American Government
The Rehabilitation Act - Section 504
"No otherwise qualified handicapped individual in the US shall, solely by reason of his handicap, be excluded from the participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any program or activity receiving Federal financial assistance" famously became the first civil rights law that proposed equal protection under the law for American's with disabilities.
Successful third party presidential candidates
- 1892 James Weaver - 1912 Theodore Roosevelt -1948 Strom Thurmond -1968 George Wallace -1992 Ross Perot
Bureaucrat facts
- 4 million work for the US federal bureaucracy -1 one in 10 Americans are part of the federal bureaucracy - The US military makes up and is supported by a large part of the federal bureaucracy -Only 10% work in Washington DC - Most are highly trained and knowledgeable about their work
Nonparticipation is usually due to these attitudes:
- Contentment, which means the person is satisfied with the status quo and might participate in the future - Apathy, the person either doesn't know much about the issues or doesn't care enough about the issues to make the effort to vote. - Alienation, the person feels that his or her vote doesn't matter or opinion doesn't count.
Indirect strategies that interest groups use
- Generating public pressure - Using constituents as lobbyists - Public protest demonstrations
Direct strategies that interest group use
- Lobbying techniques - Rating gov't officials - Offering campaign assistance - Offering campaign assistance
Post Cold War policies
- Maintenance of US global dominance (US global hegemony) - Pursuit of free trade and development of international economic institutions, such as the World Trade Organization - Encouraging the spread of democracy and peace - use of military troops and equipment to support humanitarian missions, such as providing aid and support to victims of natural disasters - punishing and isolating rouge states, like North Korea and Iran, who are perceived to be violating international law and threaten international peace and stability.
Factors that influence public opinion
- Politician affect public opinion by actively campaigning for public support for particular political issues and causes. - News media affect public opinion through coverage of political events. - Socioeconomic status affects public opinion because a person's status shapes how they perceive certain political matters, like tax cuts or healthcare benefits. -Major world events, such as war on economic downturn, affect public opinion on a variety of matters, such as dependency on foreign oil and support of the president. - Opinion leaders are often news commentators, columnists, bloggers, or prominent community members who openly and publicly express their political opinions. They affect public opinion by influencing others to view things the way they do.
How is public opinion measured?
- Public opinion polls - Polling organizations - Gallup Organizations
National forces that influence congressional elections
- State of the national economy - Evaluation of the president's performance -Public's tendency to learn moderate or conservative.
Attempts to reform bureaucracy
- Sunshine laws - make sure the bureaucratic agencies are open to public knowledge and scrutiny by requiring regular meetings. curb red tape -Sunset provisions - set time limit on bureaucratic programs to ensure that only necessary, successful programs continue, avoiding imperialism - Privatization - reassigns some gov't tasks to private agencies and can help reduce duplication -Reorganization - involves moving bureaucratic agencies around and redefining their functions for greater efficiency to avoid duplication and conflict -Accountability laws - help the gov't make sure that the bureaucracy gets its work done correctly. reduce red tape and waste
Institutional barriers in the presidential election include:
- difficulty with registration - difficulty with absentee voting -Weekday voting
Factors that affect a person's political socialization
- family, social and economic classes, education, and peer groups. Also mass media and key world events affect your political values
Environmental policy
- most politicians support strong environmental policies - has become deeply attached to partisan divides - partisanship focuses heavily on debates of regulation vs. free enterprise, as well as sources of energy
Minimum requirements to run for Congress
-A candidate for the United States Senate must be 30 years of age, a citizen of the United States for 9 years and an inhabitant of the state that he is elected from at the time of the election A candidate for the House of Representatives must be 25 years of age, a citizen of the United States for 7 years and an inhabitant of the state that he is elected from at the time of the election.
New media is wide-ranging and offers:
-Immediate connection, allows protests or political gathers to be scheduled last minute -News you can choose, meaning the internet allows voters to look at the sources and stories -Sharing, allows voters to distribute news themselves -Liking -Donating
Parliament
-Members are chosen by the major political party to serve, and the choice is based mainly on the fact that they are a member of the major political party. -Decisions are usually made based on what the political party wants, not based on an independent point of view. -Lawmaking is a short process that requires a simple majority vote.
Congress
-Members are voted in based more on their personal attributes and goals for the time they are serving than based on political party affiliation. -Members make decisions based on their own individual viewpoints, not based on what the political party wants. -Lawmaking is a lengthy process involving various steps.
Influencers of an election
-National issues - Party identification - Campaign Strategy
Public Educator role
-Report on the development of election campaigns -Monitor vote counting -Report election results -Broadcast concession speeches -Provide up-to-date electoral vote tallies
How the Fed uses Monetary Policy
1. Buying U.S. treasury bonds on the open market 2. Changing the reserve requirement in banks 3. Changing the discount rate
Types of Interest Groups
1. Economic Interest Groups 2. Public Interest Groups 3. Foreign gov't interest groups
Three mechanisms that have led our two major political parties:
1. Realignment 2. Dealignment 3. Tipping
What do political parties do?
1. Recruit candidates for public office 2. gather volunteers to help register voters as well as organize and run the election day of voting. 3. present alternative policies to the electorate, called the political platform. 4.put forth its own policies and oppose the winning party, when appropriate, if the party did not win an elected position.
3 cash assistance programs
1. Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) - TANF is administered by each state with money provided by the federal government. TANF is not an entitlement, like social security or Medicare.; 5 year limit 2. Supplemental Security Income (SSI) - you don't have to have previously worked to qualify. Instead, an individual generally must either be 65 or older, blind, or disabled. Of course, you must have limited income and financial assets as well. 3. The Earned Income Credit (EIC) - the federal government gives them a refundable tax credit for each dollar they earn in income up to a certain maximum amount, which is paid to them as an income tax refund. The credit is phased out for people who earn above a certain income threshold. In 2013, the maximum credit was $6,044 for a family with three or more children.
How do third parties come into existence?
1. They can be founded from scratch by individuals or groups who are committed to a particular interest, issue or ideology 2. can form because they have split off from one of the major parties when a group becomes dissatisfied with the majority party's policies (splinter parties)
Why form interest groups
1. response to massive changes within a particular historical era (progressive era 1900 and 1920s) due to a communications revolution the gov't attempt to regulate business activity 2. disturbance theory
Three types of incentive interest groups rely
1. solidary incentive 2. material incentive 3. purposive incentive
Four Board Periods
1. the creation of parties from 1789 to 1816. 2. the emergence of Democrats and Whigs from Andrew Jackson's presidency to just before the Civil War (1828 - 1860). 3. the New Deal period. 4. The modern period, from approximately 1968 to the present.
Bureaucracies have 4 key characteristics
1.) A clear hierarchy - a firm chain of command 2.) Specialization - everyone has a specific job to do and often becomes an expert at it 3.) A division of labor - nearly every task is broken down into its component parts, and different people work on different parts of the task.
Six main factors leading to the rise of the permanent campaign
1.) Elections 2.) Party Troubles 3.) The Rise of Primary Elections 4.) In the Public Eye 5.) Interest Groups 6.) The Latest Poll
Functions of bureaucracy
1.) Implements the laws and policies made by elected officials. 2.) Provides necessary administrative functions, like conducting examinations, issuing permits and licenses, and collecting fees 3.) Regulates various gov't activities.
Problems with Bureaucracy
1.) Red Tape 2.) Conflict 3.) Duplication 4.) Imperialism 5.) Waste
President can rein in the bureaucracy by:
1.) appointments - he is authorized to appoint 4,000 higher-level bureaucrats, including cabinet secretaries, top officials in bureaucratic agencies, and some assistants. 2.) reorganization - the president can reorganize bureaucratic agencies and departments s he sees fit. - rid duplication, cut down on conflict and waste 3.) Office of Management and Budget
The Office of Management and Budget (OMB) is responsible for 5 primary activities
1.) develops and executes the gov'ts budget 2.) manages executive agencies and departments and their finances 3.) it coordinates and reviews federal policies and regulations to make sure they are in line with the president's goals 4.) assists executive agencies in communicating and coordinating with the legislature 5.) passes on and carries out presidential orders.
Congress keeps an eye on bureaucracy by
1.) establishes bureaucratic agencies and departments - limit their numbers and functions 2.) creates bureaucratic budget and can limit how much money the bureaucracy receives 3.) appropriates funds to the bureaucracy 4.) has the power to confirm the president's bureaucratic appointments, making sure the appointee is qualified for the job 5.) puts its stamp of approval or rejection on new bureaucratic programs or shifts in focus 6.) conducts investigations when the bureaucracy is accused or suspected of wrongdoing 7.) can reprimand bureaucratic officials as necessary. Congress also has the ability to pass laws that affect bureaucratic procedures.
Three reconstruction-era amendments focused on equality
1.) the 13th Amendment bans slavery 2.) the 14th Amendment guarantees equal rights of citizenship to all Americans and was geared toward protecting the rights of former slaves The 15th Amendment protects citizens from voting rights and specifically protects the voting rights of former slaves and other minorities.
Three ways in which Congress retains power
1.) there are powers that Congress maintains that were specifically written into the Constitution 2.) there are powers that have been granted to Congress after the Constitution was created by way of amendments to the Constitution 3.) there are powers that are implied by different clauses in the Constitution
Statement of organization
10 days after the statement of candidacy is filed. details the organization and members.
Electoral College
12th amendment resulted from a compromise between the convention's delegates. an indirect system for electing the US president using electoral college votes. Its goal is to divide the power of selection between Congress and the people and allow a balance between federal and state powers in keeping with federalism.
Declaration of Independence
1776 Announced the American colonies to be independent and sovereign states. The colonies are no longer under Great Britain. The colonies each claimed all rights that other independent nations enjoyed, such as declaring war and establishing their own system of commerce. Colonist felt they should not be taxed by Great Britain
Treaty of Paris
1783 officially ended the war the Revolutionary War officially ended, and Great Britain finally recognized the US as an independent nation.
Supreme Court Decisions
1819 McCulloch v. Maryland 1824 Gibbons v. Ogden
US v. Cruikshank
1876 the Supreme Court ruled the 2nd amendment was applicable only to the federal gov't. This meant that the federal gov't not the state gov't could not infringe on any individuals' right to own and possess a gun.
Cooperative federalism
1901 to 1960 saw federal and state gov't working together to address societal and economic problems occurring at all levels of gov't.
Nineteenth Amandment
1920 guaranteeing women the right to vote
US v. Miller
1939 the Supreme court ruled that the federal and state gov't could limit any weapon types not having a reasonable relationship to the preservation of a well-regulated militia.
Great Society
1960s - Lyndon Johnson a plan to fight poverty and channel millions of dollars into bureaucratic agencies and programs that promote transportation, education, civil rights, healthcare, and more. Medicare, Head Start, Office of Economic Opportunity
Griswold v. Connecticut
1965 the Supreme court ruled that several amendments to the Bill of Rights imply a right to privacy. paved the way for future civil liberty cases, such as those on abortion and same-sex marriage.
New Federalism
1970s Allows the state to reclaim some power while recognizing the federal gov't as the highest power. Its a response to the argument that the federal gov't grew too powerful and overshadowed many of the responsibilities originally reserved for states. Richard Nixon was the first US president to openly support 1969 - 1974 Mostly associated with Ronal Reagan's years 1981 to 1989 With new federalism, the federal government provides large block grants, or blocks of money, to the states to be used for social programs. Comes under scrutiny for leaving too much power to the states
Contemporary Era
1970s to modern day has seen much partisanship or voting in line with one's political party
Federal Election Campaign Act
1971 established the Federal Election Commission, which imposed restrictions on monetary contributions by individuals, parties, and political action committees to candidates running for Congress.
Furman v. Georgia
1972 the court ruled all states' death penalty statutes to be unconstitutional. violation of the 8th amendment of cruel and unusual punishment
Devolution Programs
1996 welfare reform - allow the states to spend federal welfare grants at their discretion. 1970 The environmental protection agency was created to better protect human health and the environment. Obama's clean power plan
Congress (Article I)
2 houses for congress 1.) House of Representatives 2.) Senate Purpose is to make laws raises moneys (taxes) pays US debts provides for defense (maintain the military)
Bipartisan Campaign Reform Act
2002 prohibits soft money and large contributions to national party organizations
District of Columbia v. Heller
2008 ruled the individual expressly holds the right to possess and carry firearms.
McDonald v. Chicago
2010 held that the 14th amendment does in fact apply the 2nd amendment to the states to the same extent that the 2nd amendment to the states to the same extent that the 2nd amendment applies to the federal gov't. it was firmly decided that individuals were also protected from unnecessary state interference with their right to bear arms as the previously recognized protection from federal gov't interference.
House of Representatives Minimum requirements
25 years old A Citizen of the US for 7 year An inhabitant of the state he is elected from
How many branches of the Gov't are established by the US constitutuion
3
Iran Hostage Crisis
66 Americans were abducted from the US Embassy in Tehran and held against their will for 444 days.
Fairness Doctrine
A FCC rule that stated that a broadcaster who aired a controversial program had to provide time to also air opposing views.
Monarchy
A king or queen holds supreme power Inherit thrones
The business cycle
A pattern of economic fluctuations. has two phases: expansion and recession (sometimes called contraction) and two turning points which economists refer to as a peak and a trough The National Bureau of Economic Research (NBER) identifies and dates business cycles and turning points. Lasts about 53 months
Tipping
A phenomenon that occurs when a group that is becoming more numerous over time grows large enough to change the political balance in an area.
Caucuses
A state gathering of political party members in order to select a candidate for office. Used to determine a political party's presidential nominee. A handful of states including Iowa and Maine use these Caucus participants are mostly high-level political party leaders who are chosen in hopes that they will best represent the wants and needs of the other party members. The participants meet in person and debate the merits of each candidate before voting to select a presidential nominee.
Minority Groups
African American, women In the early years some religious groups, such as Catholics and Jewish people were denied the right to vote. Some cultures were not able to obtain housing and employment - including the Irish
Gallup Organization
An American company that publishes timely public opinion research on a multitude of topics through the use of the Gallup Poll. The Gallup Poll was first used in 1935 and routinely measures public opinion and attitudes on various political, social, and economic issues. Uses samples of the population rather than trying to speak to everyone.
Impeach
Article I of Congress allows to permanently remove from office, members of the judicial branch. Impeachment is allowed for the conviction of treason, bribery, or other high crimes and misdemeanors. The House of Representatives has the exclusive power of impeachment.
Interest group historical events
Broad economic changes changing governmental activity social and reform movements
History of Interest Groups
Can be traced back to 1770s with the formation of pro-independence groups and have continued to spring up. -Gov't sponsored activities, such as the increase of anti-slavery groups of the 1830s and 1840s -Broad economic developments, including the formation of trade, labor and business organizations the 1860s through the 1890s -Social and reform movements, which included the environmental, consumer, and political-reform organizations of the 1960s and 70s
Pluralism
Claims that political power should be held by groups. Citizens must join groups like unions, professional associations, lobbies, interest groups, and coalitions to influence policies and laws and to exercise their political power. These groups present their ideas to lawmakers, compete for attention, negotiate and compromise on solutions, and allow the majority of people to remain on the fringe of political life.
political scandal
Clinton's involvement in an inappropriate relationship with a 22 year old intern. Is a form of political corruptions, in which politicians or gov't officials are accused of engaging in illegal, corrupt, or unethical behavior.
oversight
Congress' subcommittees collect information about bureaucratic agencies and their performance from agencies themselves, from interest groups, and from constituents. Then they review budget and personnel issues, investigate complaints, and sometimes hold public hearings when necessary
Goal of US Foreign Policy
Containment of the spread of communism, and thereby the influence of the USSR by supporting govt's or rebel groups that opposed communism. Accomplished by supplying aid, weapons and sometimes troops Deterring nuclear war through the policy of Mutual Assured Destruction (MAD) where any nuclear attack would be met with a counter attack of a magnitude ensuring the complete destruction. Support of free trade and international economic institutions, such as the International Monetary Fund, the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT) and the World Bank.
Congressional Union
Created in 1913 by Alice Paul and Lucy Burns had the goal of working towards a federal amendment to give women the right to vote. The name changed to the National Women's Party.
Separation of powers
Divides the gov't into three branches, each with its own purpose and functions. The legislative branch, made up of the Senate and the House of Representatives, makes the laws; the executive branch, led b the president, carries out the laws; and the judicial branch, led by the president, carries out the laws; and the judicial branch, headed by the Supreme Court, interprets the laws.
Federal Communications Act
Enacted in 1934 Established the Federal Communications Commission, which continues to manage the broadcast media, and our airwaves
Office of Management and Budget
Established in 1939 performs the critical task of implementing the president's policies throughout the executive branch an into every area of the gov't. is essentially the president's mouthpiece and assistant in financial matters and in making sure that the executive branch runs smoothly and effectively and communicates well with the rest of the government. It is responsible directly to the president.
Equal Time Rule
FCC uses this rule to ensure that broadcasters provide an opportunity for equal broadcast time to all official candidates running for a particular office.
Right of Rebuttal
FCC uses this to ensure that broadcasters provide candidates with an opportunity to respond to criticism made against them.
James Madison
Father of the Constitution
Bill of Rights
First 10 constitutional amendments
New Deal
Franklin D Roosevelt aggressive legislation implementing several programs and policies geared toward reviving the economy. Increased regulation of banking and commerce and added social programs to alleviate poverty. From 1937 to 1938
Amendment VIII
Freedom from excessive bail, cruel and unusual punishments.
Amendment IV
Freedom from unreasonable searches and seizure.
Amendment I
Freedom of Religion, Speech, and Press, Assembly
negative image
George Bush is an example, looking bewildered at a supermarket checkout. left a damaging view, off-putting impression he was too old, and could not related to everyday Americans
Interstate Commerce Commission Federal Trade Commission Securities and Exchange Commission
Government oversight agencies that oversee gov't regulation of business
Tenth Amendment
Helps states Gives the states all powers not delegated to the national gov't or specifically denied to the states. Under federalism, the states can regulate whatever is left over.
Office of Management and Budget
Helps the president keep a close eye on the bureaucracy. Frequently monitors and evaluates the performance of various agencies and departments, taking a close look at their efficiency, growth, budgets, and organization. Based on the Office's recommendations, the president makes decisions about budget allocations, appointments, and reorganization.
expansion
In an expansion, really GDP is positive and inflation and unemployment tend to be low. Average length is 35 months
campaign election funding
Individuals Political Action Committees, or PACs 527 groups
Founding Fathers of Federalism
James Madison Alexander Hamilton Both argued for strong central gov't in a series of essays call The Federalist or "Publius.
presidential job approval rating
John F Kennedy was the most adored and admired president with a 70% average rating This approval was established in 1930s. It is based on teh Gallup poll, and designed to gauge public support for the president during that president's term in office.
US v. Lopez
Lopez was charged with carrying a handgun to school in violation of the federal Gun Free School Zones Act of 1990. The Court ruled that the federal government had no authority to regulate firearms near local schools and the Act was unconstitutional because the local possession of a firearm didn't affect interstate commerce. Here, you can see the Court shifted toward states' rights
Federalism
Makes sure that the national gov't shares certain powers with the states.
Law of Large Groups and Logic of Collective Action
Mancur Olson states that the larger the group, the further it will fall short of providing an optimal amount of a collective good.
legislations that enacted important labor benefits:
National Labor Relations Act o 1935 Fair Labor Standards Act Walsh Healey Act
Democratic and Republican parties
National party level that oversees the state and local party levels. The national party level does not strictly control the state and local party levels, it does establish the ideals and positions that all levels of the party supports - Party Platform
New federalism
Nixon and Reagan Allows the states to reclaim some power while recognizing the federal gov't as the highest governmental power.
Supreme Court
No matter the decision of the appellate court, either party can appeal an issue to the Supreme Court. is the court of last resort or highest court for the state. operates using a panel of judges. usually known as justices. the justices may choose whether or nor to hear an issue,
Nobelston
Oligarchy
Ratification
Once the bill passes both houses, the proposed amendment goes to the individual states for their consideration. (Does not need president's signature). The proposed amendment passes directly tot he states. To be ratified, three-fourths of the state legislatures must approve the proposed amendment. (method is used in almost all current amendments.) Only the 21st amendment repealing prohibition was ratified through ratifying conventions
Dictatorship
One leader rules the absolute power and little restraint, and often violence. A dictator usually does not inherit his position nor is her elected to it. Not elected into position; not inherited; used army to gain control.
National Convention
One of the most important parts of the national party organization is a meeting that is held every 4 years by each major party to select presidential and vice presidential candidates, to write a platform, to choose a national committee, and to conduct party business.
treaty power
Power granted by the US constitution. This power comes from the Constitution's Treaty Clause and is the president's authority to negotiate international treaties with other nations.
Legitimacy
Refers to citizens' belief that their leaders have the right to exercise power and authority; it is the acceptance of the government by the governed.
Public Decency Standards
Restricts the use of obscene, indecent or profane programming. - To broadcast obscene programming at any time - To broadcast indecent programming during certain hours - To broadcast profane language during certain hours.
Senate
Senators are elected every six years must be at least 30 years old Have been a US citizen for 9 years Must reside in the state for which they are chosen VP of the US is the president of the Senate (has no vote unless there's a tie) Holds the trial if the House chooses to impeach
Government
Sets rules for a society, helps it members relate to one another and to others, and keeps it running smoothly, securely, and peacefully. 1.) The group of people who control and make decisions for a county 2.) A particular system used for controlling a country, state, etc. 3.) The process or manner of controlling a county, state, etc.
Direct Techniques
Some of the direct interactions that a lobbyist might have with a government official include private meetings, testifying at committee and agency meetings, consulting on legislation drafts, and providing political information to legislators on proposed bills. Form a coalition with other groups concerned about the same legislation. Members of such a coalition share expenses and multiply the influence of their individual groups by combining their efforts. campaign assistance. Assistance can come in a number of forms. Interest groups can donate money, provide volunteer workers for helping with an election campaign, and/or give their endorsement to a candidate for election or re-election. Direct strategies include lobbying techniques, rating government officials, building alliances, and offering campaign assistance.
Republican
South, Rocky Mountain states, and great plains; less minority support; higher income earners; more support from men; tend to be conservative
Federalism
The Framers developed federalism because they wanted a more centralized gov't while allowing the states to continue to govern most matters themselves. Also wished to prevent the national gov't from exercising too much power of the people.
Plessy v. Ferguson
The US Supreme Court case that memorialized the separate but equal doctrine, was decided in 1896. Upheld laws that enforced segregation in school, modes of transportation and commercial establishments. The Supreme Court decided that this was not covered under the guise of the Equal Protection Clause. This segregation, or separation, was constitutional so long as both were equal.
Appointment Clause
The US constitution Article II provides the president with appointment power. This clause give the executive branch the exclusive power to select certain federal officials. Sets out the process by which the president may make appointments.
Limited Gov't
The US gov't has only those powers the people have specifically authorized. Power is given by the people.
Political Power
The ability held by individuals and groups in a society that allows them to create and enforce policies for the community and manage public resources.
Power
The ability to influence and direct the behavior of other people and guide the course and outcome of events.
Franklin Roosevelt
The final evolution of the two-party political system happened during his presidential term
Congressional District
The job of each state is to determine the boundaries of each geographical areas within the state of approximately equal population
Article III
The judicial branch of gov't Interprets laws Made up of the Supreme Court and the lower federal courts.
Prime minister
The official head of gov't and also serves with his cabinet members of the legislature. Selected by the majority party
Two-party system
The system in the US in which only two parties have a reasonable chance of winning.
Divine Realm - Holiness Solomon
Theocracy
Legislative power
These powers come from Article II and are the president's authority to veto bills and propose new legislation. Congress has the exclusive power to introduce and pass federal legislation. However, the president must approve a bill by signing it into law before that legislation can take effect.
Separation of Church and State Doctrine
This doctrine has been divided into two different clauses: the Establishment Clause and the free Exercise Clause. Encompassed in the 1st Amendment. It represents that Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion or prohibiting the free exercise thereof.
Lobbying
Used by interest groups an attempt to influence a politician's decisions
Bill of Rights
Very important Every American enjoys the protections laid out by the founders, and the Constitution would never have been signed without these first amendments.
Civil War
War between the states over slavery and concerns over federalism Several southern states seceded, forming the confederacy - arguing that the state gov't could legally make their own laws regarding slavery and that they didn't have to abide by federal laws on that matter.
Secession
When Abraham Lincoln was elected as the first Republican president, the South chose to rebel rather than accept the election results. so the southern states declared independence or secession and the North went to war to force them back into the union
Joint sessions
When both the Senate and the House of Representatives meet together. They are mainly scheduled for counting electoral votes after an election for a new president of the US or during the president's State of the Union Address to the nation.
Pocket veto
When the bills is not signed by the president and Congress adjourns within the ten days, then it does not become a law
Buying and Selling US Treasury Bonds
When you buy a US treasury bond, you are lending money to the federal gov't. When the Fed buys these bonds, it gives the federal gov't money that it can use to help the economy by providing things like healthcare, public works projects, and educational initiatives.
Freedom of Information Act
a Federal law that gives you the right to access information from the federal gov't.
Brown v. Board of Education of Topeka, Kansas
a US Supreme Court case that ended segregation in schools, was decided in 1954. Sit-ins and demonstrations began leading to desegregated restaurants and buses.
Brown v. Board of Education of Topeka Kansas
a US Supreme Court case that held that race-based segregation of children into separate but equal public schools violates the Equal Protection Clause of the 14th Amendment and is unconstitutional
Independent candidate
a candidate without political party affiliation this candidate must fie an affidavit with the sate indicating their desire to become a candidate on the ballot
Decennial Census
a census taken every ten years, determines how many seats the state will have. After the results of the census are determined, the districts will be reapportioned according to what the population of the state is at the time.
Freedom of Speech
a civil liberty guaranteed to us by the 1st amendment. Gives us the right to express ourselves and protest our gov't or anything we please without fear of punishment. Allows Catholics and Muslims to worship down the street from one another; allows the press to print editorials; entitles a child the right not to say the pledge of allegiance.
Dealignment
a decline in party loyalties that reduces long-term party commitment. Almost always weakens a political party.
Federalism
a division of power between the federal gov't and the individual state gov'ts.
State constitution
a document that lays down governmental structure, political processes, and limitations on the use of power by state.
tax credit
a dollar-for-dollar subtraction off a tax bill's total.
Federal Communications Commission (FCC)
a federal gov't agency responsible for regulating the public airwaves. issues licenses and is in charge of controlling everything that uses the airwaves. Serves several roles: 1.) the FCC polices the content of the airwaves 2.) has authority to fine broadcasters, or even revoke broadcasting licenses for violating the FCC's Public Decency Standards.
Mandates
a federal regulation that states must follow. Mandates are another common way that the federal gov't controls state gov'ts. states must follow federal mandates even in situations where the states constitutionally make their own laws.
Runoff primaries
a few states hold a second primary between the two candidates with the most votes
soft money
a form of unregulated contribution made to a national political party
National party convention
a formal gathering of all party delegates from all states, typically held the summer before a presidential election.
Sovereign Nation
a free and independent country
Rational choice theory
a general principle that assumes people make logical decisions that provide them with the greatest benefit and are in their best self-interest. voting is illogical and irrational behavior because it doesn't provide a sufficient benefit.
Public's tendency to learn moderate or conservative
a general rule can influence congressional elections.
Democracy
a gov't run by the people through elected representatives. The citizens of the US elect the gov't officials, and the officials then exercise the governmental power.
Monarchy
a government run by a member or members of a royal family.
Political Party
a group of dedicated people who come together to win elections, operated the gov't and determine public policy.
Muckrakers
a group of journalists who exposed journalists injustices and political corruption in the late 19th and 20th centuries. Exposed the watergate scandal
Political party
a group of people who organize to win elections, operate the gov't and determine public policy a political party may blur their positions on issues or may have a wide array of opinions on issues so that they can seem attractive to the greatest number of voters. because of their nature and composition, must put forth their political viewpoints based on the majority and can afford to do so because they put forth opinions on such a wide variety of topics. Thus, a political party can have some differences of opinion from within the party without changing its identity.
Interest group
a group of people who share common goals and who actively try to influence policymakers do not want to operate the gov't and do not put forth political candidates tend to sharpen issues in an attempt to promote a position on a specific issue, such as gun control or agriculture. are formed around a single issue, they cannot change their official position without changing who they are.
Supremacy Clause
a key component of federalism. Says that the federal gov'ts authority and laws take precedence over state laws
Permanent Campaign
a key feature of the modern form of American democracy.
Pendleton Act of 1883
a law that replaces the spoils system with a selection process based on merit. office seeker now have to prove that they are qualified for their desired jobs by taking examinations and demonstrating their skills and competence.
Internet
a means of connecting a computer to any other computer anywhere in the world. It uses a global network made from dedicated routers and servers.
Socioeconomic status
a measure of an individual's or family's economic and social position based on education, income and occupation. Shapes our political views.
Bias by selection of sources
a media outlet leaves out sources that support an opposing point of view.
price floor
a minimum amount that a product could be sold for. Price floors are minimum prices set by the government for certain commodities and services that it believes are being sold in an unfair market with too low of a price, and thus, their producers deserve some assistance.
New Deal
a plan to put Americans back to work and steady the nation's financial situation. 1930's Franklin Delano Roosevelt and WWII Works Progress Administration and the Civilian Conservation Corp meet a pressing need for jobs Social Security Administration, Federal Trade Commission, and the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation
Affirmative Action
a policy that seeks to provide equal opportunities in education and employment to people that are members of a historically discriminated class, such as racial minorities and women.
Third Party
a political party other than the two major political parties (Republican and Democratic)
National convention
a political party's official meeting, where a presidential candidate will be nominated.
platform
a politician's or political party's campaign position on political issues
Primaries
a preliminary election used to determine a party's nominee for a specific office. Used by most states since 1970s. fairer and more inclusive Rules regarding primaries vary from state to state. Generally, the entire voting public can participate. Each registered voter usually gets one primary vote, so the voter must choose the party's primary in which he or she wishes to participate.
executive order
a presidential directive that either implements or interprets a federal law, a provision of the Constitution, or a treaty and is used to regulate the behavior of executive agencies and those working for them.
Realignment
a process in which a substantial group of voters switches party allegiance, producing a long-term change in the political landscape. Usually strengthens a party, or at least brings it closer in power to the competing party; can further strengthen a political party if it already is the dominant party and gains even more voters, or a less-dominant party can suddenly be boosted as it gains new voters. Happened during the presidential elections of Abraham Lincoln and Richard Nixon.
State Official
a public official that holds or is invested with a state public office. Can be elected or appointed State officials include those with high-ranking positions in the executive branch such as the governor.
deregulation
a push to repeal or reduce regulations. Usually occurs in the name of boosting economic efficiency. It can increase competition, it can sometimes lead to chaos and hurt consumers.
writ of ceriorari
a request for the Supreme Court to hear the case. Less than 1% of writs are granted
Civic duties
a responsibility a citizen has to his or her government. Civic duties are based on the principle that the citizens and the government are in partnership with one another. Some civic duties are legal duties and are legally enforceable responsibilities. These include serving on juries when summoned and paying your taxes.
Polling sample
a section of people designed to accurately reflect the overall population of a polling area.
Social Insurance
a set of insurance programs that are administered by a gov't; provide benefits upon the occurrence of certain insured events. are funded in the United States through payroll taxes The federal government's social insurance programs are authorized pursuant to the Social Security Act of 1935, as amended. Programs include Old Age, Survivors, and Disability Insurance (OASDI); Medicare; and unemployment insurance. The programs are often collectively referred to as the Social Security program
Creative Federalism
a short-lived form of federalism was introduced during the socially conscious turbulent 1960s. The federal gov't increased it's power over the states and implemented nationwide programs to combat poverty and other social ills.
Medicare
a social insurance benefit added to the Social Security program in 1965 and is funded by a payroll tax. Provides healthcare benefits for eligible participants. Most people who are at least 65 years of age are eligible. Are divided into 4 parts: 1. Medicare Part A - covers inpatient hospital care, hospice care, and skilling nursing facilities 2. Medicare Part B - is a supplemental insurance program that can be purchased by Medicare recipients to cover physical services, outpatient hospital services, lab tests, physical and occupational therapy, and home healthcare. Is funded by premiums paid by beneficiaries as well as general tax revenues. 3. Medicare Part C - (Medicare Advantage) is an optional alternative to Medicare Parts A & B. Part C involves private sector Medicare plans, such as health management organizations, preferred provider organizations, or traditional fee-for-service plans. the gov't pays a fixed fee to the plan for each Medicare participant enrolled. 4. Medicare Part D is the newest addition to Medicare. Provides coverage for prescription drugs.
Civic responsibility
a social obligation to participate
Bureaucratic rule
a society's bureaucracy holds political power through its ability to interpret and implement policies and laws. the people who really uphold political power and the ability to make decisions are those who work in society's bureaucracy.
Hopper
a special box on the side of the clerk's desk. Where it is eventually removed and assigned a number Committee votes to move forward It is reported or sent back to the chamber for debate
Political ideology
a system of beliefs and values that is used to justify political actions.
American Political Culture
a system of shared political traditions, customs, beliefs, and values describes the relationship between the American people and the American gov't. Includes several principles: Liberty Equality Democracy Individualism Nationalism Diversity
amicus curiae brief
a term meaning "friend of the court". A person or group who is not a party to a lawsuit can file an amicus brief in support of a party tot he lawsuit. These briefs allow interest groups to influence the court's decision by proving additional arguments and research.
court record
a transcript of the case from the lower court.
Judicial restraint
a type of judicial interpretation that emphasizes the limited nature of the court's power. Under this theory, the role of the courts is to interpret existing law, rather than make new law. emphasizes the limited nature of the court's power
Interest rate
an incentive for allowing the bank to use your money they offer an additional percentage on your money.
Federal Elections Commissions FEC
an independent regulatory agency that governs campaign donations and spending administrates all federal campaign finance laws; also administers the Presidential Election Campaign Fund created in 1974 The U.S. Supreme Court struck down limits the FEC placed on the corporate funding of independent political broadcasts. The court ruled that the restrictions violated free speech
Right of privacy
an individual's legal right, not explicitly provided in the US Constitution, to benefit alone and live life free from unwarranted publicity. was important for early settlers that their homes and persons be protected from unwarranted gov't intrusion (basis of the 4th amendment) and the right against self-incrimination (the 5th amendment) 9th and 14th amendment note that rights not mentioned in the Constitution should not be taken to mean that people don't have them
Interest group
an organization that pursues the interest of its members or interest related to a particular cause. Interest groups achieve their goals through many different ways, such as: Lobbying Incentives to lawmakers Economic power Protests Publicity Lawsuits
monopoly
an unfair restraint of trade. can really hurt the economy
Mass media
any means of communication intended to reach a general, public audience but much of our political information comes from television news.
Media sources
any resource that serves as a means of communicating to a general, public audience.
Open primaries
anyone of any political party affiliation may vote
Semi-open primaries
anyone of any political party affiliation may vote but can only vote in one primary
Congressional powers
appropriate money - decided how much the govt can spend and what it can spend the people's money on. oversight of executive agencies the ability to enact legislation, and perhaps most importantly, its ability to fund or deny funding to government activities.
Congressional districts
are allocated based o the National Census, or population of the state.
Hyperpluralists
are also critical of pluralism, arguing that the pluralist system is out of control. Argue that the interest group system created a relationship between them and gov't has become too cozy. argue that groups have become too powerful as the government tries to appease every conceivable interest.
Environmental issues
are among the greatest domestic debates in the US today.
federal judges
are appointed. have authority and discretion over all cases involving federal law and the US Constitution. There are 865 federal judges in the US 9 Supreme Court justices
Polling organizations
are businesses that measure public opinion through strategic methods. Gallup Organization is the best know polling organization.
Federal courts
are charged with hearing and deciding all cases dealing with a constitutional or federal statue issue.
State courts
are charged with hearing and deciding all cases dealing with state statute issues.
Work peers
are colleagues from work or people associated with your career.
Civil liberties
are defined as rights guaranteed to the people by the US Constitution and by court-made law or legislation. These liberties allow us to speak out freely against our gov't, express our opinions, organize protests and worship in whatever way we choose.
Special Forces
are highly trained units that are used to engage in unconventional missions. ie. Navy Seal team
Elitists
argue that real power is actually help by a few people, groups, and institutions. Feel that ever though there are many interest groups, their existence doesn't mean as much because not all groups have the same power. conclude that even honest lobbying is problematic because the outcomes tend to benefit a few at the expense of the many.
Disturbance Theory
argues that interest groups form in response to big changes to how society should normally operate and interest groups attempt to restore a balance. Sets two main types of disturbances 1. interest groups form in opposition to the other interest groups to counteract influence in their respective domains, which is sometimes perceived as a threat to their goals. 2. form in a response to the absence or scarcity of resources.
Majoritarianism
argues that the majority of people in any gov't or organization should have the last word in the decision-making process. Claims that political power must be distributed among the people at large, who have the right to vote directly on issues that affect them.
Contemporary Federalism
arose 1970 and continues today. is one of conflict and compromise, in which the federal gov't and state gov'ts struggle to figure out who has authority over what.
the Pregnancy Discrimination Act
banned discrimination against pregnant women in the workplace. This act prevented women from being fired when they are pregnant or from being forced to take a leave when they are willing to work.
Americans with Disabilities Act
became law in 1990 It modeled after section 504 of the Rehabilitation act is considered one of the most inclusive civil rights legislation for Americans with disabilities in US history. mandated that local, state and federal gov't and programs be accessible, that employers with 15 or more employees make "reasonable accommodations" for workers with disabilities and not discriminate against otherwise qualified workers with disabilities. Required that restaurants and public entertainment facilities make reasonable modifications to ensure that individuals with disabilities can have access. mandated access for individuals with disabilities to public transportation
Freedom of religion
began when religious settler first came over to the US from Europe. Many settlers were religious and many were not. Were motivated by the need to worship freely in their own way without interference from the state.
Redistricting
begins and each state will then determine what the boundaries of congressional districts. The goal is to make each district approximately equal.
Ideals
beliefs, values and principles that guide conduct. Fundamental principles of the US include: - Individual rights, including life, property and freedom of speech, press, political association and religion - Tolerance for different groups and different ideas -Equality before the law -Democratic representation
Progressive Ideology
believe that a significant amount of inequality today is a result of socioeconomic conditions that are out of the control of individuals, such as privilege and discrimination. winners and losers are not always determined by individual effort and choices; believe the federal government's role is important to ensure equality for all citizens regardless of their state of residence.
Repubicans
believed in a smaller, limited gov't in favor of more states' rights and were also sometimes referred to as Democratic-Republican Led by Thomas Jefferson, Washington's Secretary of Sate, and James Madison, who was a leader in the Hours of Representatives.
Old Age, Survivors, and Disability Insurance benefits (OASDI)
benefits consist of monthly payments to qualified beneficiaries who have retired upon reaching a minimum age, are disabled and unable to work, or are qualified families of decease wage earners. Benefits are not needs-based. Instead, a wage earner and her family is qualified so long as the wage earner has been employed for a minimum amount of time and made contributions to the Social Security system through payroll taxes.
Same-sex marriage
biggest civil liberty cases 2013
Electoral College
body of electors
Print media
books, newspapers, newsletters, and magazines. readership has declined in recent years. readers of print media are more politically active. Began with the Federalist Papers.
Rational-comprehensive model
breaks the policy process down into 4 distinctive phases: 1. Problem identification 2. Identification of policy options 3. selection and implementation 4. evaluation
Constitutional Convention of 1787
brought together some of the America's leading thinkers to piece together a federal form of gov't. Recognized a balance of power was needed between the states and the federal gov'.t Lasted 100 days
overregulation
businesses waste resources in an attempt to comply with regulatory policy. This cost of compliance often gets passed onto the consumer in the form of higher prices. gov'ts usually over-regulate out of a desire to increase equity or promote social justice.
Issue Networks
coalitions of groups and individuals who focus on a particular issue. Make up of members of the iron triangle, Congress, people, bureaucratic agencies, and interest groups, but they also include other gov't officials, scholars, members of the media, political activists, and others interested in the issue.
Condition of aid
compliance with a particular mandate is a prerequisite for obtaining federal money for that issue.
ANSI A117.1
conducted at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign campus in 1946. provided the proof that barriers existed for the physically handicapped and contained a standard plan for modifying programs and the physical site to provide independence for people with disabilities
Environmental policies
consist of a gov't course of action regarding regulating the manner in which we interact with the environment. Includes pollution, land use, protection of wildlife, energy, consumption of renewable and nonrenewable resources, and production and disposal of waste congress passes legislation. Must be implemented through policies and activities that are authorized by statute
Mass Media
consists of any means of communication intended to reach a general, public audience. (i.e. newspapers, magazines, flyers, billboards, automated telemarketing, radio broadcasts, tv broadcasts, internet articles, social medial posts)
State Governments
control much of our everyday dealings. Under the 10th amendment, states posses all powers not specifically granted to the federal gov't such as: drivers licenses, vehicle registration, driver's records, birth certificates, death certificates, unemployment compensation, licensing for professionals.
monetary policy
controlling the growth rate of the money supply
Federal Reserve
controls the US money is the nation's central bank, has total control over the money supply. Is an independent body.
Federal Courts
courts of limited jurisdiction. They can only hear cases authorized by the US Constitution or federal statutes. US Supreme Court The federal courts decide cases involving federalism. These courts settle disputes regarding which gov't system, federal or state, controls an issue. Ex. Brown v. Board of Education - supreme court ended segregation in public schools.
Freedom of speech, press, and assembly
defined as the general freedom of the individual and the press to gather together freely and express opinions. Began when the settlers first came to the US from Europe. Encompassed in the 1st Amendment. It represents that "Congress shall make no law...abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the gov't for a redress of grievances". Applied under the 14th amendment.
Implied powers
derived from the Necessary and Proper Clause of the Constitution.
National Committee
directs and coordinates party activities during the 4 years in between national conventions. Are typically comprised of men and women from each state as well as other state-level leaders, such as governors, mayors, and members of Congress.
Multiculturalism
diverse cultural environment
Cold war
does not involve direct warfare between the two countries, but instead relies upon threats, propaganda and indirect conflict brought through support of client states
school vouchers
either a cash grant or a tax credit that parents can use t select a private elementary or secondary school of their choice for their kids as an alternative to public school system.
15th Amendment
ensured that a person's race, color or history and a slave couldn't be used to keep that person from voting
Article V (amending the Constitution)
establishes the amending process for the constitution. The proposal of an amendment can be done by 2/3 majority vote in both the House and the Senate. For ratification, the amendment needs to be approved by 3/4 majority of the state legislatures.
Article IV (relationship of the states and admitting new states)
establishes the relationship between states and the federal gov't. States have to honor the laws of other states.
Federalists
favored strong and active national gov't and were led by Secretary of the Treasury Alexander Hamilton and supported by Vice President John Adams
Creative Federalism
favors the federal gov't by creating a dependency on the federal gov't. because states depended on federal financial grants, creative federalism weakened state powers and strengthened federal powers, used through 1960's
Supremacy Clause
federal laws will usually supersede state laws.. states that the Constitution and federal laws are the Supreme Law of the Land. A guarantee that no laws will interfere with the goals of the Constitution Found in Article VI, Section 2 Exemplified in the famous 1819 Supreme Court case of McCulloch v. Maryland - held that Maryland could NOT constitutionally tax the operations of the Bank of the US, since that was a federal power.
Federal Regulation of Lobbying Act of 1946
first attempt to check the activities of interest groups. Was largely ineffectual. Attempted to track the activities of lobbyists by having them register with the federal gov't.
Campaign finance committees
formal groups with the political party whose job is to raise and donate money to get candidates elected or reelected, but these committees are limited in how they engage in their electioneering because they do not want to alienate supports of their party. they may blur their positions on a number of issues so that they appeal to as many supporters as possible, but their main goal is to get that person elected to strengthen their control on the government.
Planned Parenthood Federation of America
formerly the American Birth Control League, focused on the health and reproductive rights of women. supported the opening of the first women's birth control clinic in NY in 1916. Was shut down and regained in 1923 and allowed to open. The FDA did not approve birth control for widespread use until 1960
Method of equal proportions
formula used to determine the apportionment of seats. The formula uses the state's population divided by the geometric mean of the state's current number of seats and the next seat and then allocates the remainders amongst the states in a way that provides the smallest relative difference between any pair of state in the population of a district and in the number of people per representative. The Clerk of the House of Representative then will notify each state gov't the number of seats they now have.
Swing voters
frequently swing them support from one party to another or are people who vote for the best candidate regardless of their party affiliation, making party loyalties less predictable.
Privacy rights
fundamental rights
Marbury v. Madison
gave power to the US Supreme Court to strike down legislation that is found to be unconstitutional. Gave great protection to our civil liberties that are included within the Bill of Rights because there was an entity to protect them.
Commerce Clause
gives Congress the exclusive power to regulate commerce or business between states Gibbons v. Ogden - Steamboats
Judicial review
gives the Supreme Court the power to declare laws unconstitutional. Was first recognized through the 1803 Supreme Court case of Marbury v. Madison.
Independent Regulatory Agencies
gov't bodies that create and enforce rules and regulations for a wide variety of activities supervised by the gov't. implement the laws passed by Congress, establishing policies that apply the laws on a daily basis in all the various situations and circumstances of human life. President appoint the head of these agencies with Senate approval, has no direct control over them. Operate independently and ideally free from political influence but are subject to review from Congress and the courts. Interstate Commerce Commission 1887 Food and Drug Administration (FDA); Federal Communication Commission FCC; Environmental Protection Agency (EPA); Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC)
regulatory policy
government's restriction and control over business practices is designed to achieve efficiency and equity which requires the gov't to intervene, for example to maintain competitive trade practices and to protect vulnerable parties in economic transactions
Committees
groups of legislators that are divided into specialized areas. will have a project assigned to it, will do the research and work, and then report back to the main body.
Political parties
groups of people who organize to win elections, operate the gov't and determine public policy, do have different geographic levels where important things happen. Broadest level is the National Level
Public Interest Groups
groups that lobby for things that try to appeal to the greater number of people such as environmental protections, civil rights, and public safety concerns. they exist to promote the best interests of the overall community and national good rather than the narrow interests of a particular group.
First Amendment
guarantees freedom of the press
Defense of Marriage Act
had denied federal benefits to same-sex couples who were legally married in their states. Granted equal protection or same-sex marriages as opposite-sex marriages.
Necessary and Proper Clause
has given Congress the ability to make all laws that are necessary and proper for carrying into execution the laws that are enumerated in the Constitution.
voter backgound
has the largest influence on the voter's decision means the voter's social identity, such as economic class, ethnicity, gender, race and religious preference.
Representative Sample
has the same basic characteristics as the general population. Is an accurate sample.
State courts
hear approximately 90% of all cases. This includes involving: Violations of state criminal law Juvenile justice matters Breaches of contract Personal injury claims Malpractice claims Divorces Adoptions Custody disputes Wills and estates
General election
held after the primary elections the main election, held between the winners of the various primary elections. typically results in a much higher voter turnout than the primary elections.
Regulation
how much the federal gov't should be interfering with energy-producing corporations. Bush & Trump focused on deregulation Obama protected
Evaluation of the president's performance
how the public views the way in which the president is performing
Command and Control regulations
impose mandatory requirements and standards upon parties in their activities relating to the environment.
partisanship divide
in American politics, as liberals tend to support more regulation and finding new sources of renewable energy, conservatives tend t support less regulation and commitment to tradition energy sources.
Who controls mass media
in the US corporations control most mass media In countries such as China and Russia, the national gov't controls the mass media. Know as State media
Equal Protection Clause
included in the 14th Amendment and provides that no state shall deny to any person within its jurisdiction the equal protection of the laws. was used to prevent discrimination on the basis of gender, sexual orientation or disability.
Broadcast media
includes radio, tv and internet. It's an audio and/or video communication intended for the general public. Roosevelt was the first president to use radio "fireside chats" WWII was the main source of information
The executive branch (state)
includes the governor of the state and other elected officials like the lieutenant governor, state attorney general, state auditor, and secretary of state. a state's executive branch is responsible for executing the laws that are created by the state's legislative branch and defined by the state's judicial branch.
Conventional participation
includes traditional or expected political participation, such as voting. plays the largest role in Americans' political involvement. includes donating to a campaign, volunteering for a campaign and even serving in public office.
Sovereign
independent and self-governing
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)
individuals who become unable to work because of a disability and expect to be disabled for at least 12 months before reaching the minimum retirement age for retirement benefits.
Internet media
information gained from an internet website
Reno v. Condon
involved the US Attorney General Reno against South Caroline Attorney General Condon. Condon refused to enforce a provision of the federal Driver's Privacy Protection Act that prohibits the selling of drivers' personal information. Condon argued that only states could constitutionally regulate drivers' records. However, the Court decided that driver information is an article of interstate commerce, meaning the federal government can properly regulate its use.
Material incentive
involves economic benefits or opportunities offered to members.
Right to Bear Arms
is a civil liberty guaranteed to us by the 2nd amendment.
National interest
is a country's pragmatic political, security, economic and ideological objectives.
Two-party system
is a deeply rooted feature of the American gov't. Democratic Party and the Republican Prty
Democracy
is a government run by the people, through elected representatives.
Special interest group
is a group, individual or entity that tries to influence gov't policy to advance their narrow interests.
Crown's Corner
is a monarchy
Congressional Campaign Committee
is a party committee in Congress that provides funds to members and would-be members in Congress. The funds are used to keep a member of Congress in office or to support a party member in winning a congressional seat away from an opposing party member.
Progressive Federalsim
is a slight shift toward reclaiming some power for the federal gov't through programs that regulate areas traditionally left to the states ex. 2001's no child left behind and 2010 affordable care act
treaty reservation
is a statement that claims to modify or exclude the legal effectiveness of certain parts of a treaty.
Margin of error
is a statistical measure of how accurately the results of the poll reflect the real views of the population of the polling area. In each poll, the margin of error is based n the mathematical calculation.
Parliamentary democracy
is a system of democratic governance in which the executive branch is held accountable to the legislative branch and the head of gov't is almost always a member of legislature.
Congressional democracy
is a system of democratic governance in which the executive branch is separate from the legislative branch and the head of the gov't is not a member of the legislature.
County seat
is a town that serves as the capital of that county. The county offices and county courts are usually located in the county seat.
International treaty
is an agreement made between two countries and enforceable as a part of international law. For example, the North American Free Trade Agreement, or NAFTA, is a treaty between the U.S., Canada, and Mexico. It was negotiated by President Bill Clinton and went into effect in early 1994. This treaty eliminated almost all trade barriers between the three countries and created the world's largest free trade zone.
Public Opinion
is an expression of the general population's thoughts on a particular issue. It represents a common popular opinion on a particular issue, such as public health or the economy.
Equality
is central to federalism is the state of being equivalent. in federalism, equality isn't about treating everyone the same, instead equality is about treating people in such a sway that they outcome for each person can be the same.
Political participation
is commendable. includes voting, ti can be any involvement in politics and government such as campaigning, attending meetings or even participating in a protest Eligible voters must find available time, money and resources in order to take part.
Sampling Error
is common and results when a sample isn't representative of the general population. Ex. conducting a poll by stopping people on the street. This type of poll will produce a skewed result because only particular people are likely to be present in the geographic area at that time. This occurred during the 1936 presidential race. The Literary Digest polled more than 1 million people before predicting Alfred Landon would defeat Franklin Roosevelt. The results were skewed and Roosevelt defeated Landon
Conference Committee
is created if two chambers think that different things should be added or deleted from a bill. The committee consists of members of each of the chambers that meet to work out the difference.
Libel
is defamation of character in print, audio, or video publication.
Slander
is defamation of character through unrecorded gestures or oral remarks
Statement of candidacy
is filed 15 days after reaching the $5,000 mark. Authorizes a principal campaign committee to raise and spend funds on the person's behalf.
Public Policy
is government-set objectives relating to the general health and welfare of the public, and actions taken to accomplish these objectives. It can range from providing for a national defense to ensuring the safety of our food supply.
Climate change
is human activity contributing to a rapid rise in the global temperature? The efforts to delegitimize the science supporting climate change originated under Bush's administration, which sought to bury this data in fear that it would be used to prevent deregulation of the oil and coal industries.
Article VII (just names)
is just all guys who signed the constitution. It just confirms the ratification of the Constitution.
Reserve requirement
is the amount of money a bank must keep on hand for withdrawals at all times. If the Fed raises the reserve requirement, banks have less money to lend, which restrains the growth of the money supply. On the other hand, if the Fed lowers the reserve requirement, banks have more money to lend and the money supply increases. Is the least used monetary policy tool
Foreign Policy
is the govts strategic plan and course of action in dealings with other countries and other international actors, ranging from the United Nations to a terrorist cell, on the world stage. The president participates in the development and implementation of foreign policy by initiating foreign policy responses to events, proposing foreign policy-related legislation to Congress, implementing legislation, participating in international negotiations and agreements, issuing and implementing executive orders, and taking other independent policy action
Open internet
is the internet you know, based on free, publicly available principles that anyone can access and build on.
Parliament
is the legislative branch of a parliamentary democracy. This type of of democracy is found in Britain and in free, independent countries that Britain used to rule. In Parliament, it is simple to get a law passed. A majority vote is all that is necessary to get a law passed.
The Congress
is the legislative branch of congressional democracy. This type of democracy is found in the US and a few other democratic countries. In Congress, it is not so simple. There is a lengthy process of proposing a bill, carrying out committee work amongst the individual members of Congress who have different political parties and then voting on the bill to become law. Then, the law must be presented to the president.
Foreign policy mission
is the long-term objectives that a country wants to pursue abroad. U.S. Department of State in 2014 explains that its mission is to 'Create a more secure, democratic and prosperous world for the benefit of the American people and the international community.'
Public policy progress
is the manner in which public policy is formed, implemented and evaluated.
United States Congress
is the national federal legislative body of the US of America. The main job of Congress is to make the laws for the US that affect our everyday lives and protect our rights.
President
is the official head of gov't is elected popularly by the people, and he independently chooses members of his cabinet from people that are not members of Congress. he members of Congress, although some may be members of the same political party as the president, do not have to answer to him directly and can make independent decisions.
Cabinet
is the president's advisory body. Composed of 14 secretaries and one Attorney General who head up 15 different executive departments and who advise the president on the state of the county and on matters of policy. President appoints but the Senate must confirm by majority vote. Handle matters as diverse as foreign relations (the Department of State) transportation (the Department of Transportation), public schools (Department of Education), law enforcement (Department of Justice), natural resources, (Department of the Interior), the military (Department of Defense, and the economy (Department of Commerce) Italian word that refers to a small private room. established by George Washington which only included 3 members: Secretary of State, War, and the Treasury.
Candidate Selection
is the process by which a candidate is selected by a political party to run for Congress
National Security
is the protection of a country from attack or other international threats through the use of military and nonmilitary means. covers a broad range of threats and includes military, economic, energy, environmental, and political threats.
Federalism
is the sharing of power between a national gov't and the states that reside within its borders, instead of one or the other having all the authority.
In-kind assistance
is the transfer of a benefit to a recipient not involving cash. Food stamps and health care are examples
recession
is two or more consecutive quarters in which the economy shrinks instead of grows.
National Forces
issues currently facing the country as a whole, also determine how an individual votes. It is these forces and how they influence who runs for congressional office and the election outcomes that we will be looking at during this lesson.
Yellow journalism
journalism that exploits, distorts or exaggerates in order to attract readers. Widespread support for the Spanish-American War can be attributed to yellow journalism.
Government Accountability Office
keeps a close eye on the bureaucracy's finances, performing audits, creating reports, and establishing standards to make sure that bureaucratic transactions are fair and aboveboard.
Pure Food and Drug Acts
kept people safe when buying a ingesting consumable goods
The American Bar Association
maintains a list of potential candidates for federal judgeship. is the main national professional organization of lawyers. The ABA's candidates are mostly state court system judges with well-respected professional records. Each candidate is given a rating, ranging from 'exceptionally well-qualified' to 'not qualified'. Many candidates are considered for federal judgeships based on this list, though a rating or inclusion on the list is not a requirement for a nomination.
circuit courts
middle level of the federal court system. Made up of 13. These are the federal courts of appeal. Uses 3 judges sitting together as a panel. Cases are decided sing the majority vote of the panel This court has nationwide jurisdiction over very specific issues, such as: Patent cases Cases decided by the Court of International Trade Cases decided by the Court of Federal Claims
Proportional Representation
more prevalent form of a multi-party system where the legislative seats are allocated to parties in proportion to the percentages of votes they win in elections.
Congress responsibilities
national security fiscal policy levying taxes
Closed primaries
only those voters registered with that particular political party may vote
Judicial activism
opposite of judicial restraint. Most liberal judges and even many moderate judges follow this theory. It emphasizes the need for the court to consider what best suits the nation, and therefore interpret statutes and the Constitution leniently. emphasizes the need or the court to consider that best suites the nation.
Interest Groups
organized groups of individuals sharing common objectives who actively attempt to influence policy makers. Usually rally around once central issue and use lobbyists. try to persuade the gov't to pass laws that are favorable to their group's objectives.
Articles of Confederation
originally established the US as a confederation, where each of the states operated separately and independently from one another. The US Constitution replaced the Articles of Confederation
bureaucracy
originated in France and means gov't with a small desk is a large administrative organization that handles the day-to-day business of a gov't or society. In the US bureaucracy operates on national, state, and local levels. Compared to bees
Potential Group
people who may identify with an interest group's goals but do not necessarily join.
Delegates
people who represent a national political party at the party's national convention and have the power to select that party's presidential nominee.
Bureaucrats
people who work in the bureaucracy, are simply their neighbors and fellow citizens.
Domestic policies
policies that are generally confined to problems and issues inside the country. They generally address the health, safety and welfare of the citizens of the country. 1. social policy - social insurance programs like social security and unemployment; public assistance programs, housing; food stamps 2. public health policy - focuses on the health of the population and includes both efforts to promote and protect the health of the population. - Medicare & Medicaid 3. education policy 4. environmental policy - regulating the manner in which we interact with the environment, such are clean water an air regulations 5. criminal justice policy - law and order 6. Economic policy
Institutional barriers
policies, procedures or situations that keep groups of people from accomplishing a particular task.
Coalitions
political partnerships and alliances.
Inherent powers
powers inferred from the Constitution include the power to sign executive agreements with other countries in order to facilitate foreign policy; the power to invoke executive privilege in order to keep sensitive information, such as military strategy, from Congress and the courts; the power to send military troops into combat without first consulting Congress, thought Congress must approve their continued deployment; the power to respond to a federal crisis without first consulting Congress
PAs
presidential appointments without Senate confirmation. Many people working in the executive office of the president are PSs, like the president's secretary and other administrative support staff
8th Amendment
preventing cruel and unusual punishment
5th Amendment
preventing double jeopardy and slef-incrimination
Democratic principles
principles that placed the emphasis on the people, allowing their participation while protecting their individual rights.
Propaganda
printed information that was biased or misleading in order to promote or publicize a particular political point of view.
The Establishment Clause
prohibits the US gov't from creating a law that would improperly mingle the church and the state. This law prevents the gov't from establishing any laws that would give special favors or punish unfairly one religion over another.
The Free Exercise Clause
prohibits the US gov't from punishing someone based on their religious beliefs.
equity goal
protect vulnerable parties in economic transactions
Head Start
provides early childhood education to children from low-income families that can't afford preschool education that middle and upper class children often receive.
Presidential Election Campaign Fund
provides public funds to presidential candidates
Fiscal policy
raising or lowering taxes and/or increasing or decreasing spending
Campaign finance
refers to all money raised and spent when politicians run for public office money produced to pay for the election effort
Incumbent
refers to the candidate who currently holds that particular political office.
national interest
refers to what is in the best interest of the nation and most wanted by the public.
Time, place, and manner regulations
regulations that dictate the time, place, and manner in which an individual may conduct speech.
21st Amendment
repealed 18th Amendment instituting prohibition and was ratified in 1033 by state convention
Inform
report news and information to the general public. Most significant role of the medial in a democracy must do a thorough and impartial job when informing the public on all gov't activities and political events
Bias by story selection
reporting new stories that coincide with a specific agenda. Occurs when a media outlet regularly reports stories that support only one political point of view.
Universal Declaration of Human Rights
right of minorities set United Nations "All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights...everyone is entitled to rights...without distinction of any kind, such as race, color, sex, language, religion, political or other opinion, national or social origin, property, birth or other status...All are equal before the law and are entitle without any discrimination to equal protection of the law. All are entitled to equal protection against any discrimination... and against any incitement to...discrimination...Everyone, without any discrimination, has the right to equal pay for equal work.
Civil liberties
rights guaranteed to the people by the US Constitution and by the court-made law or legislation. These liberties allow us to speak out freely against our gov't, express our opinions, organized protests and worship in whatever way we choose. It was important to the early settlers that we have these liberties in order to be protected from unnecessary gov't intrusion. courts are charged with the responsibility to review legislation to ensure that our individual civil liberties are protected.
Entrepreneurial theory
sees the formation of a group by strong leader who wishes to keep the group strong and viable for the future.
Politicians engage mass media for
self-promotion -broadcasting their political advertisements - Making tv interviews and appearances - Publishing their articles and essays - Exchanging information through social media
remands
sends the case back to the trial court for additional proceedings.
Role and Impacts of third parties
serve as indicators of the current political mood of the country; causes major parties to recognize new issues or trends; they pull votes from one of the major party candidates causing them to lose
John Quincy Adams
served during the second evolution of the two-party system, was largely supported by banking and commercial interests
Primary election
serves as a party nomination for the political office. Serve as the preliminary step in the process of selecting the US president.
Sunset provisons
set expiration dates on bureaucratic programs and the agencies that implement them
Fair Labor Standard Act of 1938
set regulations regarding minimum wage, maximum work hours, and safer working conditions.
Federal Radio Act of 1927
set up licensing procedures to allocate different frequencies to different radio stations because the airwaves were deemed public property.
Enumerated powers
specifically given to Congress in Article 1, Section 8 of the Constitution. The powers include the ability to lay and collect taxes from the American people. They also include the ability to borrow money on behalf of the US, to regulate commerce, to raise and support an army and military, to establish post offices and to create and print money. They are exclusive to the body of Congress.
Federalist papers
started print media in the US. were published and distributed to promote the ratification of the Constitution.
Bill
starts with an idea is drafted Needs a sponsor Filed by the legislator in his own chamber - whether the House of Representatives or the Senate. Is then given a number Is referred to committee Must be supported by a majority of the legislators approved by both chambers sent to the president for signature
Article 1
states "All legislative powers herein granted shall be vested in a Congress of the US, which shall consist of a Senate and a House of Representatives. Each house has different powers.
Tenth Amendment
states that all powers not constitutionally given to the federal gov't are reserved to the states. The federal gov'ts powers are limited. National Gov't only managed the national defense, foreign policy and interstate commerce. The states were free to manage their economic regulation, criminal law and other local matters.
Pluralist theory
states that politics is mainly a competition among groups, where each interest group presses for its own policy preference but where all interests are represented.
Elite theory
states that society is divided along class lines and the only group with the real power is the upper-class elite.
Preemptive Defense Doctrine
states that they US will no longer be merely reactive to acts of aggression but may commence use of force against threats as they emerge.
Hyperpluralist theory
states that too many groups are getting too much of what they want, and so gov't policies become contradictory and lack direction. Interest groups are so strong that the gov't is weakened.
swing states
states that where no political candidate typically has overwhelming support such as Michigan, Ohio, and Florida
Constitutions
states what states can't do acknowledges state laws will play the largest role in governing the people on a day-to-day basis. State constitutions preceded the US constitution
Griswold v. Connecticut
the Supreme Court ruled that several amendments to the Bill of Right imply a right to privacy. This landmark ruling paved the way for future civil liberty cases, such as those on abortion and same-sex marriage, that are being challenged in the Supreme Court to this day.
Statutory interpretation
the analysis and understanding of a federal law
Statutory interpretation
the analysis and understanding of a federal law.
Constitutional interpretation
the analysis and understanding of the US Constitution. Federal judges and Supreme Court justices must constantly analyze and determine what certain constitutional provisions mean, such as the Second Amendment's right to bear arms.
Original jusisdiction
the case can originate, or start, in a lower federal court. Civil rights issues are governed by federal law and any lawsuit would be field in the federal court system.
public image
the character projected to the pubic, especially as interpreted by the mass media.
Diversity
the citizens represent many different cultures, races, ethnicities, religions and other traits.
American values
the common cultural goals of freedom, equality and liberty.
Red tape
the complex procedures and rules that bureaucrats follow in completing their tasks.
Affirmative Action
the consideration of race or gender to benefit a minority group or a group that has bene discriminated against the past, has been protected by the Equal Protection Clause. One example of where affirmative action historically has been upheld is in the case of higher education. The courts decided that in order to correct past injustices, colleges were allowed to use race as a consideration in their admission policies.
Jurisdiction
the court has the legal authority to hear that type of case.
Original jurisdiction
the court has the right to hear the case first. The federal district courts have original jurisdiction over all cases that involve federal law.
appellate jurisdiction
the court hears an appeal from a court of original jurisdiction. The appeals court uses appellate jurisdiction to review a lower court's decision. the appellate court simply reviews the rules on a particular disputed issue. On appeal, the appellate court has the power to modify or reverse the lower court's decision. Besides the federal circuit courts, there are many different courts that exercise appellate jurisdiction. These include: State courts of appeal State superior courts State supreme courts Federal district courts And the United States Supreme Court
Judicial nationalism
the court often sided with the federal gov't even at the expense of the states. i.e. 1824 Supreme Court Case of Gibbons v. Ogden. The Court sided with the federal gov't when declaring the states had no right to regulation interstate commerce.
docket
the court's calendar or agenda
Gerrymandering
the deliberate manipulation of political boundaries for electoral advantage. It involves leaving out certain individuals or including certain individuals in a legislator's district in order to ensure reelection.
solidary incentive
the desire to associate with others and to share with others a particular interst or hobby
Limited jurisdiction
the federal courts may hear only those cases authorized by the US Constitution. Cases start in the federal court system when they involve: The US Constitution A Federal statue A treaty
Fiscal policy
the federal government's use of taxation and spending policies to affect overall business activity. Can be used in 2 ways: - Through raising and lowering taxes - Choosing how much money to spend
Bill of Rights
the first 10 amendments to the US Constitution, and include the right to privacy, the freedom of speech and the right to bear arms.
Party Organization
the formal structure and leadership of a political party. Political parties are structured in a less rigid manner than a pyramid. Each segment has significant freedom and is only linked loosely to other units, but all work towards the common ideals of the party as a whole and try to support one another.
Freedom of Speech
the free flow of information, ideas, and opinions in our society. The courts have shown that the content of what we are actually saying, is more likely to be protected from gov't regulation than conduct or what we are doing during the speech.
Freedom of the press
the freedom of speech rights that are guaranteed to the press.
Procedural rights of the accused
the general procedures and protections that the accused are afforded in our justice system.
Popular Sovereignty
the gov't operates only with the people's consent and authority. The people are the source of the gov't and its power. Designed to prevent the gov't from overstepping its boundaries and becoming a dictatorship, and it helps leaders understand their roles as public servants rather than despots who think they do not have to answer to the people that they govern.
Limited government
the gov'ts powers and functions are restricted and carefully described in the Constitution an other legal documents. The gov't is not all-powerful. It can only do what the people give it authority to do.
standing
the group must show that it has enough connection to the case to support its participation as a party to the case.
national constituency
the group of voters the president represents.
the National Organization for Women
the largest women's civil rights group in teh US was co-founded by 28 women led by Betty Friedan in 1966 and had the main agenda of equal rights for women in the workplace. The group was successful in gaining public support for important act of Congress such as the Pregnancy Discrimination Act
Term Limits
the length of time that a person may hold an office. Once elected ma only remain in office for 2 terms. Not true of Congress. Congress can hold their offices for decades
The general election
the main election, where the general voting public chooses between political parties' presidential nominees
Watchdog
the media function is to protect the public from incompetent or corrupt political officials by exposing illegal or unethical practices to the public.
Public Educator
the media inform and educate citizens on how to best exercise their democratic rights. (ex. voters can go online to search for the nearest polling place)
Bias by omission
the media leaves out one side of a stor7, or one aspect of a story. Often associated with political news stories.
Platform
the media provide an outlet for political parties and candidates to communicate their messages to the public. media impacts our political views and opinions. We shape our opinions using the information provided to use through the platform.
United States Congress
the national federal legislative body of the US of America. The main job of Congress is to make the laws for the US that affect our everyday lives and protect our rights.
US Congress
the national federal legislative body of the US of America. The main responsibilities are to make the laws for the US that affect our everyday lives and protect our rights. 541 individuals in Congress
United States Congress
the national federal legislative body of the US. Main job is to make laws that affect our everyday lives and protect our rights 541 individuals in Congress
Public Policy
the objectives that a gov't sets regarding the health, welfare and safety of its citizens and the actions it takes to accomplish the objectives. (domestic policy and foreign policy)
National security policy
the overall strategy a gov't takes to advance national security and the course of action it pursues to accomplish the strategy.
Diversity jurisdiction
the parties are located in different states
oral argument
the parties give a short presentation before the panel, where the judges can ask questions. each party gets about 15 minutes
Appellant
the party who files an appeal
appellee
the party who is defending the appeal is also sometimes called the respondent and is usually the winner from the lower court.
Actual Group
the people who actually join an interest group is always smaller than the potential group.
Media bias
the perception that the media is reporting the news in a partial or prejudiced manner occurs when the media seems to push a specific viewpoint or ignores certain aspects of the story
Limited government
the power of our government is restricted by the Constitution. Our Bill of Rights guarantees that the government can't infringe on certain civil liberties in order to protect the rights of the people.
Advice and Consent
the president alone has the authority to nominate a candidate of his or her choosing then the Senate must approve the nomination by advice and consent. Prior to voting, the Senate may hold hearings to better familiarize themselves with the nominee and his or her background and experience. Sometimes a presidential appointments committee researches and meets with the nominee and then reports to the Senate. Lastly, if the Senate approves, the president formally appoints and commissions the appointee.
Veto
the president rejects and does not sign some or all of the bill into law. Congress must then rewrite the bill or override the president's veto with a two-thirds vote of all members.
Presidential appointments
the president selects people to serve in various federal gov't positions. These include all US ambassadors, all Cabinet positions, all US Supreme Court justices, and all federal judge positions PAS positions - president appoints with Senate confirmation
Legislative agenda
the president's legislative goals and plans for Congress during that particular session. In order to facilitate the agenda, the president asks specific lawmakers to draft, sponsor, and lobby for particular bills. However, it is up to Congress whether or not the proposed bills are passed as legislation.
Political socialization
the process by which people form their ideas about politics. It's the lifelong development of a person's political values.
Litigation
the process of bringing a lawsuit to pursue their causes. known as strategic litigation because it's calculated to further a particular cause.
County Government
the public administration of a county, borough, or parish. Largest political subdivision within a state. Main function is to locally administer state laws. The highest-ranking county official is typically known as the county commissioner or county supervisor.
Municipal Government
the public administration of a township, village, borough, city or town. Run services such as parks and recreation, police, fire, housing services, EMS, Municipal courts, public transportation, public works. highest-ranking municipal official is usually known as a mayor or a city manager.
Local Government
the public administration of towns, cities, counties, and districts. Includes both county and municipal gov't structures. Local government runs our city utilities, libraries, fire departments, public swimming pools, parks, local law enforcement and many other areas of our everyday lives.
Idealism
the pursuit of a higher goal or idea.
Objectively worded
the questions are phrased to be neutral and impartial. The questions shouldn't reflect the politician's or the pollster's views.
The right to an adequate attorney
the right of a defendant to have an attorney for his defense who will do a reasonably good job. afforded via the 6th amendment which states "in all criminal prosecutions, the accused shall enjoy the right...to have the assistance of counsel for his defense."
Freedom of Assembly
the right of people to gather together to express their opinions or political beliefs to be protected speech.
District of Colombia v. Heller
the right of the individual to keep and bear arms was solidified.
The right to keep and bear arms
the right of the individual to use and buy a gun. one of our civil liberties, spelled out in the 2nd amendment. Was included in the English Bill of Rights making as specific legislation that the right to bear arms was not a power given to the monarch
Liberty
the right to be free, as long as another's rights aren't harmed.
Liberty
the right to be free, as long as another's rights aren't harmed. Liberty is an important concept when considering American's frame of reference. Remember that the original colonists felt oppressed by British rule and longed for greater freedom. Liberty is not the same thing as complete freedom. Our liberty is somewhat restrained through laws and rules to protect other's rights and safety.
The right to a jury trial
the right to be tried by a jury of the defendant's peers. Protected by the 6th amendment and considered one of the most important of the defendant's procedural rights.
The right to confront witnesses
the right to cross-examine the witnesses against you. Also called the confrontation clause is contained within the 6th Amendment.
The right to a public trial
the right to have an open courtroom so the public can witness proceedings. incorporated into the 6th amendment.
Name recognition
the term used to describe the ability of people to recognize a politician's name.
Devolution
the transfer of certain powers from one entity to another. It's an effort to reduce federal gov't powers by transferring some responsibilities to state governments. related to federalism based on new federalism increased in popularity because many politicians thought federal grants had been improperly used to impose the interest of the federal gov't on the individual states. Gov't provided large blocks of grants or blocks of money to the states to be used for specific programs.
Devolution
the transfer of certain powers from the federal gov't to the states.
Cash Assistance
the transfer of money from a government-funded program to an individual, such as a welfare check.
Political attitudes
the way you think or feel about our gov't and related social economic issues.
Electoral college votes
there are 538 total votes of these 100 votes represent our US senators. The remaining 438 votes are divided between our congressional districts including the district of Columbia has 3 votes. the number of Electoral College votes a state has is dependent on how many congressional districts that state has. 270 are needed to win. if not received the House of Representatives will decide the election.
district courts
these are the lower federal courts serving as both trial courts and appellate courts. Each of the 94 courts serves a specific geographical area of the United States with at least one district in each state. Beyond those 94, there are also federal courts in each district serving only bankruptcy cases. This level also includes several national specialty courts for particular claims, including: The United States Tax Court, which hears all federal tax claims The United States Court of Federal Claims, which hears all claims against the United States The United States Court of International Trade, which hears all claims involving customs and international trade
Collective Good
things of value that everyone can enjoy regardless of group membership status.
appointment power
this power comes from the Constitution's appointment clause and is the president's authority to select people to serve in various government roles. Our president has the authority to select all presidential cabinet positions, all Supreme Court justices, all federal judges, all U.S. ambassadors, and several other government roles. However, the president's appointment power is not unchecked. Most appointments, like those for federal judgeships and Supreme Court justices, require majority approval of the Senate.
monetary policy
through the Federal Reserve to buy and sell treasury bonds, change the reserve requirements in banks, and change the discount rate Goals of using monetary policy are to promote: - Maximum unemployment - stable prices - moderate long-term interest rates
checks and balances
to ensure no one branch held too much power or too much authority over any other branch. Known as the separation of powers.
Voting Rights Act of 1965
understood to have ensured African Americans the right to vote without stumbling blocks, such as literacy tests and poll taxes, which were measures that had been put into place after African Americans were granted the right to vote in order to still prevent them from having the means to vote. Hispanics benefited from the Voting Rights Act after an amendment of 1975.
Indirect Techniques
used to mask the interest group's own activities and make the effort appear to be spontaneous include generating public pressure, using constituents as lobbyists, and public protest demonstrations Working through others, who may be constituents of the general public. try to stimulate a large interest in the public to get them to pressure the government to change something. Such efforts may include political ads, mass mailings, and Internet postings. Boycotts
Conservative Ideology
value individual freedom and individual responsibility; want a limited gov't
Constituencies
voter support and interests within one party
Conservative
voters seek to uphold traditional family structures, social values, less gov't action in social problems and tough crime response. vas majority of Americans.
Independent Voters
voters who do not link themselves to one party, it is steadily growing year by year, which causes the predictable party membersh8p of the democratic and republican parties to become less certain.
slate of electors
votes on behalf of each state.
Electors
voting representatives The states chose electors and those electors then selected the president
Nullification
was championed by Thomas Jefferson maintains that the states can and should refuse to enforce unconstitutional federal laws. Since states are independent from the federal gov't nullification poses that the states have no outright responsibility to uphold another entities laws. t's meant to be a check on federal powers because if the federal government is allowed to determine the extent of its own powers, it could continue to expand those powers. No federal court has ever upheld the use of nullification.
Equal Employment Opportunity Commission
was created with the primary purpose of investigating complaints and imposing penalties for gender and race discrimination. One of the first decisions was to rule that sex-segregated help wanted ads in newspapers violate the law. This ruling was challenged in teh US Supreme Court and had the dynamic result of opening doors for higher-paying jobs for women that they had not even been able to apply to before.
Whig/Democrat party
was destroyed by the abolition of slavery
14th Amendment
was enacted to apply to all the right included within the Bill of Rights and other amendments to the states and was done under the premise that everyone deserved equal protections under the laws regardless of where they lived or what color of skin they had.
26th Amendment
was in response to the Vietnam War draft. It was ratified in 1971 and set the minimum voting age at 18.
Federalist Party
was newly formed but already largely controlled the federal gov't. Was the first American political party, and it advocated a strong central gov't.
the Equal Pay Act
was passed in 1963 by Congress and made it illegal to pay women lower rates for the same job on the basis of their gender.
Voting Rights Act of 1965
was passed to ensure that blacks had the right to vote the same way that whites did.
Seventeenth Amendment to the US Constitution
was ratified in 1913 provided for the direct popular election of senators, effectively cutting out of the loop senate elections that were controlled by corruption and bribery by the state legislatures.
Duplication
when gov't agencies seem to be doing the very same thing.
Waste
when gov't agencies spend more than necessary to purchase services and products.
Indirect techinique
when interest groups use third parties to influence gov't officials.
peak
when the actual output is above potential output. real GDP is growing quickly, inflation is higher, and unemployment is low.
through
when the actual output is way below the potential because it takes time for things to get back to where they were before the recession. Real GDP has been shrinking but has now reached the bottom and is about to grow again. Inflation is very low and unemployment may still be high for a while.
Economic fluctuations
when the economy goes through ups and downs. It grows in a fairly predictable pattern.
deflationary fiscal spending
when the government wants to decrease overall demand for goods to prevent a boom and bust scenario, the government will likely cut government spending and/or increase taxes. Having to shoulder more of the economic burden because the government isn't spending any of their revenue while also having to pay more in taxes, citizens will reduce their spending because they don't have as much money. This type of policy, however, does help the government because it allows itself to keep more of its own money, and it also generates more revenue through higher taxes.
expansionary fiscal spending
when the government wants to increase demand for goods and get the economy out of a recession, the gov't will likely increase spending and/or cut taxes.
National popular votes
winner takes all wins all of the state's electoral college votes. The popular vote is the sum of all votes cast in a particular state.
Plurality
winner-take-all electoral system
Other womens rights acts
women's right to a divorce; to terminate a pregnancy or to receive funds as victims of domestic violence and rape were achieved.
Declaration of Sentiments
written at the first women's rights convention held in Seneca Falls, NY. It set out the issues and goals of the women's civil rights movement. Asked for equal rights for women including voting rights.
Congress minimum requirements (Senate)
30 years old A citizen of the US for 9 years An inhabitant of the state he is selected from Can file paperwork himself Can be nominated by his political party Must submit an affidavit indicating their desire along with a petition signed by a certain minimum number of voters in that state
Types of primary elections
- Open primaries - Closed primaries - Semi-open primaries - Runoff primaries
Structures of State Governments
- the executive branch - the legislative branch - the judicial branch
Supreme Court Justices
9 justices that determine aspects of our personal lives such as: Can the government regulate what I do with my body? Does the First Amendment protect what I say? When do I have a right to a lawyer? Have I been discriminated against? Can the police enter my home without my permission?
Voting decision factors
- the voter's background and identification with the candidates - The voter's party identification - The voter's view of the incumbent's previous performance
Committee
A bill with a number is referred to the committee. The members are experts in all sorts of different fields. Can schedule the bill for hearing.
Direct Democracy
Every member of the society participates directly in the political process.
Cooperative Federalism
Federal and state gov't responsibilities are intertwined. marble cake The federal gov't and state gov'ts work together to provide services. i.e. state gov't often administer federal programs, and states often depend on federal grans to support state gov't programs
Public Opinion
An expression of the general population's thoughts on a particular issue.
Amendment III
No quartering of soldiers without the consent of the home owner.
Constitution
Calls for 3 branches of gov't 1.) the executive 2.) the legislative 3.) the judicial
National Women Suffrage Association
Created by Susan B. Anthony and Elizabeth Cady Stanton The main goal of this group was to gain passage of an amendment to the US Constitution that would result in voting rights for women.
Articles of Confederation
Established the US as a confederation and established that each of the states operated separately and independently from one another.
Article II
Establishes the executive branch of the gov't - the president
Article 1 o the Constitution
Establishes the legislative branch of our gov't. This is Congress.
Amendment VII
Right of trial by jury in civil cases. (when people sue each other (Not the same a criminal cases). Civil court can't send you to jail, but they can make you pay.
Amendment II
Right to bear arms 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
Amendment V
Right to due process of law, freedom from self-incrimination, double jeopardy (can't be tried twice for the same crime)
Amendment IX
Rights not listed may exist, and just because they are not listed doesn't mean they can be violated.(any right that a person has cannot be denied just because it is not in this list)
Amendment VI
Rights of those accused of a crime (the right to a speedy and public trial and the right t have an attorney)
Right to Privacy
The freedom of privacy is a civil liberty guaranteed to us by the 9th amendment to the Constitution, which states that if a right is not expressly stated in the Bill of Rights, that it doesn't mean it is not guaranteed to us. guarantees that a man and woman can marry and divorce; parents can discipline their children; right of a woman t terminate her pregnancy
To insure domestic tranquility
The gov't makes laws to discourage wrongdoing and keep society safe. It also enforces these laws, maintains order, resolves disputes and punishes those who break the law thereby allowing citizens to peacefully pursue their daily lives and hold on to their money and private property.
Amendment X
The powers not given to the federal gov't by the Constitution are retained by the states. (everything that isn't expressly stated as controlled by the federal gov't is still handled by the states.)
Popular reasons why people didn't vote:
Too busy or had schedule conflicts; out of town or was away from home; time and convenience problems; illness or disability; not interested or felt vote would make no difference; did not like candidates or campaign issues. - Too time consuming or inconvenient.
Democrat
West Coast, Northeastern States; strong minority support; even spread throughout; more support from women; more moderate and liberal
Bay of Pigs
a failed invasion of Cuba, made by CIA-trained Cuban refugees, in an attempt to bring down the communist gov't.
opinion
a written decision representing the majority view. Sometimes the opinion will also include a written portion representing other views, such as a concurring opinion or a dissenting opinion.
legal brief
a written document stating the facts and legal argument of the party's case. The appellee also files a brief which is a response to the appellant's argument.
limited jurisdiction
all federal courts are limited to hearing only those cases authorized by the US Constitution.
Primary Elections
allow party members to vote on their party's nominees and select a candidate to run in the general election.
10th Amendment
allowing all rights not specifically granted to the federal government to be handled by states.
oversight authority
allows Congress to monitor executive implementation of law and investigate executive activities.
Franking privileges
allows members of congress to use any part of their office budget t send out mass mailings to their district without paying for postage.
Bill of Rights
amendments Serve to guarantee citizens certain individual liberties. These are the liberties the colonist felt were most important and must be protected from obstruction by the new gov't.
Gallup Organization
an American company that publishes timely public opinion research on a multitude of topics through the use of the Gallup poll. The first Gallup poll was developed in 1932. The Gallup poll routinely measures public opinion and attitudes on various political, social and economic issues.
executive pardons
an action by the U.S. president that lessens or sets aside the punishment for a federal crime. Article II gives the president almost unlimited power to grant pardons. In effect, the Constitution allows the president to 'undo' the final decision of a federal court. In this way, the executive branch further checks and balances the judicial branch. The president may grant a full pardon or a conditional pardon. A conditional pardon means the party must fulfill certain conditions before the pardon takes effect. Pardons also serve to restore a party's civil rights in cases where the party lost rights as part of his or her criminal punishment.
Executive pardons
an action by the US president that lessens or sets aside the punishment for a federal crime. Allows the president to undo the final decision of a federal court.
Constitutional amendment
an article added to the US constitution that alters the Constitution. An amendment can modify, delete, or add to the Constitution.
American Indian Movement
an effective voice seeking to preserve Native American culture and raise legislative awareness about land claims and claims on children that are up for adoption who have Native American Ancestry.
Patriot Movement
an effort to protest Britain's rule and to secure more freedoms for the colonists.
Nomination Campaign
an effort to secure a specific political party's nomination.
Election campaign
an effort to win the general election against other political parties' tickets.
Voter behavior
an examination of why people voted the way they did
Political party affiliation
an identification with a particular political party.
lower courts
are known as courts of general jurisdiction operate on a county level. sometimes known as district courts are the busiest courts in the entire American legal system. They hear both civil and criminal cases
Political decisions in parliamentary democracy
are made by people following their party line and making very few individual decisions. Then the public votes on the candidate to officially elect them to Parliament.
Political decisions in congressional democracy
are mainly made by the people - even though support by a political party is common. Candidates for Congress have their careers, ambitions and plans looked at individually by the people and are elected mainly based on these attributes.
Incentive regulations
are market-oriented and seek to provide incentives to encourage certain behavior through rewards and discourage other behavior through making the conduct costly.
PACs
are private organizations that donate or spend more than $1,000 for the purpose of influencing an election. limited to donating nor more than $5,000 to a single candidate and nor more than $15,000 to a political party each election
Multi-party systems
are set up to allow multiple political parties to have the opportunity to gain control of the gov't separately or in a coalition
527 groups
are similar to PAC. However, they don't directly donate to or work with a particular campaign
weapons of mass destruction
are so powerful that they have the ability to destroy entire populations. they include chemical, biological, and nuclear weapons.
Economic interest groups
are the most numerous type of all interest groups formed and include groups who mirror the majority economic groups of the American economy. Business groups, agricultural interest groups, interest groups of professional (teachers, doctors, lawyers, etc.)
Sessions
are the time that the Congress meets all together to work.
client states
are weaker states that rely upon a major power for support and aid.
Federal courts (federalism)
bankruptcy is governed by federal law. dictates that state laws cannot conflict with or violate the US Constitution. State laws cannot govern federal powers
Republican Party
Northern democrats who opposed slavery formed around the abolition of slavery
tariffs
import taxes, on those goods if they disagree with the price that they floor was set at.
Conventional forces
include the US Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marines. Are typically deployed in the open field against similar forces, just like in WWII.
Presidential powers
include the power to negotiate treaties and appoint ambassadors.
Lobbying reform legislation in 1995
included - a solid definition of who is considered a lobbyist - requirements mandating the registration of lobbyists with congress - Mandatory semiannual reports disclosing the nature of an interest group's lobbying efforts - limits and regulation on receiving gifts from lobbyists
Illegal participation
includes activities that are specifically prohibited by law. last resort and highly discouraged. examples include illegal participation such as sabotage, vandalism, wiretapping, forgery and any act of terrorism.
Political participation
includes any activity that shapes, affects or involves the political field. includes voting, attending a rally, signing a petition or sending a letter to a representative
Media
includes mass communication, television radio, newspapers, and the internet.
The legislative branch (state)
includes the elected representatives of the state.
Political Participation
includes voting and any other activity that shapes, affects or involves the political field.. includes attending a rally, signing a petition or sending a letter to a representative.
The Architectural Barriers Act
passed in 1968 mandated federally constructed building and facilities to be accessible to people with physical disabilities
The Rehabilitation Act
passed in 1973 had the effect of prohibiting discrimination in federal services and programs and any programming that receives federal funds.
Spoils system
patronage tends to downplay talent and experience and often favors political groupies and flatterers over better qualified office seekers. emphasized office seekers' political loyalty rather than their qualifications
Religious peers
people associated with your same religious affiliation.
Equality
people have the same or similar opportunities to compete and achieve in this county. It does not necessarily guarantee equal results.
Constituencies
people that belong to the party
Lobbyists
people who attempt to influence legislation and the administrative decisions of gov't to try to get law as passed that are in favorable to their central agendas.
New media
provides cheaper and easier ways to influence people's political attitudes. includes internet -and digital-based forms of mass communication, including social media. have influenced people to vote, volunteer and give money is convenient
Progressivism
push for reform in all areas of society
13th Amendment
ratified in 1865 abolished slavery
19th Amendment
ratified in 1920 allowed women the right to vote
Paradox of participation
recognizes that it's unreasonable to expect people to participate in the political process, but if everyone stops believing in the power of voting, the democratic process ceases.
Sunshine laws
require bureaucratic agencies to be open to the public by holding regular meetings.
Political issues
situations or matters related to politics or policy choices. may include issues like the economy, gay marriage or gun control.
Social media
social interaction between users in which they share and exchange information. Obama was the first to successfully use social media in a presidential campaign FB and Twitter
Bureaucracy
society's administrative organization that implements the policies and enforces the laws made by gov't leaders. These bureaucrats, or administrators, hold the real power, because they are the ones who get to interpret the policies and laws for the rest of society.
Great Depression
stock market crash of 1929 Severe economic downturn, affecting countries throughout the world. Brough failing businesses, alarming high unemployment rates and widespread poverty.
Thomas Jefferson & James Madison
supported the formation of the democratic-republican party
Imperialism
supposed to promote the good of society, but sometimes agencies just keep getting bigger and start to take on a life of their own.
Public Opinion Poll
surveys commissioned by various groups in in order to determine people's thoughts on a particular matter.
Public opinion polls
surveys commissioned by various groups in order to determine people's thoughts on particular matters.
Preamble
tells us why the Framers wrote the Constitution and why they chose this particular form of gov't. The Framers wanted a more centralized gov't while allowing the states to continue to govern most matters themselves. Also wished to prevent the national gov't from exercising too much power of the people
Democratic Party
the Democratic-Republican Party split when Adams & Jackson disagreed on many issues; Jackson became the first Democratic Party president
State appellate court
intermediate courts that review questions of legal procedure or matters of law arising from the lower court decisions. Appellate courts use a panel of judges to review only a particular point or issue. The appellate judges will not rehear the entire cases
Bureaucracy
is not immune from legal actions and that the courts can rule against it. Still subject to control from the president, Congress, the courts, and ultimately, the American people.
Nationalism
is patriotism or identifying with one's nation. Includes the belief that we are superior to other nations. It can serve as a sort of "rallying point" during economic depression on wartime, because Americans share common feelings of patriotism and hope.
The judicial branch (state)
is that state's court system, including the state Supreme Court justices. A state's Supreme Court heads up that state's judicial branch. The judicial branch is responsible for interpreting and defining issues of state law.
United States Foreign Service
is the diplomatic arm of the US Department of state.
Incumbent
is the existing holder of a political office 85% of incumbents have won from 1964 to 2008
Discount rate
is the interest rate that the Fed charges banks who wish to borrow directly from it
Partisan Era
lasted approximately from 1830's through the early 1900's . saw much corruption between and amongst the main political groups in the US, the Republicans and the Democrats. Believed this was because during this time period, senators ere chosen by state govt's.
Committee Era
lasted approximately from the early 1900s through the 1960s. This era saw the rise of real leadership in both houses of congress.
Sherman Antitrust Act and the Clayton Act
law that prevents unfair trade practices were created during the Progressive Era example of companies that broke antitrust laws are Microsoft and AT&T
Legislation
laws that cannot be passed without the consent of both houses.
Federal Election Commission
commission in charge of enforcing the Federal Election Campaign Act
Public Assistance Programs
commonly called welfare; are gov't programs that seek to provide aid to certain classes of individuals who are poor. No everyone is eligible for public assistance. should be provided only to the deserving: those people who are not responsible for their own poverty, such as children, the aged, and disabled. Fit, working-aged adults without children tend to be out of luck and deemed undeserving of most public assistance.
Representative Sample
considered a good sample. Has the basic characteristics as the general population.
Checks and Balances
each branch has functions that help prevent the others from assuming too much power.
Proportional Representation
each candidate has an opportunity to gain representation in the gov't and the amount they get is proportional to the percentage of votes they received in an election. there is an incentive to form parties based on specific ideologies or common interests.
Bicameral
each state has two legislative chambers, much like the federal legislative system. This branch of state government is responsible for creating state legislation that can become state law. They are also responsible for approving the state budget and initiating tax legislation. Also like the federal government, this branch has the power of impeachment, which can be used as a check and balance on the executive branch.
Apportioned
each state is allocated a number o seats in Congress in accordance with how big its population is.
Article V
lays out the process by which the Constitution may be amended. There are four different ways. 1.) Proposal by the convention of the states with ratification by state conventions. Has never been used. 2.) Proposal by convention of the states, with ratification by state legislatures. Never been used. 3.) Proposal by Congress, with ratification by state conventions. Has been used once 4.) Proposal by Congress, with ratification by the state legislatures. used for all current amendments except 1
governmental branches
legislative, executive and judicial The supreme court together with all other federal courts make up the judicial branch
Constitutional
limited power
Fourteenth Amandment
limits state powers and protects the basic rights of citizens. Includes due process clause limiting the states ability to deprive citizens of fundamental legal rights and expands the federal gov't authority.
tax deduction
limits the amount of taxable income a company has. Deductions often come in the form of partial debits for certain things that a company has to pay for in order for their business to operate efficiently.
Foreign government interest groups
lobby the US gov't when vital legislation affecting their trade interest is considered.
Civil Rights Act of 1964
made it illegal to segregate any public place based on race, religion, or national origin. Made it illegal for employers to discriminate when hiring. Jim Crow laws were no longer allowed in any state
Jim Crow Laws
made segregation by race the law
panel
made up of three judges working together. All three will review the case and render a decision. To reach their decision, the panel votes. Majority rules.
efficiency goal
maintain competitive trade practices
Popular sovereignty
maintains that the source of gov't power comes from the will of the people. Is based on the concept that gov't exists in order to benefit the citizens. Romans and Greeks
Courts
make sure that the bureaucracy follows the law and protects citizens from bureaucratic abuses.
Supreme court of the US
makes up the highest level The Supreme Court also has original jurisdiction over those rare cases involving a dispute between states or an issue involving diplomats from other countries.
Equality
means people have the same or similar opportunities to compete and achieve in this country. Equality does not necessarily guarantee equal results. The gov't equals the playing field by providing small business loans, welfare assistance, disability pay, Title IX programs, Section 8 housing programs and many others. 13th amendment abolished slavery 19th amendment granted women the right to vote.
Authority
means that an individual or group has the right to use power by making decisions, giving orders, and demanding obedience.
Federalism
means that governmental powers are shared between the federal gov't and the state gov't.
Dual Federalism
means that states each have their responsibilities and the national gov't has its responsibilities. These responsibilities rarely overlapped. Also know as layer cake federalism
Fragmented policy
means that the US gov't does not have one overarching uniform policy towards regulating the environment. U.S. environmental policy is developed in response to conflicting interests, public opinion, economics, and scientific debate and controversy.
Jurisdiction
means that the court has the legal authority to hear that type of case.
Individual responsibility
means the individual is sovereign in his life and actions. allows us the freedom to make our own choices and the possibility to suffer consequences. is the greatest right granted through the American political system. Experts argue that individual responsibility allows the greatest exercise of freedom.
Public voice
media provide an open forum for public debate and discussion. public can communicate opinions and concerns with one another and even with the candidates
State Media
medial controlled by the gov't
judicial branch
members are appointed. The president nominates a judicial candidate, and the Senate must approve the appointment by a majority vote. Once confirmed, members of the judicial branch serve life terms and are free from any further control by the executive branch.
Executive branch & Legislative branch
members are elected The US President and Congress
Free rider problem
membership recruitment becomes a problem for groups because the benefits they achieve can be gained without joining the group.
Bills
new potential legislation or resolutions.
Party identification
not just a voter's party affiliation but also a voter's phycological attachment to a particular political party. American voters tend to learn and adopt whichever party affiliation most influenced their childhoods.
Bias by spin
occurs when a media outlet interprets a story one way, to the exclusion of other interpretations. involves a reporter's tone and subjective comments
Bias by placement
occurs when a news outlet prominently places news stories that coincide with a specific agenda while burying those that represent an opposing point of view.
Bias by labeling
occurs when a news outlet uses critical labels to identify politicians or groups or fails to label biased points of view. Another type of bias by labeling occurs when a media outlet uses a report or a source that is biased, without labeling it as such
pork-barrel spending
occurs when legislators tack local spending projects onto larger bills. When the larger bill is passed, money flows to the representative's district for a local project, such as fixing roads.
Defamation
occurs when someone prints or broadcasts information that is untrue and harmful to someone else. Usually civil cases governed largely by state law. Includes both Libel and slander.
Diversity jurisdition
occurs when the parties are citizen of two different sates or one party is a US citizen and the other is a citizen of a foreign country. A diversity plaintiff may choose to bring the case in federal district court, though state law may be used to decide the case. Besides federal district courts, other courts with original jurisdiction include: State trial courts Traffic courts Family courts Juvenile courts Bankruptcy courts Tax courts And the United States Supreme Court
Term
of Congress is divided into two separate sessions, one for each year that the Congress is serving.
Unemployment benefits
offer temporary payments to eligible people who have lost their jobs. Each state administers its own program subject to federal standards and approval from the Secretary of Labor.
Purposive incentive
offers individuals the satisfaction of taking action when the goals of a group correspond to their own beliefs or principles.
Iron Triangle
often defined as the policy-making coalition or relationship between bureaucratic agencies, congressional committees, and interest groups (those politically active people who gather around a common goal or issue.)
House of Representatives
one of the two houses that make up the body of Congress. Has 435 members, and the Senate has 100 members. All members earn their seat by direct vote from the citizens on Election Day. Meet in the Capital Building in Washington. Each state elects one representative depending o the population of the state.
Senate
one of the two houses that make up the body of Congress. Meet in the Capitol building in Washington DC Each state elects two senators to the Senate
Municipal Ordinance
or city ordinance a law, rule or regulation made and enforced by a city gov't. Ex. laws regarding parking, waste disposal, and noise pollution
Boycotts
organized refusal to buy a certain product or patronize a particular business.
US Constitutuion
enacted in 1788 exclusively controlled by the people of the US
The Civil Rights Act of 1866
guaranteed to all citizens the rights that had already been extended to white citizens.
Brown v. Board of Education of Topeka, Kansas
held that even if separate school are equal, the negative impact of the separation on the races in the minds of the people was not repairable.
State of the ecomony
how healthy the country's finances are
state of the economy
how healthy the country's finances are, is considered a good measure of the success of the Congress in session because if the economy is in poor share, it is partially to blame on the lawmakers.
Evaluation of the president's performance
how the public views the way in which the president is performing, is also an important national force that influences congressional elections.
Evaluation of the president's performance
how the public views the ways in which the president is performing, also considered an important factor in measuring Congress's effectiveness.
President (bureaucracy)
can carry out his promises to his constituents, carefully appoints new members of the bureaucracy and exercises his power to reorganize agencies and departments
Congress (bureaucracy)
can investigate accusations again the bureaucracy and adjust bureaucratic budgets.
Sampling errors
can result when a sample isn't representative of the general population.
Twentieth Amendment to the US Constitution
changed the date in which Congress and the President took office after an election was held. Enabled the new office holder to take fresh action quicker rather than having to wait to deal with a potential crisis.
judicial review
the Supreme Court's power to declare laws unconstitutional Supreme Court rulings, or decisions, are made by a panel of judges known as justices. There are nine Supreme Court justices, who are appointed by the U.S. president and confirmed by the Senate. One justice serves as Chief Justice.
preemptive war doctrine
the US will attack a threat before it is attacked if there is strong evidence that an attack against the US is imminent. Bush administration
Political Power
the ability of individuals and groups to create and enforce policies and manage public resources.
Bureaucratic accountabilty
the ability of the gov't especially the president, Congress, and the courts, to hold the bureaucracy responsible for its performance and its actions.
Media Criticism
the act of closely examining and judging the media
Campaigning
the act of running for office This can include using media, polling, and fundraising. Is expensive and time consuming
Participation
the act of taking part in something. in terms of federalism - means that more people have the opportunity to take part in our gov't and in our nation's decision making.
Bureaucracy
the administrative organization that is supposed to help keep the gov't running smoothly and efficiently by implementing laws, administrating daily business, and writing rules and regulations
Governor
the highest ranked public official in the state. Chosen by a statewide popular vote. Serves 4 years a governor has the power to issue executive orders, prepare the state budget, make state appointments, veto legislation, and grant pardons to criminals convicted of state crimes.
Political Platform
the ideals and positions a political party has.
Fundraising
the identification and solicitation of people or companies to invest in campaign.
Individualism
the individual's rights are valued above those of the gov't. Is highly protected through the Bill of Rights.
Representative Democracy
the members of society vote for leaders to represent them in the decisions and actions of the political process.
partisan constituency
the members of the president's political party. The people who work in and finance the president's campaigns.
Self-interest
the participation benefits that particular person in some way.
Limited Government
the power of our gov't is restricted by the Constitution. Our Bill or Rights guarantees that the gov't cannot infringe on certain civil liberties.
Fundamental rights
the right to get married or divorced Abortion parents have their own right to make decisions about the care, custody and control of their children. Parents have a privacy right to determine how their children are educated, private schools or public schools and what language is taught
The right to remain silent
the right to not be forced to say anything.
Plessy v. Ferguson
the ruling law on school segregation. Plessy stated schools may be separated by race also long as they were equal in quality. "Separate but Equal" Brown sought o over tune or revers Plessy
Costs and benefits
the sacrifices compared to the advantages. a cost-benefit analysis works like this: when the costs outweigh the benefits, people have little incentive to participate. When benefits outweigh the costs, people can be easily persuaded to participate.
Civil Rights Movement
the specific movement to gain equality for blacks, which took place between the Civil War and the second half of the 20th century
National Chairperson
the spokesperson for the entire party. The national chairperson along with the national committee plans the next campaign and convention, obtains financial contributions, and publicizes the national party.
Federal Election Campaign Act
the statute that governs the financing of federal elections.
Foreign Policy
the strategic plan of a gov't in dealings with other countries and international actors on the world stage, ranging from the United Nations to a terrorist cell. 1. diplomacy - the management of relations between foreign countries through peaceful means, including negotiations, treaties, and foreign aid. 2. Defense policy - providing for the international security of the country through the projection f military power. Intelligence - involves gathering information concerning potential international threats to a country. Can be political, economic, or military. 4. trade relations - managing economic relations with another country.
Contractionary monetary policy
the supply of credit decreases and its cost increases. This is most often done to control inflation, which will be covered in another lesson.
Expansionary monetary policy
the supply of credit increases and its costs fall. This type of policy is often implemented as an attempt to encourage economic growth. The Fed wants to put businesses and banks in a position to want to take out loans and create healthy investments that will sustain the economy.
Political culture
the system of general political traditions, customs and beliefs of the family.
Decision making
the thought process of selecting a logical choice from the available options. Presidents use Congress, their cabinet, political advisors, agency bureaucrats, the court system, their political parties, interest groups and others to help guide presidential decisions.
election season
the time period leading up to a presidential election, which can last up to two years.
Guaranteed price
this method is often criticized because it encourages over-production and inefficiency, and as a result, the government is often forced to purchase the resulting surplus.
winner-takes-all
used for distributing the electoral votes means that the winner of the states popular vote automatically receives all of the states' electoral votes.
Political Decisions
used to be made by political leaders in back rooms. is any choice dealing with gov't affairs, structure or politics
Devolution Revolution
used to describe the era of politics where federal programs were downsized and state responsibilities were increased. Applied to social programs, though Social Security and Medicare remain largely untouched I
Second Continential Congress
was the first governing body of the US during the Revolutionary War This was during the formative years of the US.
Print media
was the most dominant form of media (books, newspapers, newsletters, and magazines) Communication intended for the general public that is lightweight, portable, and printed. Started with the Federalist Papers Print media evolved due to the telegraph
Wikileaks
website founded in 2006 so that whistleblowers can anonymously share confidential documents.
Lame duck reforms
were made to ensure that congress men who lost re-election bids who neither had the time nor the mandate to deal with national rises were replace quicker.
Reported
when a bill is sent back to the chamber floor and is ready to be debated.
Lobbying
when a person, called a lobbyist, attempts to directly influence legislation by interacting with gov't officials. The term comes from a time when private citizens actually congregated in the lobbies of legislative chambers and waited for a time to approach a government official. Today lobbying is largely done by professionals working for consulting firms or holding defined positions within interest groups
direct techinique
when an interest group's activity involves direct interaction with gov't officials to further the group's goals
Joint resolution
when both the House of Representatives and the Senate approve two-thirds majority vote.
Recession or contraction
when business is slow, hardly anyone is working When the actual output is below potential output. Real GDP shrinks for at least 6 months in a row, prices are falling, and unemployment is higher. Average length is 18 months
Conflict
when goals of various bureaucratic agencies just don't match up and they end up working at cross purposes.
inflation
when prices of good rise, but the value of money doesn't keep up with that rise
Dual Sovereignty Doctrine
when state and federal powers overlap states that more than one entity may prosecute an individual if that individual is accused of violating the law of each entity. means that the 5th Amendment's double jeopardy clause doesn't apply to these situations.
budget deficit
when the government spends more than it takes in because tax revenue is lower.
Amendments
additions or changes to the bill
Constitutional amendment
additions to the US Constitution after it was enacted.
Dual federalism
argued that federal and state gov't were partners that had equal powers.
Partisanship
bias in favor of a particular party.
Andrew Jackson & John Quincy Adams
ushered in the formation of the second evolution of the two-party system in the US
Checks and Balances
Each branch has some authority over the other two and can monitor their actions, check up on them, and thereby balance the power between them.
2nd Amendment
Granting the right to bear arms
1st Amendment
Guaranteeing free speech and religion
Democracy
a type of gov't or political system ruled by citizens, people who are members of a society. Citizens hold some level of power and authority, and they participate actively in the political, or decision-making, process of their gov't.
Harold Damerow
Says that gov't is responsible primarily for making public policy for an entire society. He also mentions that government is the steering mechanism for a given society. It forms the policies that keep a particular society heading in the right direction.
Core principles
The deep-seated beliefs that Americans hold about what their government can and cannot do and the ways in which they participate in the political process. These ideas hold America together, give people a sense of national identity of being Americans and of belonging to a particular society, and allow the gov't to operate efficiently and with a certain continuity.
To establish justice
The establishment of a justice system at the federal, state and local levels. This encompasses entities at the federal level such as the Supreme Court and the Federal Bureau of investigation, as well as local policy forces and municipal courts.
Proposed
The federal legislator or legislative committee puts forward a bill asking for an amendment. The be officially proposed the bill must pass both hours of legislature, with a two-thirds majority vote known as joint resoltuion
To promote the general welfare
The gov't fulfills this function in many different ways, including monitoring the economy, businesses, and banks; maintaining the postal service, education system, roads, and public utilities like water, sewer, and electricity; regulating the safely of food and medicine; protecting the environment; and issuing money, it collects taxes to help fund all of these responsibilities
9th Amendment
acknowledging that the people have rights others than those spelled out in the Constitution
Capitalism
an economic system that gives individuals and businesses the freedom they need to buy and sell their goods and services in an open and competitive market. People can choose for themselves what they produce, and they can set their own prices, usually based on the supply of similar goods and services and the demand for them. One of the roles of government in capitalism is protecting consumers and workers. The basic principle is that government has to provide the minimum level of protection, while other aspects are defined by the free market the government can and often does pass laws to defend property rights, prevent fraud, and protect workers, consumers, and businesses. This should be accomplished by minimum to moderate intervention, without excess taxes or demanding high contributions.
Revolutionary War
broke out in 1775 This war was waged by American colonists against British rule.
3rd Amendment
concerning the quartering of troops
Supreme Court
deals with cases involving Constitutional law, treaties, ambassadors, and cases outside of state jurisdiction, like maritime cases, cases between states, or cases between individuals and another state. Judges appointed to Supreme Court serve for life.
Representative Government
elected by voters who actively participate in the political process. Can sign or veto laws; propose legislation, command the military, make treaties, and appoint government officials
House of Representatives
elected every 2 years must be at least 25 years old Have been a US citizen for 7 years Must reside in the state from which they are chosen. Has sole power of impeachment - can put the president on trial for breaking law
Continental Congress
endorsed overthrowing existing royal gov'ts. The congress served as the general political body and was already meeting before the war.
Constitutional Convention
gathering for the purpose of writing a new constitution or revising and existing constitution. Never as been used to amend our Constitution.
4th Amendment
granting rights against search and seizure
Separation of Powers
is the division of state and federal gov't into 3 different branches Article I lists the rights of the legislative branch Article II lists the rights of the executive branch Article II lists the rights of the judiciary branch
Sovereignty
the highest exercise of political power; it is supreme and ultimate authority that cannot be overruled by a higher power.
The secure the Blessings of Liberty
The gov't has the responsibility to protect basic human rights, like those listed in the Constitution's Bill of Rights as well as the life, liberty, and pursuit of happiness outlined in the Declaration of independence.
Reasons for lack of participation
- lack of interest - the dislike of the candidates - inconvenience - the hassle of registration - the problem of too many elections with too many candidates - the impression that the whole process is too negative and too party-driven
5 factors that have contributed to the shift from the majority to the few
1.) Low voter participation 2.) An increased focus on single-issue voters, those who concentrate on one concern to the exclusion of others 3.) the problem of uninformed citizens 4.) the complex and expensive process of obtaining a nomination to run for office 5.) the massive campaign expenses that candidates must fund in order to run for office.
Principles of Democracy
1.) Participation 2.) Equality 3.) Tolerance 4.) Accountability 5.) Transparency 6.) Fair Elections 7.) Economic freedom 8.) Proper use of power 9.) Human rights 10.) The rule of law
Functions of the US government, Constitution's preamble
1.) To form a more perfect union 2.) To establish justice 3.) To insure domestic Tranquility 4.) To provide for the common defense 5.) To secure the Blessings of Liberty
Politics
5 definitions: 1.) The art of government 2.) The interaction of citizens in the public sphere 3.) a process of conflict resolution through negotiation, conciliation, and compromise 4.) The power struggle that determines how limited resources are allocated 5.) A corrupt activity that causes trouble by its tendency towards manipulation and lies
To form a more perfect union
The gov't keeps the county united and helps form a sense of community, patriotism, and national pride. It does this in part by maintaining national monuments and hosting celebrations on Independence day and other national holiday
To provide for the common defense
The gov't protects citizens again outside attacks, regulates the military and foreign policy, builds defenses, and accumulates the means of defenses, and wages war if necessary.
President
The president's job is to enforce the laws established by Congress Elected for 4 years, must be a natural born US citizen (Section 1, clause 5) Must be at least 35 years old Must have been residing in the US for a period of 14 years. Is the Commander in Chief on the military, has power to make treaties (with consent of the Senate), has the power to pardon, and appoint ambassadors, judges, and other officials, but they must be approved by Congress. Statute build into the constitution that allows for foreign born Americans to run for president (must be born to at least 1 parent who was born on US soil, and the individual had to be born within a possession of the US. (ex. John McCain)
Federalism
a method of gov't that allows two or more entities to share control over the same geographic region. In the US this means that federal gov't and state gov't share powers over the citizens. People are subject to the gov't powers of both the federal gov't and their state gov'ts.
Abolute
a monarch with full power
Theocracy
a type of gov't ruled by a deity, whos representatives claim divine inspiration and interpret the laws found in the nation's holy texts.
Articles of Confederation
clearly defined national governing rules. served as our nation's first constitution, though this document was limited. formalized our national gov't but did not provide much power. The articles purposely allowed the individual states more power than the federal gov't.
Constitutional amendment
extra language added onto the end of the Constitution amended 27 times
Constitutionalism
gov't powers are limited by a written constitution, which is established as the highest law in the land. It specifies the form that the gov't must take, and it sets boundaries that gov't leaders cannot cross.
Democracy
government by the people, in which citizens participate in the political process. American has a representative democracy - vote for leaders to represent them in the gov't but they also actively voice their opinions to their elected officials.
6th Amendment
guaranteeing a jury and the right to confront witnesses in criminal trials
7th Amendment
guaranteeing a jury in civil trials
Elitism
people who have the most resources, be it wealth or education or social standing, should have the most political power and make decisions for society. Only a small group of these elite should make decision for society. The members of a wider community are free to state their opinions, but the final say rests with those who stand at the top.
Voter participation
refers to the number of voters who cast a ballot in an election.
Oligarchy
ruled by a group of wealthy, powerful aristocrats called the Top Twenty. Mostly inherited their positions from their fathers or earned them through military success, make decisions for their country without much outside consultation. Their choices are absolute, their word is law, and they rule for life. vested interest in maintaining their power and presenting a stable, united front to their citizens.
Article VI (highest law of the land)
says the Constitution is the highest law of the land. Federal and state officers and judges must uphold the Constitution
Solomon the High Priest
serves as the head of both the national religion and the state. Pleased that most citizens are loyal and live in unity, and he is able to enforce laws strongly when they stray.
Single-issue voters
those who concentrate on just one concern to the exclusion of others
United States Constitution
was designed to limit the power of gov't while ensuring basic personal rights for American citizens. Drafted in 1787 Centered on the theme the gov't should be run by the people for the people
