elitist Theory

Elites find a problem, form a group and the elites put pressure on our congressmen to change.

Low Interest Rates

Encourages Borrowing.

Individuals with Disabilities Education Act

Ensures students with a disability are provided with Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) that is tailored to their individual needs.

Get-Out-The-Vote

Ensuring that voters who are most likely to vote for your campaign actually do so.

Right to privacy

Established by Griswold vs. CT; USSC ruled that various amendments within the Bill of Rights create penumbras, or zones, that establish the right to privacy; 1st, 3rd, 4th, 5th, & 9th amendments.

Miranda rights

Established by Miranda vs. Arizona; a right to silence warning given by police in the United States to criminal suspects in police custody (or in a custodial interrogation) before they are interrogated to preserve the admissibility of their statements against them in criminal trial.

Marbury vs. Madison

Established judicial review. Said only the Supreme Court can declare acts of congress unconstitutional.

Buckley vs. Valeo

Established that there is no limit on how much a candidate can spend on their own campaign.

Cold War

Example of presidential foreign policy. Stopped the spread of communism.

8th Amendment

Excessive bail shall not be required, nor excessive fines imposed, nor cruel and unusual punishments inflicted.

Louisiana purchase

Expands the power of the President in how they go about buying land.

Political Parties were created to...

Facilitate collective action in the electoral process and win elections

Policy coordinating committees

Facilitate interaction among agencies and departments in the sub-cabinet level.

Caucus

Famous in Iowa where it's percentaged out and hand counted by paper (republican) or people (democrat) moving around based on the candidate.

Super PACs

Fast growing actor in electoral politics that spend money independently in individual campaigns. No limits to spending.

Education

Government funds less than 10% of the total amount spent on education in the US. Primarily the responsibility of the state and local governments.

Constitutional courts

Federal courts specifically created by the US Constitution or by Congress in accordance to its authority in Article III.

1988 Civil Liberties Act

Federal law that granted reparations to Japanese Americans who had been interned by the United States government during World War II.

Critical Election of 1800

Federalist party decline.

Critical Election of 1816

Federalist party stops. Era of Good Feelings.

Three audiences of the president

Fellow politicians and leaders in Washington, party activists and officeholders outside Washington, and the public.

Incumbency Advantage The Scare Off Effect

Fends off strong challengers because of institutional advantages of the office.

Use of Experts

Fill in gaps when corespondents lack experience and knowledge. Have a huge impact on shaping the views of the public. Also known as pundits, talking heads.

Spoil system

Firing defeated party office holders and hiring using the patronage game. Example/ Andrew Jackson.

The National Committee

First created in the 1830's by the democratic party. Headed by a chairman/National Chair person. Works/provides solely for the presidential candidate. Smaller committees work for congressional seats.

Judiciary act of 1789

First piece of legislation the US Congress ever created. Created the three tiered federal court system. Decided original or appellate jurisdiction. Fleshes out the supreme court. The number of USSC justices was set at six; expanded to nine in 1869.

Nationalized Healthcare

First proposed by president Truman in 1948. Approached by Johnson through the Great Society. Bill Clinton wanted to expand it in 1993. Some people think it costs too much, costs rise when people don't pay and there is system abuse.

Joint Chiefs of Staff

Five members made up of someone from the Navy/Marines, Army, Air Force and a Chairman. Military advisory body to the secretary of defense.

Number of representatives in the House

Fixed total of 435. Number of representatives per state is based on population determined by the US Census every 10 years. Each state gets at least one.

Population Ecology Theory

Formation of political organizations is conditional on the resources allocated to a given issue area. Only a certain amount of groups can be supported. There's a growth period, a boom period, and then levels off.

The Conservative Wave

Formed by Conservatives concerned by the success of liberal interest groups in the 1960s and the 1970s. Ex/ The Moral Majority and the Christian Coalition have played large roles in the presidential and congressional election of republicans.

Mayflower compact

Formed by the pilgrims. Was the first form of government in the "new world". Laws had a heavy religious influence.

Gitlow vs. New York (1925)

Fundamental freedoms (-Ms. Milne). Anarchist calling for overthrow of the government. Established precedent of federalizing Bill of Rights (applying them to States); States cannot deny freedom of speech - protected through due process clause of the 14th amendment. (?)

Political Action Committee (PAC)

Fundraising organization created by economic or ideologically driven groups. Represent interest groups in the political process. Can give up to $5000 per candidate per election.

No Child Left Behind Act

G. W. Bush administration. Comprehensive program that sets standards and schedules for testing, curriculum, and teacher qualifications. The issue: imposed unfunded mandates on states.

Central Intelligence Agency

Gathers, analyzes, and transmits information from other countries vital to National Security. Much of its work is public and routine.

23rd Amendment

Gave three electoral votes to DC.

America's political culture is...

Generally consensual, we have a broad base of shared political values. Disagreements are on how these values should be implemented, not the basic beliefs themselves.

Random Sample

Gives each person in the group and equal chance to be selected.

New federalism

Giving more control back to the states on how to carry federal policies out. Believed to be brought about during the Nixon and Reagan administrations.

Social Policy

Goals are to protect against risk and insecurity, promote equal opportunity, attempt to assist the poor. Americans are skeptical on government reliance. During the Great Depression more bureaucratic agencies were created to provide assistance. When help is phrased as "welfare" support declines.

Clinton vs. New York

Got rid of the line-item veto.

Prior restraint

Government action blocks publication of material. The 1st Amendment prevents the government from blocking publication because it may reflect poorly. Example/ NY Times vs. US. Censorship imposed, usually by a government, on expression before the expression actually takes place. Declared unconstitutional in 1931. Exception is when documents are vital to national security.

Economic Policy

Government regulation of business practices, industry rates, routes, or areas serviced by particular industries. There is always different opinion on how the government should control the economy.

Healthcare

Government role in research to monitor and cure diseases and protect consumers. FDA, CDC, Pharmaceutical Companies.

Economic Policy-Present

Government should regulate and sometimes manage, but should allow a free market whenever possible.

Parties in State Governments

Governors have a large amount of power in their party. State judiciaries vary with party influence.

Writ of certiorari

Granted to cases for which the federal government is a party (solicitor general), conflict among lower courts, constitutional question, involves important social issues and wide spread interest group support.

The National Party

Has a party platform. It works for candidates at the national level to get elected to various offices like President or Congress. They form a committee to accomplish this.

Executive order

Has the same effect as law. Avoids congress. Delegated power. Checked by the Supreme Court.

Loose constructionists

Have a broad interpretation of the Constitution. They focus on the implied powers and necessary and proper clause. They believe that as long as the Constitution doesn't forbid "it", then "it" can be done. Called Federalists. Example/ Alexander Hamilton.

Strict constructionists

Have a very literal interpretation of the Constitution. They focus on the enumerated powers. They believe that if "it" isn't in the Constitution then "it" can't be done. Called Democratic Republicans. Example/ Thomas Jefferson.

Medicaid

Health insurance for qualifying low income families. Also includes food stamps.

Medicare

Health insurance for the elderly. Those over 65 and/or retired.

Why Incumbents Loose Midterm Ellections

Held in the middle of a presidential term. Can be seen as a referendum on the president. If a voter doesn't like where the presidency is going they will vote for congressmen of the opposite party.

Patronage

Hiring friends and party loyalists to positions for their support.

Implementation

How agencies execute congressional wishes: the process by which a law or policy is put into operation. Because Congress is giving them this power policy has the same effect as law.

Judicial implementation

How and whether judicial decisions are translated into actual public policies affecting more than the immediate parties to a lawsuit.

Saliency

How important an issue or topic is to a particular group.

Why we keep the Electoral College

If we were to reform the electoral college it would require a constitutional amendment which is time consuming. Racial minorities feel the current system protects their vote (same with interest groups). History and tradition run deep. There's no clear consensus on an alternative. Collectively benefits small states and large states. It favors a two party system.

Isolationism

In American diplomacy, the traditional belief that the United States should refrain from involvement in overseas politics, alliances, or wars, and confine its national security interest to its own borders.

7th Amendment

In Suits at common law, where the value in controversy shall exceed twenty dollars, the right of trial by jury shall be preserved, and no fact tried by a jury, shall be otherwise re-examined in any Court of the United States, than according to the rules of the common law.

6th Amendment

In all criminal prosecutions, the accused shall enjoy the right to a speedy and public trial, by an impartial jury of the State and district wherein the crime shall have been committed, which district shall have been previously ascertained by law, and to be informed of the nature and cause of the accusation; to be confronted with the witnesses against him; to have compulsory process for obtaining witnesses in his favor, and to have the Assistance of Counsel for his defense.

Due Process Clause

In the 14th Amendment . "Nor shall any state deprive any person of life, liberty, or property, without due process of law."

Equal Protection Clause

In the 14th Amendment. No state shall, "deny to any person within its jurisdiction the equal protection of the laws."

Three Parts to a Party

Include an office holder, worker/activist, and voters.

Shortcomings of Polling

Include survey error, limited response options, lack of information, measuring intensity and lack of interest.

The four ways in which people connect to the government

Include voting in elections, political parties, media, and interest groups.

Late 19th/Early 20th Century Journalistic Styles

Included yellow journalism and muckraking.

Unconventional Participation

Includes protests, picketing and boycotts.

The Function of a Party

Includes running candidates for office, formulating and promoting policy and connecting citizens to the government.

Conventional Participation

Includes voting, letter writing and campaign contributions.

During wartime presidential powers are...

Increased. Example/ Executive order 9066.

Incumbency Advantage Money

Incumbents are usually able to raise more campaign contributions than their challengers. PACs contribute more money to incumbents than to their challengers. Incumbents outspend challengers by a ration of more than 2 to 1.

Why Incumbents Loose Redistricting

Incumbents can loose their seat against other incumbents. Most people wait for incumbents to retire. Also gerrymandering.

Incumbency Advantage Franking Privilege

Incumbents have access free mailings. They don't need to pay postage.

Political Efficacy

Is a citizen's capacity to understand and influence political events.

Chief of staff

Individual who oversees the operations of all White House staff and controls access to the president. (?)

Campaign Manager

Individual whose role is to coordinate a political campaign's operations.

Citizen Journalist

Individuals who collect, report and analyze news content through social media and blogs. Some people say it is democratizing, the impact is a debatable issue.

Behavioral characteristics decision model

Influenced by background differences. Could be childhood experiences, religious values, education, earlier legal and political career, party loyalties.

Political Knowledge

Influenced by literacy and knowledge of politics and history. People can get cues from leader or opinion makers. _________________ influences a lot.

First Lady

Informal advisor to the President. Highly visible in public and creates public initiatives. Example/ Michelle Obama healthy food, and Betty Ford alcoholism help.

Executive agreements

Informal agreements. Non-binding. Do not need Senate aproval.

Deep Background

Information provided that will not be attributed to any source; it's origin is unknown.

On the Record

Information provided to a journalist that can be released and attributed by name to the source.

On Background

Information provided to a journalist that is used but not attributed to a named source.

Off the Record

Information provided to a journalist that will not be released to the public.

Powers of the House of Representatives

Initiates all revenue bills (tax laws), drafts charges of impeachment. They break electoral deadlock if the electoral college cannot decide who is the president.

Grassroots Mobilization

Inspiring and organizing interest group members to become active. Can be done through email/text messaging, letter writing campaigns, petition drives, fundraisers, protests/radical activism.

John Peter Zenger

Instilled the wanting for freedom of the press.

Ballot Measures

Intended to give citizens more direct control over policy making. Includes initiatives, recalls, and referendum.

Disturbance Theory

Interest groups form as a result of changes in the political system. One wave of groups gives way to another that represents a different perspective. Ex/ The Sons of Liberty forming as a result in the changes of taxation policy by Great Britain.

Electronic Media

Internet technology and access has transformed communication in a very short period of time. Social media influences politics and election outcomes. The most rapidly growing type of mass media.

Foreign Policy-Post WWI/II to 2000

Interventionist. Proactive approach to maintaining security and promoting democratic ideals. Cold War.

Political Opinion Polls

Interviews or surveys with samples of citizens that are used to estimate the feelings and beliefs of the entire population.

The Purpose of Elections

Is to confirm the concept of popular sovereignty, ensure democratic governance, and it's a key means to fill public office and staff in the government. The electorate also presents politicians with mandates to either change or continue policies.

Foreign Policy-Pre20th Century

Isolationist. Philosophy was that we should avoid "entangling alliances".

Lack of accountability

It's difficult to fire incompetent bureaucrats.

Prospective Judgement

Judgement based on what the candidate will do.

Exclusionary rule

Judicially created doctrine that prohibits police from using illegally seized evidence at trial. Example/ Mapp vs. Ohio.

Dissenting opinion

Justices explaining why they opposed the majority opinion.

Concurrent opinion

Justices that agree with the majority opinion but their reasoning is different.

Strategic decision model

Justices think about how external/internal variables will effect and be affected by their decision. Suggests that justices are perspective (looking at long term). Preserves policy long after they are gone from the court.

Economic Policy-New Deal Era

Keynesian Economics-Government should manage the economy.

Effect of peers on Political Opinion

Kids are influenced by friends.

The Era of the Great Society

LBJ's quest to create a better America, part of this was his war on poverty. Return of the progressive spirit and continuance of New Deal, Fair Deal concepts. Interests included African Americans, women, elderly, the poor, education, environment, consumer. Advocated more liberal policy for the these areas of focus.

Economic Policy-18th and 19th Century

Laissez Faire. Free Market, no intervention.

Griswold vs. CT (1965)

Landmark Supreme Court decision that recognized that a married couple has a right of privacy that cannot be infringed upon by a state law making it a crime to use contraceptives; established the judicially created doctrine of the right to privacy.

Roe vs. Wade (1972)

Landmark case citing that a woman's right to an abortion fell under the right to privacy and the protection of the 14th amendment thus making 46 state laws banning it unconstitutional; Established a time table as to which the woman had absolute control over her decision and when the government would be involved. Cited Griswold as precedent.

Interest Group Success-Size

Large mostly fairs better than small.

27th Amendment

Last amendment to be ratified by the Constitution. Congress can't give pay raises to themselves while in office.

Fundamental orders of Connecticut

Later became a model for the constitution. Created by Thomas Hooker who founded CT after being exiled for issues with the church.

Civil law

Law suits, suing something or someone.

Black Codes

Laws passed by Southern states in 1865 and 1866. Had the intent and the effect of restricting African Americans' freedom, and forcing them to work in a labor economy based on low wages or debt.

Solicitor general

Lawyer that represents the US when the US must argue in the Supreme Court.

LULAC

League of United Latin American Citizens. Latino civil rights organization established 1929. Sought to end ethnic discrimination against Latinos in the United States.

Black Children Political Opinion

Less positive about the president.

Amicus Curiae Briefs

Letters submitted to the court that supports one side or the other on a case.

Ideology

Liberals vote democrat and conservatives vote republican.

Core American Values

Liberty, equality, individualism, democracy, rule of law, and civic duty

Hispanic Political Opinion

Like government sponsored health insurance.

Individuals and Campaign Financing

Limited to spending no more than $2,500 per candidate per election but can donate more to parties and PACs over two years. Total contribution per two year cycle is $117,00.

Suggested bureaucratic reform

Limiting appointments to 6-12 years, making it easier to fire a bureaucrat, rotating professionals between agencies and from outside, rewarding employee initiatives, fewer rules, and emphasizing costumer satisfaction.

Reconciliation

Limits the debate the debate on budget bills to twenty hours to stop the threat of filibuster.

Mass Media

Links public opinion and the government. It's influence on politics is enormous. Types include print, broadcast, and electronic.

Geographic Location Political Socialization

Location influences how a person votes. Southerners switched to vote more republican during the Civil Rights movement.

Regulatory Commision

Looks at issues regarding interstate trade. Ex/The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission oversees the country's interstate transmission and pricing of a variety of energy resources, including electricity, natural gas and oil.

Executive branch

Made up of the President, Vice President, and the Cabinet.

Legislative branch

Made up of the Senate and House of Representatives. Each state has two senators. In the House representation is based off of population.

Judicial branch

Made up of the nine individuals of the Supreme Court.

Bureaucratic agencies

Make policies and choose actions that are not spelled out in advanced by laws. Their main function is to do the nuts and bolts of executing policies that are made by Congress, the President and Supreme Court.

The Cabinet

Makes up the executive branch. Includes the Vice President and the heads of 15 executive departments.

Proposed Solutions to Low Voter Turnout

Making election day a national holiday, enable early voting to accommodate schedules, mail-in/online voting, easier registration process, modern ballots (preventing "hanging" chads), re-strengthening of parties.

Texas vs. Johnson

Man burned an American flag as a means of protest against Reagan administration policies. Johnson was tried and convicted under a Texas law outlawing flag desecration. USSC decided that burning of a flag was protected expression under the First Amendment.

Barron vs. Baltimore

Man sued the city to recover a portion of his financial losses after city expansion ruined his wharf with sand. USSC decided that the Fifth Amendment was specifically intended to limit the powers of the national government and the state did not need to compensate.

Shay's Rebellion

Massachusetts. Farmers were unable to trade because they were only given paper bills and they needed coins. Daniel Shay formed a mob and rebelled against the state government. The US government at the time was not allowed to raise an army to put the rebellion down. Highlighted the problems with the Articles of Confederation.

Cloture

Mechanism for ending a filibuster; 60 senators must vote for cutting the debate.

Committee of the whole

Mechanism that allows 100 representatives to create a quorum to bring a bill to the floor debate. (Skips house committee and full committee).

Discharge petition

Mechanism that will kick a bill out of committee once 218 representatives sign it. Prevents pigeonholing (the death of bill in committee.

Incumbency Advantage Visibility

Media access, have travel allowances for appearances. Are more in the public eye than challengers. District attentiveness=electoral safety.

Coalition Building

Members of Congress try to use other congressmen to gain/block votes for a bill. Builds allies to help with their particular problem/goal.

Block grant

Money is used for broad uses. States decide where to put the money. Example/ Medicaid.

Critical Election of 1980's-Today

More candidate centered politics, voting for person not party. De-alignment (independents) causes divided government.

Female Political Opinion

More liberal about social welfare and more negative about war.

White Political Opinion

More likely to support war.

Interest Group Success-Funding

More money the better. Groups get their money from membership dues, grants, direct solicitation, and patrons to pay for everything.

Male Political Opinion

More pro war and conservative.

Ways and Means Committee

Most important committee in the House. Where all revenue bills start.

Clerks

Most justices employ 2-4. Help justices select only the most important cases for the discuss list.

20th Amendment

Moved up the presidential inauguration date from March to January 20th.

Duplication

Multiple agencies doing the same thing.

Content and Questions of Polls

Must be clear and objective. Questions should be constructed carefully and on point. Any ambiguity or bad questions can skew results.

NARF

Native American Rights Fund. Non-profit organization that uses existing laws and treaties to ensure that U.S. state governments and the U.S. federal government live up to their legal obligations to Native-Americans.

Compulsive president

Negative and active. Example/ Hoover. *Look at sheet*

Withdrawn president

Negative and passive. Example/ Coolidge. *Look at sheet*

NY Times vs. US

Nixon Administration attempted to prevent the New York Times and Washington Post from publishing materials belonging to a classified Defense Department study regarding the history of United States activities in Vietnam. The President argued that prior restraint was necessary to protect national security. The USSC decided that that since publication would not cause an inevitable, direct, and immediate event imperiling the safety of American forces, prior restraint was unjustified.

3rd Amendment

No Soldier shall, in time of peace be quartered in any house, without the consent of the Owner, nor in time of war, but in a manner to be prescribed by law.

5th Amendment

No person shall be held to answer for a capital, or otherwise infamous crime, unless on a presentment or indictment of a Grand Jury, except in cases arising in the land or naval forces, or in the Militia, when in actual service in time of War or public danger; nor shall any person be subject for the same offence to be twice put in jeopardy of life or limb; nor shall be compelled in any criminal case to be a witness against himself, nor be deprived of life, liberty, or property, without due process of law; nor shall private property be taken for public use, without just compensation.

US attorneys

Nominated by the president and confirmed by the senate. One for each district court.

Two Types of Campaigns

Nominating and general election campaign.

501(c) Group

Nonprofit tax exempt interest groups that can advocate for candidates. Don't have to disclose who their donors are. Can spend 1/2 of funds on campaign politics.

527 Political Committee

Not limited or subject to regulations by the Federal Election Committee. Spend on electioneering activities like GOTV.

Bi-partisan

Not party affiliated. (?)

House of Representatives

Number of representatives is based on population, two year terms.

Common Core

Obama administration. A new, comprehensive set of standards that students starting in kindergarten through 11th grade will be asked to learn through year end testing. The issue: teaching to the test.

Fiscal Year

October 1st-September 30th.

Baker vs. Carr

One man, one vote (-Ms. Milne). Ordered state legislative districts to be as near equal as possible in population; Warren Court's judicial activism. (?)

Gerald Ford

Only Vice President and President not to be elected to either position.

Filibuster

Only exists in the Senate. Formal way of halting senate action on a bill by long speeches and unlimited debate in the senate floor debate.

Line-item veto

Only vetoing certain parts of a bill. Declared unconstitutional in 1997 in USSC case Clinton vs. NYC.

Office of management and budget

Organization within the executive office of the president that oversees the budgets of departments and agencies. (?)

National security council

Organization within the executive office of the president that provides foreign policy advice to the president. (?)

Article V of the Constitution

Outlines how to amend the Constitution. Proposal needs to be made by 2/3rds of Congress and ratification vote by 3/4ths of the state legislatures. Proposals can also be made by national conventions and ratified by state conventions.

Article IV of the Constitution

Outlines relationship between the federal governments and states. Guarantees a republican government. Full faith and credit clause: All states abide by federal laws and recognize laws of other states. Privileges and immunities clause: held the states as a cohesive front.

Party Platform

Outlines where the political party stands on various issues.

Consumer and Public Interest Group

Over 2000 groups. "In the public interest." Seek a collective good, benefits for everyone, not just the members of the interest groups. Ex/ Public interest groups (Common Cause, League of Women's Voters) and environmental groups (Sierra Club).

PACs vs. Interest Groups

PACs have donors, interest groups have members and donors. PACs are the political arm of interest groups. They are like parties when they focus on election results. PACs are like interest groups when interest in the candidates are narrowly based.

Family Political Socialization

Parents are the greatest influence in establishing a person's first party identification. Parents with strong beliefs will have kids with the same. Non strong beliefs will have kids that identify more as independent.

Title IX

Part of the Education Amendments Act of 1972. "No person in the United States shall, on the basis of sex, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any education program or activity receiving Federal financial assistance."

Formulating and Promoting Policy

Parties articulate policies and give cues to voters. Both Major parties are by necessity broadly based. Each convey an image and endorse policies that help voters decide which candidate to support. They do this through a national party platform.

Organizing Government

Parties determine leadership positions in Congress, Executive Branch, Federal Courts, and State Governments.

Parties vs. Interest Groups

Parties influence government primarily through the electoral process. Parties run candidates, interest groups fund candidates. Parties generate and support a broad spectrum of policies. Interest groups support one or few related policies.

Running Candidates for Office

Parties pick policy makers and run campaigns. Candidates rely on the party organization to coordinate and fund their political campaigns despite personal wealth. Parties have extensive networks that they reach out to mobilize support and/or get out the vote.

Partisan

Party affiliated. (?)

Connecting Citizens to the Government

Party ideology and organization increase political efficacy by helping citizens to make sense of government decisions and processes, and to feel that government listens to them.

Critical Election of 1820-1860

Party lines are drawn geographically and economically on how people view slavery and Lincoln. Known as Secular Realignment.

The Organization of Parties

Party organization starts at the national level and moves down to the state and local areas.

Minority party

Party that does not hold the majority of seats in Congress.

Majority party

Party that holds the most seats in Congress. Holds the most important leadership positions in Congress.

2nd way to ratify a Constitutional amendment

Passage by three-quarters of special state conventions. Used once to repeal prohibition (21st Amendment).

1st way to ratify a Constitutional amendment

Passage by three-quarters of state legislatures. Used successfully twenty-six times.

Federal Income Taxes

Passed by the 16th Amendment. Accounts for 40% of the total revenue the government brings in. Corporations-10%. Taxes are progressive, the higher the income, the higher the rate.

14th Amendment

Passed in 1868; it defined citizenship, due process (civil liberties) and equal protection (civil rights). Funneled Bill of Rights to the states. Selectively incorporated over time.

Entitlement Programs

Payments are required by law and by eligibility. Largest programs are Social Security, Medicare/Medicaid, and unemployment.

Lack of Interest

People don't know and don't care about things that do not directly affect them. Ex/ Foreign policy.

Non-Contributory Programs

People don't pay in. Includes free/reduced lunch, federal housing assistance and food stamps.

Executive office of the White House

Performs services for the president. Agency heads must receive Senate confirmation. Consists of agencies that report to the president such as the, National Security Council, Office of Management and Budget, National Economic Council.

Lame duck period

Period of time in which the president's power is perceived to be diminished when their term is coming to an end and they are not/cannot run for reelection.

Standing committee

Permanent committees. 19 in the House and 16 in the Senate.

Open rule bill

Permits amendments to a bill and often has less strict time limits, allowing for input.

Earmark

Pet projects, frivolous spending. Funds set aside for district or state projects in appropriation bills. Drives up legislation costs.

Regulatory Policy-Environment

Policy responsibility is handled by various agencies and government departments. EPA bears most of that responsibility by enforcing policies on water and air pollution, pesticides, radiation, and waste disposal.

Madison's Belief on Political Parties

Political factions were necessary evils to be controlled by federalism and separation of powers.

Pluralist Theory

Political power is distributed among a wide array of diverse and competing interests. Benefits democracy because it brings representation to all.

Creation of Political forums

Politicians have leaned to use mass media to make big announcements and push agendas. The media counts on politics to "make news" in order to keep ratings high. The president has the most direct access to media.

National Election Studies

Poll that looks at how and why people vote not who/what they vote for.

Measuring Intensity

Polls lack the ability to measure the intensity of which a person agrees or disagrees with certain issues.

The Constitution is based on the principles of...

Popular sovereignty, separation of powers, checks and balances, limited government, and federalism.

Partisan Politics

Poses an issue to the electoral college. Seen in the election of 1800 and Era of Divided Government.

Adaptive president

Positive and active. Example/ Franklin D. Roosevelt. *Look at sheet*

Compliant president

Positive and passive. Example/ Harding.*Look at sheet*

Expressed powers

Powers exclusively held by the federal government. Also referred to as Delegated or Enumerated powers.

Reserved powers

Powers exclusively held by the states.

Article I of the Constitution

Powers of Congress. Enumerated the basic powers given to our government. Right to raise taxes, declare war and regulate interstate commerce. Elastic/necessary and proper clause gave Congress the right to pass any law related to its expressed powers. The US Congress is given the power to collect all revenue.

Article II of the Constitution

Powers of the Executive Branch. States the president is commander in chief, appoints ambassadors, judges, and other executive officials with the Senate's consent. President executes the laws put in place by the legislative branch. Created an indirect means to elect a president through the Electoral College. The House can accuse the president of crimes worthy of impeachment but only the Senate can hold the trial to remove him from office.

Article III of the Constitution

Powers of the Judiciary Branch. Interprets what our laws mean. Sets up the supreme court. Sets up jurisdiction. Explains what treason is. Talks about impeachment. The Chief Justice presides over the impeachment trial. Alexander Hamilton called it the least dangerous branch. Congress gave it more and more power over time.

Enumerated powers

Powers of the president listed in article II of the constitution. Includes military power, diplomatic power, appointment power, veto power, pardon power, convene congress, and state of the union address.

Concurrent powers

Powers that are shared by both the state and federal government.

Attitudinal decision model

Preference towards issues of public policy. Factors include party identification, law interpretations, party of the president, liberal/conservative leanings. Justices adapt their interpretations of the law to fit their ideological beliefs.

Moral booster

President aids and supports the country in times of crisis and tragedy. They put party aside to move forward. The president should inspire. Example/ JFK's new frontier, 9/11.

Leader of the party

President carries out their party's platform.

Policy maker

President decides domestic and foreign policies.

Chief executive

President has other people carry out laws for them.

Constitutional powers of the Vice President

President of the Senate. Breaks senate ties.

Agenda setter

President outlines initiatives they would like their administration to do. Set goals.

Head of state

President represents the US.

Chief diplomat

President signs and makes treaties and agreements.

Grandfather Clause

Prevented African-Americans from voting during the reconstruction era. Used in southern states. Said an individual was only eligible to vote if they were a descendant of someone who voted before 1867.

Federal Regulations

Print Media has much fewer government restrictions than does electronic media. A newspaper or magazine may be sued or prosecuted for libel or obscenity but it's very hard to prove.

Writs of habeas corpus

Prisoners have the right to know the charges being brought against them; Authorities must prove that a prisoner is being lawfully held and if a judge is not, the prisoner must be released. Suspended by Abraham Lincoln during the Civil War.

Voter Canvass

Process by which a campaign reaches individual voters. Ex/ Door-to-door, telephone, etc,.

Effects of Media on Agenda Setting

Process of forming a list of issue to be addressed by the government. The media has the ability to draw public attention to particular issues including political, social and economic power. Media may promote or detract from a politician's agenda.

Finance Chair

Professional who coordinates the fund raising efforts for the campaign.

Mandatory Spending

Programs that must be funded/can't go below a certain percentage of money. Ex/Entitlement Programs.

18th Amendment

Prohibited the sale of alcohol. Prohibition.

Moderate

Recognize that both sides have a piece of the truth and see flaws in the standard liberal and conservative perspectives. (?)

Why Incumbents Loose

Redistricting, scandals, coattails, midterm elections.

Muckraking

Reform oriented journalist committed to truthful reporting. Uncovered things. Ex/ The Jungle, a muckraking book that aided in the creation of the FDA.

Church Goers and Voter Turnout

Regular church goers are more likely to vote than those that do not attend.

Independent regulatory commision

Regulates a specific economic activity or interest. Operates outside of the executive departments. Develops the expertise to deal with issues that neither Congress nor the courts have time to deal with. Example/ Occupational safety and health administration.

Veto

Rejection of a bill passed by both houses, preventing the bill from becoming law.

Stare decisis

Reliance on past decisions or precedents to formulate decisions in new cases. It's the process that takes place during the conference vote.

Indian Removal Act 1830

Relocated Native-Americans from Indian lands within existing state borders to unsettled lands west of the Mississippi. Authorized the use of force to reach this goal.

Critical Election of 1860-1900

Remarkably stable parties. Era of the political machine. Parties provide services like jobs.

21st Amendment

Repealed prohibition.

Fairness Doctrine

Required broadcasters to give time to opposing views if they broadcast a program giving one side of a controversial issue. Taken away by the FCC in 1987. Today it's followed voluntarily by broadcast shows.

1973 War Powers Act

Says the president can commit troops to an area for up to 60 days and must notify Congress of that decision within 48 hours. After 60 days the president has 30 days to bring them back unless Congress declares war.

Why Incumbents Loose Scandals

Scandals can loose votes for incumbents. Typically they do not loose reelection rather they resign instead.

Internet Polls

Scientific queries of selective respondents. NOT those randomly launched by news cites.

Majority party leader

Second in command to the Speaker of the House. Responsible for scheduling bills, rounds up votes on bills the party favors. Currently held by Kevin McCarthy.

Original Cabinet

Secretary of state, war, and treasury

Campaign Consultants

Sells technologies, services, and strategies required to get that candidate elected.

Yellow Journalism

Sensationalized reporting, NOT FAKE NEWS, just kind of exaggerated.

The Constitution was ratified on...

September 17th, 1787.

Markup

Session in which committee members offer changes to a bill before it goes to the floor.

Closed rule bill

Sets strict time limits on debates and forbids amendments from the floor, except those from the presenting committee.

Founding Fathers believed that political parties...

Should and could be avoided at all costs.

Iron triangles

Show the relatively stable relationships that occur among agencies never changes. Occurs among agencies, interest groups, and congressional committees or subcommittees. Interest groups go to congress and then congress will make a law and a bureaucratic agencies will carryout that law and the agencies will then talk to the interest group.

Symbolic speech

Symbols, signs and other methods of expression are protected to a point...Schools limit the right to speech especially in, around, and off campus as well as concerns of school safety. Example/ Tinker vs. Des Moines.

Northwest Ordinance

System of adopting states into the country. Still in the Constitution today.

Push Polls

Taken to provide information on an opponent that will lead respondents to vote against that candidate. Launched by a candidate's opponents.

Narrowcasting

Targeting media programming at specific populations within society. Helps minorities left out of mainstream media coverage. Ex/ MSNBC (Left) vs Fox News (Right).

Social Security

Targets elderly, poor, and disabled. Employees and employers contribute to a fund through payroll taxes. eligible to receive money after contributing for 10 years.

Elementary/Highschool Political Opinion

Taught to be patriotic.

College Political Opinion

Taught to question.

Excise Taxes

Taxes on top of tax. Ex/ Gas in CT.

Estate Tax

Taxes on what you own at time of death.

Clear & present danger test

Test that draws the line between what is protected and what is not. Civil liberties are greatly diminished during times of war. Schenck vs US.

Rule of Law

The belief that government is based on a body of law applied equally, impartially, and justly. The rule of the individual tends o conjure up images of a dictator.

16th Amendment

The Congress shall have power to lay and collect taxes on incomes, from whatever source derived, without apportionment among the several States, and without regard to any census or enumeration. Created direct federal income tax of the people.

Gregg vs. Georgia (1976)

The Court held that a punishment of death did not violate the Eighth and Fourteenth Amendments under all circumstances.

Establishment clause

The Federal government cannot establish an official national religion. Furthered the separation of church and state. Example/ Engel vs. Vitale and Lemon vs. Kurtzman.

1930's

The Great Depression brought about the near-collapse of capitalism. The New Deal was an affirmation of the government's responsibility for the welfare of its people. These beliefs played a major role in the creation of the civil rights and welfare legislation in the 1960's.

"Little Rock Nine"

The Little Rock Nine was a group of nine African American students enrolled in Little Rock Central High School in 1957.

NAFTA

The North American Free Trade Agreement, an agreement signed by Canada, Mexico, and the United States, creating a trilateral trade bloc in North America.

Gibbons vs. Ogden

The Supreme Court case that upheld the broad congressional power to regulate interstate commerce. Paved the way for later rulings upholding expansive federal powers.

Problems With Voter Turnout-Number of Elections

The US holds twice as many elections than any other western democracy. So many voters skip parts of the electoral process, because there is so much.

Sample Size of Polls

The _______________ is the subset of a whole population selected to be questioned for gauging opinion. You want a large ___________. Comes in two types, Random and Stratified.

Administrative discretion

The ability of bureaucrats to make choices concerning the best way to implement congressional or executive intentions.

Pardon

The ability to give civil rights back to those who had it taken away. Clears people of any wrong doing.

Veto power

The ability to reject a bill from becoming a law.

1917-1970

The bureaucracy grew exponentially to meet the demands of the country.

The 4th branch of government

The bureaucracy.

Majority rule

The central premise of direct democracy in which only policies that collectively garner the support of a majority of voters will be made into law.

Horse Race Journalism

The concept that political campaigns are covered like the frenetic pace of a race. Can impact/influence voter choice and turnout.

Political Opinion

The distribution of individual attacks toward a particular issue, candidate or political institution. Studying American ___________________ is complex. American ___________________ is an integral part of the political process.

Federalism

The division and sharing of power between the national and state government. Maintains order while preserving freedom.

Federal bureaucracy

The employees of the federal government agencies/institutions that implement and administer federal laws and programs. They set specific guidelines after receiving a general mandate from Congress. Started in the first cabinet of George Washington. There are over 2000 bureaus, divisions, branches, offices, services and other sub units of the federal government. Federal agencies maintain regional offices in 11 locations across the country. This brings them closer to the public, increasing the efficiency of providing services.

9th Amendment

The enumeration in the Constitution, of certain rights, shall not be construed to deny or disparage others retained by the people.

George Gallup

The father of modern day polling. Founded Gallup Polls which were more scientific but got the 1948 election wrong, falsely predicting Thomas E. Dewey as the winner of the election.

Borrowing Money

The federal government borrows from it's own citizens through bonds.

Categorical grant

The federal government dictates where the money can be used.

Bill of Rights

The first 10 amendments to the Constitution. Along with ratifying the Constitution, each state also added on other rights they would like to have added. These ended up being drafter into the _____________.

Government

The formal vehicle through which policies are made and affairs of state are conducted.

Regulatory Policy

The government first began regulating individuals, businesses, and its own agencies during the late 1800s. Today most activities are regulated in some way by the federal government. Important regulatory activities include, business, labor, energy, and the environment.

Articles of Confederation

The government that won the Revolutionary War. Created the Northwest Ordinance, established a republican government. The Framers were so scared of tyranny by a central government that they limited the government too much. Created a loose separation of states each with their own currency. The states had more power than the central government (states could even make treaties with other countries). Central government could not raise revenue. There was no court system.

Monetary Policy

The government's control over the money supply. Control over how much or how little is in circulation by print and coin. Controls inflation and deflation. Done by the Federal Reserve System which is overseen by the Federal Reserve Board.

Fiscal Policy

The government's method of raising money and spending it.

Secular Realignment

The gradual realignment of a party coalition, based more on demographic shifts than on shocks to the political system.

Liberal

The left of the democratic side. Look forward and like experimentation and new ideas. Tax and spend. Don't want the government to interfere with personal things ex/ abortion.

Congress

The legislative branch. Made up of two houses.

Political Socialization

The life long process through which an individual acquires opinions through contact with family, friends, coworkers and other group associations. Media and social media also play a role in this.

Issue networks

The loose and informal relationships that exist among a large number of actors who work in broad policy areas. They include lawyers, consultants, academics, public relation specialists, (maybe courts). There is a constant change of members as issues require certain expertise or gather newly interested parties.

18-24 Year Olds

The lowest voting levels of any age categories.

Voter Turnout and Election Competition

The more competitive the race, more people come out to vote.

Party Identification

The most powerful indicator of how someone is going to vote.

Telephone Poll

The most used system to gauge the mode of the electorate. Conducted through randomized digit dialing. Problems lie in the lack of land lines and when people have no time.

Press Release

The official comment on an issue or event that directly goes to the press through fax, email, letters, etc,.

Print Media

The oldest form of media in the US. Hartford Courant is the oldest in the country.

Pollster

The person who conducts or analyzes opinion polls.

Nominating Campaign

The phase of the political campaign aimed at winning a primary election. Starts years before the general election. Candidates must target the party leaders and interest groups. Primary voters are more extreme and ideological (people who will only vote for their party). It's all about that base.

Judicial restraint

The philosophy that courts should allow the decisions of other branches of the government to stand. Strict constructionism.

Judicial activism

The philosophy that judges should use their power broadly to further justice. They think it's appropriate to correct the injustices committed by the other branches of government.

Impeachment

The power delegated to the House in the Constitution to charge the president, vice president or other "civil officers" with "Treason, bribery, or other high Crimes and Misdemeanors." First step in the process of removing government officials from office.

10th Amendment

The powers not delegated to the United States by the Constitution, nor prohibited by it to the States, are reserved to the States respectively, or to the people. Used as state right's main argument.

Appointment power

The president appoints federal judges, executive officers, Supreme Court justices, and ambassadors. Most need senatorial approval. The president can fire them whenever.

Convene congress

The president calls congress back into session.

Diplomatic power

The president can form treaties and executive agreements.

Impoundment of funds

The president can withhold funds. Checked by Congress.

Military power

The president is Commander in Chief. Prevents a military coupe.

The Presidential Party

The president is the head of the party, the public face of the party. No same party member runs against the president in his reelection campaign. He gives back to those who support through positions and fundraising.

State of the union adress

The president must give a state of the union a address to Congress once every year.

Chief Justice

The presiding judge in the Supreme Court. Presides over the Impeachment trial in the Senate. Writes the opinion of the court when in the majority.

Red tape

The rules, regulations, and paperwork. This is overwhelming so people avoid it.

Civic Duty

The sense of community and individual responsibility to support community efforts...not as strong as it used to be; shift from "that it has to be done" to "done when it can".

Separation of powers

The separation of the power of government into different parts. Prevents one branch of government from becoming too powerful. Prevents tyranny. Executive, legislative, and judicial branches.

National Chair Person

The spokesman for a party who keeps party platform and discipline. They are selected for the position. Their responsibility is to raise funds for the party (NOT CAMPAIGN MANAGERS).

Revenue sharing

The system of disbursing part of federal tax revenues to state and local governments for their use.

Pork

The things in legislative bills that drive up the cost of a bill due to congressmen's pet projects with riders and amendments.

Liberty

The tradition of _________ is deeply rooted in the Declaration of Independence.

Cabinet

The traditional body of the executive branch. Serves as an advisory board with little influence over the president. There are 15 departments. First three are treasury, state, and war (defense). President has little control over the departments because he appoints so few employees.

Devolution

The transfer of certain powers from one entity to another. It's an effort to reduce federal government powers by transferring some responsibilities to the state governments. (?)

The National Convention

The ultimate governing body of the party. They adopt rules and platform. Happens once every four years when a candidate formally accepts the party nomination for President. Today they are like pep rallies. They mobilize supporters and engage casual observers. A long time ago it would determine who would be the nominee.

Individualism

The values of equality and liberty are complemented by a commitment to the importance and dignity of the individual.

Congress and Media

The volume of congress makes it most difficult to cover. The press follows leaders, committee chairs, local congressmen as needed. The press does play up the conflict between party leaders and they tend to garner the attention. This impacts public perception.

Parties differ from Interest Groups in that...

Their goal is to win in order to exercise power. Interest groups fund candidates, parties run candidates.

Barriers to Third Party Success

Their points of view tend to fall under the umbrella of one or both of the major parties values. This also occurs due to the winner take all system.

Incumbency Advantage Casework

There is a close link between constituent service and reelection. Members of Congress are able to win support by performing casework for their constituents and by bringing home money and jobs ("pork") for their district. Casework consists of helping individual constituents, often by cutting through bureaucratic red tape. Pork is legislation that allows representatives to bring money and jobs to their district. Incumbents often sit on committees that enable them to earmark or designate specific projects for their district. Pork helps representatives earn a reputation for service to their district.

Function of American Interest Groups

They enhance political participation (however not all organized interests are political). They motivate people to work toward a common goal. Create legislation through iron triangles.

The framers chose an indirect democracy for the US because...

They were afraid of a tyrant, and because they believed that American citizens were not educated enough to make their own political decisions. Also because the feared mob rule and wanted to counteract factions.

Court of appeals

Thirteen in total, eleven are divided among the states. 12 is restricted for federal regulatory commissions. 1 is for patents. Rotating panel of three judges. Rullings do not need to be unanimous. Appellate jurisdiction only. There is no new testimony all they do is review cases from the lower federal district court. Cases can be civil or criminal in nature. They correct errors of law and decision (not innocent or guilty).

Newspapers

Today are still locally based. New York Times and The Washington Post have a national readership that makes them an important force in policy making.

Speaker of the House

Top leadership position in the House of Representatives. Is a member of and selected by the Majority Party. Leader of the rules committee, appoints members of his party to committees, directs business on the floor, recognizes those who wish to speak on the floor, large influence on which bills go to which committee. Position is currently held by Paul Ryan.

Framers intent for the courts

Treated as an afterthought. This is why Article III has the least detail. The court wasn't seen as powerful to them.

Slander

Untrue spoken words of defamation.

Libel

Untrue written words of defamation. Easier to prove. Example/ NY Times vs Sullivan.

Plessy vs. Ferguson

Upheld state racial segregation laws for public facilities under the doctrine of "separate but equal".

Runoff Primary

Used to see if an incumbent and someone else challenges them, which one will be the candidate for congress.

Litigation

Using the courts to get what interest groups want through lawsuits. Ex/ Brown vs. Board of Ed with the NAACP in the 1950's.

Pocket veto

Veto of a bill without a presidential signature by letting the bill expire when congress when congress adjourns during the 10 day period needed to sign a bill.

President of the Senate

Vice President of the US. Breaks ties in the Senate.

Parties make it easier for...

Voters to form groups that will vote in certain ways.

Retrospective Judgement

Voting and judgement based on past performance.

Candidate Centered Politics

Voting for person not party.

Ticket Splitting

Voting one democrat and one republican on the same ballot. Voting for candidates of different parties and signals distrust of both parties. Indicates a growth candidate centered politics.

Catholic Political Opinion

Want funding for parochial schools.

Old People Political Opinion

Want medicare and social security.

Virginia plan

Wanted a strong central government. Wanted an independent executive, judiciary branches, and a bicameral legislature based on population. Liked by bigger states. Created by James Madison.

Federalists

Wanted the Constitution ratified. James Madison, Alexander Hamilton, and John Jay.

Foreign Policy-Post September 11th

War on terror.

Washington's Belief on Political Parties

Warned against sectionalism and "foreign entanglements". Envisioned a government with enough points of influence to make parties unnecessary.

Framers intent for the electoral college

Was designed to keep the president from being chosen by mob rule. They did not the american public. They wanted states to vote for their favorite sons. It was designed to work without parties.

Radio

Was the first to broadcast presidential debates (1920). Became an effective tool for receiving/disseminating information. FDR and his Fireside Chats helped get people to trust his New Deal would get us out of the Great Depression, WWII. Even with television, radio still remains the most effective too through talk radio in the car and network news like NPR.

US vs. Nixon

Watergate. USSC ruled that the president must obey the subpoena and produce the tapes and documents.

Pre-amble

We the People of the United States, in Order to form a more perfect Union, establish Justice, insure domestic Tranquility, provide for the common defense, promote the general Welfare, and secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America.

General Elections

When winners of party primaries run against their opposition. State/district is senate and house. National is presidential.

Parties in Congress

Where parties are most visible. Congressional party leaders enforce party discipline among members. Parties control who gets what job in congress.

Majority opinion

Where the most justices agree. Outlines the reasoning as to why the USSC made the decision they did.

Initiative

Where the public generates enough signatures about an issue to get it put on a ballot for the people to vote on.

Party polarization

Where there is an increase in interparty differences between one party and another. One party will always oppose the policy of the other.

Circular model

White House is arranged so there is more direct contact with the president and staff members. Ideas are not filtered through one or two top aides. Allows for better access. Some feel it promotes chaos and the president's time is not well used. Example/ George Washington and Obama.

Pyramid model

White house is arranged so assistants report through a hierarchy of other aids. Ideas are filtered to the president. More efficient use of the president's time. People feel it isolates and insulates the president and gives more power to top officials who might abuse it. Example/ Nixon and George W. Bush.

Religion Political Socialization

White protestants tend to be republican. Jewish and Catholic people tend to be democrat.

Demographics With Higher Voter Turnout

White, older, college educated, professional job holders.

Inter-agency councils

Working groups created to facilitate coordination of policy making and implementation across a host of governmental agencies. Example/ US inter-agency council on homelessness.

Thomas Jefferson

Wrote the declaration of independence. Anti-federalist.

Limited Response options

Yes and no questions may not be sufficient to measure the temperature of the public.