AP Government and Politics
Bureaucratic Discretion
It is up to bureaucrats to make decisions based on their discretion. The Federal Trade Communications Commission would indicate grounds for establishing a non-commercial educational radio station. Can also penalize a radio "Shock jock"
Federalist #10
James Madison; argues that the constitution would work in a very large republic. He said that a strong Union would be able to control tyrannical factions or groups who were out for their own good. He believed that a republic that serves the public Good would eliminate the effects of dangerous factions.
Write or Certiorari
Lawyers from lower court decisions petition the Supreme Court to Head their case. When looking at these petitions the Supreme Court can issue this; it is an order for that lower court to send up their records so the case can be heard. It is granted when 4/9 of the justices agree. Only a small percentage of requests are accepted. The court generally will hear cases that have great public impact or need intense Constitutional interpretation.
Minority Leader
Leader of the party that does not have a majority
Majority Leader
Leader of the party that has a majority in the Senate
How can the Supreme Court be checked?
Legislative branch can check the Supreme Court by increasing the size of the Supreme Court, impeaching justices, confirming justices, and proposing amendments to the Constitution
Committee and Chairs
Legislators are assigned to committees which research aspects of potential legislation Specialization allows them to become experts regarding certain policies; legislators evaluate information and makes recommendations to the legislature. Committees also oversee the agencies of the Executive Branch and conduct investigations. Chairperson of the committee is the majority party representative with the most seniority or longest term of service; 6 year term (1995 in Senate)
Stare Decisis
Let the decision stand; courts often refer to other relevant cases when citing opinions. Decisions set a precedent. Can only go so far, with the Supreme Court overriding it. Ex: Plessy v. Ferguson and Brown v. board of Education of Topeka
Taxation
Liberal View: higher taxes are needed to pay for programs that help people. Liberals support higher taxes on the wealthy. Liberals support welfare and Social Security Conservative View: loser taxes, especially on the weather create more money to be circulated through the economy. Furthermore, lower taxes on businesses encourage the creation of jobs. Conservatives want to reform Social security and limit welfare entitlements
Healthcare
Liberal View: quality health care should be available to everyone Conservative View: health care insurance should continue to operate freely. Enforcing cheaper government run health care will lead to bad medicine and higher costs.
Gun control
Liberal View: the 2nd amendment does not give people the right to own any type of weapon. There must be more aggressive background checks, and longing of certain weapons and ammunition Conservative View: gun control laws do not prevent criminals from obtaining weapons. People have the right to defend themselves.
Death penalty
Liberal View: the death penalty is murder and "cruel and unusual" punishment in violation of the 8th amendment Conservative View: executing someone who has committed murder is justified and is neither cruel nor unusual
Economic regulation
Liberal View: the economy must be overseen by the government to protect consumers from big business greed and manipulations in the market Conservative View: a laissez-faire, or government "hands off approach" is necessary to ensure that markets are free and people and businesses have opportunities to accumulate capital and create jobs
Same-Sex Marriage
Liberal View: two people should be able to marry each other regardless of which set they are marrying Conservative View: marriage is between a man and a woman
Abortion
Liberal: a woman should have the right to choose to have an abortion, and has a right to privacy Conservative: abortion is the murder of a human being. Life begins at conception. Taxpayer money should never be used to support abortion
Strict construction or interpretation
Limits the government power
Office Group Ballots
List the candidates of all political parties by the office which is being contested
Public-Interest Group
Looks to benefit all of society and is not just focused on aiding a select few with a narrow issue. ex: Sierra Club (promotes conservation and education about the environment)
Legislative Branch's power
Makes laws, approves presidential appointments, overrides vetoes, approves treaties, declares war, regulates interstate trade, and impeaches certain federal officials including the President.
Attorney General of the Department of Justice
Makes sure there is adequate protection of citizen rights in terms of criminal activity and consumer exploitation
Legislative branch
Makes the laws; contains the House of Representatives (435 members) and the senate (100 members; 2 in each state)
Mapp v. Ohio
Mapp house was searched in Ohio, as police were looking for a fugitive. They found indecent porn material that violated the law without a proper search warrant they seized the evidence and Mapp was convicted; Supreme Court heard Mapp's appeal and ruled that the evidence was not admissible in court because of the 4th amendment (unreasonable searches and seizures) and it applied to the 14th amendment due process clause
Shay's Rebellion 1786-1797
Massachusetts uprising where farmers protested imprisonment for debt, lack of currency, and high taxes. This proved the weakness of the Articles of Confederation. No national army was able to take down the protesters which increased the intensity on how much the US wanted to scrap the document.
Supreme Court cases that debated state vs. federal
McCulloch v. Maryland (1819): State of Maryland wanted to get rid of a branch of the Bank of the United States to put a tax on banknotes. Chief Justice, John Marshall rules that a state could not tax a federal entity. Gibbons v. Ogden (1824): Thomas Gibbons claimed that an act of Congress permitted him steamship commerce between New York and New Jersey. Aaron Ogden was issued an exclusive ferrying license from New York State. Marshall said that Gibbons had the legitimate license because the federal government regulates interstate commerce a
Separate but equal
Meant that African Americans and whites could be segregated as long as their facilities were the same
Media and Public Policy
Media covers issues that they hope people will find important relevant. ex: gun control, health care Media Bias: different ideologies come through which can dictate people's opinons
Great Society (Lyndon Johnson)
Medicare and Medicaid came along with this program Medicare; was there to help the poor, minorities, and disadvantaged
Fiscal federalism
Money from the central government that is allocated to the lower levels in the form of grants
grants in aid
Money from the federal government is distributed to the states for projects.
Entitlements grants
Money is given directly to individuals. Ex: social security, welfare financial support, and Medicaid healthcare, and Medicare
Federal Reserve Board
Monitors bank interest rates and how the US dollar is circulated. Fed controls interest rates and influence he price inflation and deflation.
Separation of Powers
Montesquieu; believed that the powers of the government should be balanced between the legislative branch, executive branch, and judicial branch
Moderate
More liberal than a conservative, yet more conservative than a liberal. Often decide close electrons Usually consider themselves as independents or not part of a major political party
Trends in Congress
More women and minorities, since the 90s Republicans have had most of the House during two-year sessions
Lobbyist guidelines
Must be registered, obey campaign finance laws, have limits on gifts, and must disclose their financial activities in reports can lobby on behalf of people, groups, or corporations
Configuration of Political Parties
National Convention takes place every four years to nominate a Presidential Candidate 1. National Committee elect the National Chairsperson who is in charge of raising and promoting party interests. For state central committees the party state chairperson is elected 2. Congressional campaign committee that helps those who are running for office or reelection 3. Power trickles down to other local elections in counties, towns, and villages through every voting precinct or voting district
Everson v. Board of Education
New Jersey law permitted the busing of students to parochial schools (Run by religious organizations); taxpayer money would be used for the buses and it seemed that the state was supporting a region. Supreme Court decided it was constitutional as benefiting students was the main purpose of the law and not the support of a religious institution
Municipal Corruption (City corruption)
New York was an example of this during the 1870s because of bribery and kickbacks being common
Mass Media
Newspapers Magazines/Books Radio Television Cable Television Internet
Pluralism
No one dominates the tools that shape policy. Society and the government are way too complex to be controlled by an elite. So many different individuals and ideas shape the nation.
Lemon v. Kurtzman
Non-public schools received money for teachers who taught secular material; rules this as a violation of the establishment clause
3/5 Compromise
Northern States wanted slaves to count for taxation The Southern Stats wanted slaves to count for representation each slave was counted as 3/5 of a person for both taxation and representation
Commercial Compromise
Northern states wanted to regulate interstate commerce and tax both imports and exports Southern states did not want to tax exports since they exported a lot of farm goods resulted in the federal government the power to regulate interstate commerce and tax imports, not exports. This made a tariff or customs-duties.
President's informal powers
Not exactly defined in the Constitution such as executive orders and executive privilege
Independent regulatory agency
Not in a cabinet department; some are set up by Congress to regulate specific industries Ex: Federal Communications Commission (FCC): monitors broadcast material on television and on the radio Federal Trade Commission (FTC): makes sure that consumers are protected from unfair business decisions Security and Exchange Commission (SEC): protects investors and punishes those who illegally trade stocks and bonds President appoints these members, but they are difficult to remove from office; members serve fixed terms and have some independence from the President
How to become a bureaucrat
Nowadays based on a merit system (intelligence, competency, and experience) 19th century: Patronage system or Spoils System, (campaign supporters received government jobs despite being unqualified)
Electoral college
On Election Day all 50 states and the District of Columbia vote for electors who have sworn to vote for a candidate. People do not vote for the president directly. The number of electoral votes a state has is equal to the number of representatives+2 and for the two senators each state has. Whoever gets the majority of votes in the Electoral College is the winner. Candidates campaign in swing states or states where the election can go either way. Whoever gets a plurality of the votes gets all of that state's electoral votes If no candidate receives a majority of all possible electoral votes then the House Of Representatives chooses the president 538 electoral votes (435 representatives+100senators+3 votes form Washington) Whoever reaches 270 votes will be sworn into office on Inauguration Day
Closed primary
Only registered party members can vote
Political party
Organized and leads people who have the same interests. Goal is to win elections and control government and policy. Two major parties: Democrats and Republicans
Mississippi Plan
Organized violence against African American voters
History of voting
Originally people would only vote for the House or Representatives 17th amendment allowed the people to vote for senators (1913); previously they were chosen by state legislatures. President is still chosen by the electoral college Late 18th/19th century you had to own property in order to vote. Voting was not a sacred until the Australian ballot (secret ballot) became prevalent during the Progressive Era
Congressional Research Service (CRS) (Staff agencies)
Part of the Library of Congress; provides policy and legal analysis to committee and members of Congress
Commerce Clause
Part of the constitution; Congress is given the power to regulate commerce between the states, with foreign nations, and with Native Americans.
Superdelegates
Party leaders and elected officials who also attend the convention
How does a bill become a law?
Passed by House, Passed by Senate, Signed by President
Civil rights era
Passive resistance Civil disobedience Sit-ins at only whites-only restaurants
Open primary
People can show up to the polling place and vote in one party's direct primary
Standing Committees
Permanent groups that oversee the bills that deal with specific types of issues. Typically have subcommittees that are even more specialized in what they research and analyze
Cross-pressured voter
Personal background can influence how they feel on many issues. Can have liberal views on some issues, yet conservative views on others.
How the federal bureaucracy is checked
President can make appointments with certain offices that are subject to approval by the Senate The Legislative Branch deals with the budget and deals with how much funding goes in; they can also conduct investigations and pass laws The Supreme Court can declare acts of Congress unconstitutional and lawsuits can be brought against the bureaucracy
White House Staff
President has a network of aides and advisors who don't need to be approved by the Senate. Work in the West Wing of the White House.
Title IX
Prevents gender discrimination in educational activities Ex: sports
Revolving Door
Private works (who used to lobbyists) leave their jobs to become public workers or public worker join the private industry. This leads to corruption because it can lead to a previous congressman using old contacts or old lobbyists listening to old friends in the private world.
What kind of income tax does our country have?
Progressive income tax
Special interests throughout history
Prohibition, women's rights, and civil rights
Exclusionary rule
Prohibits any evidence that was collected unconstitutionally to be admitted at a trial
Whistleblower protection act
Protected agency workers who reported the misconduct of their peers
Fair labor standard act (FLSA)
Protected workers' rights by setting maximum working hours before overtime pay kicks in, and establishing a minimum wage law
Secretary of interior
Protects natural resources, including national parks, and honors culture and Native American trivial communities
Secretary of Defense
Protects the security of the American people.
Congressional Budget Office (CBO) (Staff agencies)
Provides economic data for congress concerning spending and costs
Organization of the White House Staff
Pyramid, circular, ad hoc
Ways and Means (House of Representatives)
Recommend how to raise money through measures such as taxes and tariffs. Oversee Medicare, unemployment benefits, and Social Security
Voting Rights Act of 1965
Reiterated the wording of the 15th amendment and prevented discrimination when voting; literacy test is illegal and the law permits the federal government to register voters in precincts where discrimination is occurring (removed in 2013)
AFL-CIO (The American Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organizations)
Represents the workers of many unions such as the United Mine Workers of America and United Auto Workers as well as trade unions (electricians, plumbers), teacher unions and law enforcement
Strategies used to pass bills
Rider Logrolling Pork-Barrel Legislation Earmark
Sixth Amendment
Right to a fair trial and attorney
Exit polls
Sample how people voted on Election Day before the results come out. Can be dangerous an example of this is with the 2000 election with calling Florida for Al Gore when it belonged to George Bush.
Schenck v. US (1919)
Schenck was a member of the Socialist party. Made thoussands of leaflets containing damaging language against the WWI draft. Arrested for violating the Epionage Act (illegal to disrupt the war effort) Free speech was not absolute since Schenck was creating a clear and present danger; voicing vocal anarchy
Filibuster
Senate has no limit to the length of debate. If one party knows they will lose a vote they try to delay the measure as long as possible.
Party-Column ballots
Separate all of the offices into columns based on the political party. One can merely choose one column and core a straight ticket of one party. Discourages ticket-splitting
Plessy v. Ferguson
Separate but equal is constitutional; Plessy was mixed and sat at a white's only railroad car and was challenging the Separate Car Act Of Louisiana which segregated blacks from whites
Concurrent power
Shared amount of power; taxation.
Interest groups over the last 60 years
Since WWII there has been an enormus increase. This is why political parties have lost some of their power.
direct primaries
Small elections in the first half of the year that determine which candidate from each political party will be chosen at the nominating national convention. The candidates nominated will then run in November Presidential Election.
caucus (electoral)
Small meetings take place and people openly vote from state delegates who will represent candidates at the nominating convention
Which interest groups would focus on what agency?
Some focus on multiple agencies NAM might target the Federal Trade Commission which regulates business NAACP and ACLU might contact the Department of Justice which makes sure that rights are not being violated Environmental Groups could target the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) which monitors pollution and the safety of the environment AARP might lobby the Social Security Administration
Initiative
Some states allow people to introduce bills directly into the state legislature
Referendum
Some states allow people to vote on certain bills
Recall
Some states allow voters to petition to remove incumbents from office prematurely. Some cases there is a special election to determine if the official stays or is replaced
Categorical grants
Spent on specific categories or projects. Formula is associated which is based on the state's wealth and demographic. State has to march part of the Grant with their own money. Ex: federal aid highway act of 1956- 90% of the National Highway System was funded by the federal government. The rest was matched by the states. States and cities can also uses these grants to help fight crime, flooding, and pollution
War Power Act (Resolution 1973)
States that the President can't use extensive overseas force for more than 60 days followed by a 30-Day withdrawal period) without the consent of Congress. Congress must be consulted at least 48 hours before the military deployed Congress declares war
Roe v. wade
Supported a woman's right to choose to have an abortion and is protected by the 9th amendment rights for the people and the 4th amendment's right to privacy 1st and 5th amendment were cited too
Dennis v. US
Supreme Court ruled that speech advocating for an overthrow of the government was not protected by the First Amendment Dennis violated the Smith Act of 1940 that made such talk a crime
Opinion polls
Survey the public; measure what public opinion is on a variety of issue and can influence members of Congress especially those seeking re-election to legislate along with the public will
ad hoc structure (Organization of the White House Staff)
Task forces, committees, special advisors, and informal groups report directly to the President
revenue sharing (1972-1986)
Tax dollars went to the states for general purposes of for almost anything they wanted. Causes block frames to become smaller in size because of corruption and misuse of resources.
Concurrent Powers
Taxation Borrow money Build roads Courts
Republicans
Tend to be more conservative, strong in red states Mascot: elephant
Democrats
Tend to be more liberal. Strong in blue states. Mascot: donkey
Cooperative Federalism
The National, State, and local governments share the responsibility of solving problems. Ex: New Deal (to get the Us out of the Great Depression) States had to cooperate with the federal government to give money to local project
Baker vs. Caarr (1962)
The Supreme Court agreed with Baker who believed the state was overdue for redrawing legislative district lines that violated the 14th amendment with the equal protection rights. States that the Federal courts could hear cases and force states to redraw their district lines
Oregon v. Smith
The Supreme Court ruled that illegal drug use performed in a religious ceremony is still illegal and the employment Division of Oregon could still deny unemployment benefits to fire someone for drug use
Selective incorpration
The Supreme Court used the 14th amendment to apply certain federal protections of the Bill of Rights to the states. They selectively applied these protections one clause at a time in a piecemeal fashion. Clauses within the Bill of Rights were selectively incorporated by Warren Court
Miranda v. Arizona
The accused must be notified of their rights before being questioned by the police Miranda admitted to the charges of rape and kidnapping after a lengthy Interrogation 4th and 5th amendment were applied/incorporated
Litigation
The act of bringing about legal proceedings. Facts of cases are explained in documents called briefs.
Public policy
The actions taken by the government to solve problems and react to issues
Deputy Chief of Staff
The assistant of the Chief of Staff; oversees the Executive Office of the President (EOP)
Judicial Activistism
The belief that the Supreme Court should rely on it's personal views and be active in addressing social and political issues and polices.
Dred Scott v. Sanford
The case that ruled that slaves were property and could not sue Also that slave compromises which excluded slavey in certain states were unconstitutional and with the 5th amendment people could not be deprived of their property Overturned with 14th amendment
14th amendment
The citizenship clause stated that all persons native born or naturalized are citizens of both the US and their state Due process clause prevents states from depriving of life, liberty, or property without due process of law (5th amendment) Equal protection clause makes sure the laws are applied to everyone equally
Judicial restraint
The court should restrain itself from addressing such issues and leave policy-making to the legislative branch
Elitist Theory
The decisions are made at the top with less regard for the common citizens. Master politicians and property owners are the ones in charge and decisions are made with less regard for public opinion
Bureaucracy
The enormous and specified hierarchy of government jobs that run both states and the nation
Joint Chiefs of Staff (Secretary of Defense)
The government's top military advisors
Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
The law protects those with disabilities the same way that the Civil Rights Act Of 1964 protects women and minorities; protects those who are qualified for employment and provides accommodations in public places, restrooms, and in public transportation; led to unfounded mandates for states to modernize public buses, parks, restrooms, and other facilities
Watchdog Media
The media acts as a guardian against scandal, illegal activities, and undesirable situations. Reasons: 1. Scandals sell newspapers and get people to watch television 2. Expose the wrongdoing that infringes on the public good ex: Watergate Woodward and Bernstein
Horse-race journalism
The media downplays the issues and looks a the more entertaining polls and standings of the candidate's debate wins and losses
The Presidential Succesion Act Of 1947
The modern order of succession after the Vice President
Random sample
The people who are selected; anyone in public has a chance to be polled, or questioned. Mostly done on telephone.
How much special interests affect who is appointed to the Supreme Court
The president appoints justices for life and there are only 9 of them so the selection is a big deal. Usually the appointee will have a similar ideology or be in the same political party as the President. Special interest groups can affect which justice is appointed because potential justices have a record of how they voted on previous cases, their political ideology is not too much a mystery. Can cause a president to be susceptible to special interests who back those appointees who they believe will support their agenda Justices can be impeached for high crimes and misdemeanors. The size of the court could be increased by Congress and New laws and amendments can be passed to circumvent their decisions
How has media changed
The president commands the nation's audience with far more flair than Congress often assembles the press to highlight achievements and future objectives though sometimes the press becomes adversarial or looks to use its power to expose or bring down a politician
Deregulation
The process for which the government stops restricting activities
Judicial Review
The process whereby the Supreme Court determines if a law is constitutional
Second Amendment
The right to bear arms
19th amendment
The right to vote in 1920
Sampling error
The smaller the sample, the larger it is. Represents the inaccuracy of the polls. The larger the population the more accurate the poll is. Example: -/+3%
Who controls the House of Representatives
The speaker of the house
10th amendment (Reserved Power)
The state's have reserved powers such as the right to control other things such as education, marriage, and driving laws.
Chief of Staff
The supervisor of these advisors who don't need to be approved by the Senate; Executive Office of the President (EOP)
How do interest groups raise money
They offer incentives or enticing benefits for those who join through dues (union groups in particular), foundation grants, federal grants, and mailings/e-mailings which are done with the hope of recruiting donors and members
Qualities of Interest Groups
They raise money to give to candiates who will support their cause they file lawsuits to support their agenda and are involved in lobbying
How do interest groups use the legal system to their advantage?
They use the legal system to support their agenda; firms bring lawsuits or litigation on the behalf of individuals. Lawsuits are a way of changing policy without going through legislatures.
Diversity in the Supreme Court
Thurgood Marshall: first African American Justice Sandra Day O'Connor: First Woman Sonia Soromayor; First Hispanic Justice
executive privilege
To protect against publicizing classified items, the President and other Executive Branch workers can refuse to hand over some information to Congress or any court. Did not work with Nixon (US v.Nixon) with the Smoking Gun Tapes
How might candidates at the state level stray from the national party platform
To win, someone running as a New York Governor (liberal state) may support liberal issues such as same-sex marriage and gun control.
Federal Court System
Trails are held at one of the 94 US District Courts. Make decisions regarding issues such as federal crimes and federal civil suits. Can be appealed to the US Appellate Courts. Final appeals goes to the US Supreme Court
Activism
Typically those with more education and of a higher economic status become politically active. Many movements start out as grassroots or localized movements. 1. Volunteer work for political or non-political organizations 2. Campaigning for a candidate 3. Giving time at a local religion center 4. Environmental activism 5. Taking action within the community to help with local problems
de jure segregation
Under the law was struck down, many communities still voluntarily segregated themselves through de facto segregation
15th amendment
Universal male suffrage
Denied powers
Used to protect against tyranny; The federal government can't grant titles of nobility or levy export taxes, cannot pass ex-post facto laws, and no bills of attainder The state government are denied the right to enter into treaties with foreign nations. They also can't print money or tax imports or exports.
Franking Privilege
Using generous amounts of stationery and postage to communicate with constituents, which leads to campaigning as incumbents send out millions of mailings around campaiging time,
Ticket-splitting
Voting for candidates from different parties on Election Day; independent voters usually tend to be ticket-splitter
Organizational view of voting
Voting to make colleagues in one's political party happy.
Conservative
Wants less change and reform than a liberal and is satisfied with a limited role of government. Tend to oppose government regulations on business and support a free market. Agree with traditional moral and family values. Qualifies: pro-life, favor the death penalty, and believe marriage is between a man and a woman
Attitudinal View of Voting
When representatives vote their conscience and ideology (trustee)
Buying andd sellinggovernment bonds and securities
When the Fed buys bonds, money supply increases and the economy expands. When the Fed sells bonds, money supply decreases and the economy contracts
Dicount rate
When the Fed gives money to banks. The banks then loan the money to the public at a higher rate to make a profit.
Unfounded mandare
When the government gives orders without giving money. These mandates try to serve the national interest. Ex: Clean Air Act of 1970: ordered cities to comply with new healthy standard and it was up to the state's to pay the bill. Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA): ordered all state public facilities to comply with federal standards for the disabled
Continual competition (Pluralism)
Where many voices can be powerful enough to affect policy
competitive federalism
Where the federal, state, and local governments compete for lower and taxpayer dollars.
Bills of attainder
Which if allowed, could imprison someone without a trial
Poll should be unbiased....
Worded a way that everyone can understand the question's objective
Secretary of Treasury
Works with economic, tax, and financial issues
Political ideology
Your set of beliefs regarding what issues the government should support, and how it should rule.
Politico
a combination of a trustee and delegate; a representative who does what they want until their constituents come along.
ex-post facto law
a law that makes an act criminal although the act was legal when it was committed
Sponsored Party
a local political party that is greatly controlled by an organization that has strong communtity ties. ex: Large union-run steel plant funding a Deomocratic party and many candiates who locally run for office
Quorum
a majority in each house though the House only needs 100 in their Committee of the Whole to conduct business
Get Out The Vote (GOTV)
a means of getting potential supporters who don't normally vote to cast a ballot
Issue networks
a network of people looking for the same public policy changes; can include special interest, intellectuals, congressional staffs, journalists, and researchers of various fields the issue brings the network together ex: Issue: Want to stop texting while driving in National PArks Support: Parent groups who want sage roads Cellphone Carriers: don't want their products to cause hearms auto insurance companies: wanting to lower rates National Park Service: want safer tourism Result: Bureaucrats will hear their outcry and regulate accordingly
Medicare
a part of social security in 1965 that offered senior citizens health insurance
Healthcare in the US
a private matter with people purchasing health care themselves or through employers
Trustee
a representative who makes their political decisions based upon the greater common good and does not do what their constituents want. They work for the national interest
Partisan
a representative who votes along their political party. They vote to make their colleagues happy. Has been increasing among the years.
Sequester
across the board cuts by percentage to all federal programs
Majority rule
actions reflect the opinions of the majority
Rider (Strategies used to pass bills)
added provision that might have nothing to do with the intent of the original bill. If the bill is popular they will easily pass. Wen a bill has a lot of these in it, it is known as a Christmas Tree bill
Simple Resolutions
affect only one house and don't have to be signed by the President because they are not binding laws
The Water Pollution Control Act of 1972
aimed to rid rivers and lakes of pollution
Direct Democracy
all qualified people have a voice on government and can vote on issues. ex: Ancient Greece
Open Rule (House Rules Committee)
allows amendments
Restricted rule (House Rules Committee)
allows some, but not other amendments
Nuclear Power
alternative, destructive potential
Super PACs
an independent expenditure; can spend as much money as they want as long as they are not directly connected to a candidate or political party. Typically flood the airwaves with election commercials to convinced people to vote in a certain way (usually have negative ads) Help out indirectly
Interest Group
an organization that tries to influence government and gets them to support a specific agenda. Unlike a political party which has a wide range of objectives, special interest groups are only concerned with only one or a few issues.
Public Bills
are those that apply to general issues and everyone in the nation
Private Bills
are those that deal with specific individuals or places
Engel v. Vitale
banned formal prayer in schools, goverment whould not make any religion the 'official' religion.
Hold
before a filibuster, a senator might put this on a bill to attempt to prevent it from reaching the floor. The Majority Leader can look beyond it and allow the filibuster follow.
IF the Federal Reserve Board
believes that too much money is in circulation (Causes inflation) they can make money more expensive to borrow by raising interest rates on loan. The higher the interest rate, the more debt one has to pay off their loan. If the economy goes into a recession, they can cut interest rates to make money readily available. This makes mortgages and car loans much more cheaper and cause people to spend more
Pork-barrel legislation (Strategies used to pass bills)
benefits only certain districts, usually in the form of public works projects such as bridges or roads. Brings money into certain areas and benefit specific representatives
Virginia Plan ( James Madison)
bicameral house where legislature was based on population. The more people there are the more representatives a state would have.
Government corporations
businesses run by the national government ex: Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (bank deposits). Postal Service
Soft Money
can be donated to enormous amounts of political party activities ex: getting out the vote
Bureaucrats
civil servants or those who work for the government on behalf of the people
Monetary Policy
controlling the supply and circulation of money and how much it costs to borrow it
Medicaid
created to help people with low income cope with medical expenses
How does the media report campaigns?
debates are televised to all markets and each candidate is given equal time to speak media spends time on the candidate's life story, image, and messups attack-ads look to destroy the integrity of the other candidate
Rules Committee
decides how and at what speed the bill will be considered by the House
Legislative Veto
declared unconstitutional in 1983; gave Congress the power to put provisions into laws which allowed them to negate some decisions made by the Executive Branch. Gave the Legislative Branch veto power over Executive decisions.
ACLU (American Civil Rights Liberties Union)
defends liberty and the rights of all people
Rules (House of Representatives)
determine what rules or bills come to the floor. They also put bills on the House Calendar
Appropriations (House of Represenatives and Senate)
determines how the government spends its money
direct lobbying
direct contact between the lobbyist and the lawmaker
Reciprocity
doing favors associated with Logrolling
Party Conference Chairperson
each party has their own meeting and designates a leader to preside over these closed-door sessions
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
enforces environmental regulations from air pollution to water contamination; many environmental laws are unfunded mandates (states must pay their way into compliance)
Budget Resolutions
establish the maximum amount of money they feel should be spent in different areas.
Federal Election Comission
established by congress in 1974 to enforce the Federal Election campaign Act can only give $2,700 to a candidate per election, while a PAC can give $5,000 per year Increases in the limits for hat individuals can give will decrease the power of PACs
census
every ten years; detailed population count is taken
Texas v. Johnson
expanded fee speech; Supreme Court ruled that the burning of the American flag was protected by the First amendment
Concurrent Resolutions
expresses sentiments or affect actions in both Houses and don't need to be signed by the President
Federalists
favored the constitution (George Washington, James Madison, Alexander Hamilton)
line-item veto
for governors; lets them pick and choose what they want to sign into law
Political Machine
gains members and votes by offering money, jobs, or favors in return. ex: William M. Tweed in head of Tammany Hall poltiical machine in New York City where people voted early and often to support the Democratic Party during the 1870s. Tammany Hall helped immigrants find jobs in exchange for votes.
Majority Whip
helps to round up votes within the majority party
Minority Whip
helps to round up votes within the majority party
Cloture
if 3/5 or 60/100 senators wanted the filibuster to end, they can vote for this
Social Welfare Organization
if an interest group helps the social well-being and gives to a political campaign they can be a 501(c)(4) where donors can be anonymous ex: NAACP, AARP, and the ACLU
national chairperson
in charge of raising money and promoting party interests
Hopper
in the House where the bill is introduced by any member and placed in a box. This gets referred to a House committee. The House sub-committee is a subdivision of the committee reports back to the full division with revisions. If the bill survives it goes to the Rules Committee that decides how and at what speed, the bill will be considered by the House. The bill then goes to the floor andd is debated and voted on. In the Sennate, the bill is introduced, and is similarly referred to a committee and subcomittee before being debated and voted on When a bill passes with a simple majority in one House, it goes to the other one to be considered IF the bill passes in both the House and Senate it goes to the President's desk. Sometimes the conference commitee negotiates the differences that might exist between te House and Senate versions of the bill. The compromises is sent back to each chamber for one last approval the approved bill is either signed by the President or Vetoed. If vetoed the Congress can overide it by 2/3
Joint Committes
include House and Senate members of both parties that relay their research back to their respective Houses
Staff Agencies
independent and non-partisan employees who work with Congress to make sure the federal government is doing its job properly ex: Congressional Budget Office (CBO) General Accounting Office (GAO) Congressional Research Service (CRS)
Internet
instant updates on events and political ideologies and interest groups having web pages outline their ideas and objectivies
Keynesian Economics
involves deficit spending ; to spend more money than you have theory of John Maynard Keynes; used by FDR During the Great Depression. Did this to stimulate the economy (pump priming). To increase revenue the government can sell bonds and rise taxes
Grassroots lobbying
is when the general public tries to pressure politicians and affect the legislature. Used by the media, phone all campaigns, and social media. Public pressure can way an official to vote a certain way and gives average people a voice on issues. ex: NRA, NAACP, Sierra Club, AARP, Tea Party Movement (reducing government spending)
Muckrakers
journalists who dug up dirt on society and exposed their findings to the world. gives credit to making food safer to eat and bringing down monopolies
Veto
kills the entire bill.
National committee
large group of representatives from each state
Foundation grants
large sums of money that come from organizations or family funds set up by wealthy donors
Congressional Caucus
legislators band together to represent a certain ideology or interest
Federal Regulation of Lobbying Act of 1946 and the Lobbying Disclosure Act of 1995
lobbying laws requiring registration and supporting of financial activities. The former created the guidelines, the latter clarifies it.
Balanced Budget Act of 1985
looked to get rid of the national deficit and bring about a balanced budget. The bill called for a sequester
Clean Air Act of 1970
looked to reduce air pollution and auto emissions
AARP (American Association of Retired Persons)
looks to enhance the quality of life for people who are over the age of 50
NAACP (National Association for the Advancement of Colored People)
looks to foster civil rights and end discrimination
Fracking
looks to fracture rocks to get natural gas; can lead to environmental contamination
Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act
looks to lower health care costs and make health insurance more affordable
Press Secetary
meets with reporters and answers questions. Aids the president before he or she is addressed by the media.
majoritarianism
might lead some to fear a tyranny of the majority. The Constitution protects this.
Party Poloarization
most of one political party votes the opposite of the other party. This ideological division can make it hard to compromise on even moderate issues.
Joint Resolutions
need approval of both houses and carry the weight of law. Have to be signed by the President Also used for amendments, but are sent out for ratification among the states, instead of the President
Ideological parties
not concerned with winning, they are more concerned with conveying their views. ex: Free-Soil party (Anti-slavery), Populist Party (protect farmers and expand political rights), The Prohibition Party (Ending the sale of alcohol), Libertarian Party, and Green Party
Impoundment of Funds
not spending
Associated Press
not-for-profit news cooperative where news is gathered by thousands of journalists and shared by its members
Drilling for oil
one way to get more energy, but leads to high publicized oil spills
Civil Rights Act of 1964
outlawed discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin
Foreign Relations (Senate) and Foreign Affairs (House of Representatives)
oversee foreign policy; the Senate has more power due to it being able to approve presidential appointments and ratify treaties Standing Committees: Agriculture, Armed Servies, Budget, Homeland Securtity/Energy
Constituents
people they represent who voted them in ex: NRA: Republicans
President Pro Tempore
presides over the Senate (typically the Vice President does but they rarely do) selected by the majority party
Line Item Veto Act of 1996
prohibits a President from going line by line to veto something a President doesn't like
Bill
proposal for a law; most die
Germaneness Requirement (House Rules Committee)
proposed amendments must be relevant
AMA (American Medical Association)
protects public health and looks out for the interests of physicians
NRA (National Rifle association)
protects the right to bear aerms, and encourages safety and training for those who use firearms
Yellow Journalism
providing inaccurate and sensational reporting to sell newspapers in the late 19th century
How do interest groups impact elections
raise a lot of money in campaign contributions for candidates through leasing an office for volunteer staff to buying airtime for commercials
Budget Act Control (2011)
raised the debt ceiling; also promised to cut spending and gradually reduce the federal deficit. Threatened a sequester for 2013
Who controls the senate
rarely the Vice President; a President protempore is chosen By the Senate.
Mandatory spending (Uncontrollable)
refers to budget expenditures that can't be eliminated by law. ex: Social Security and Welfare (Entitlement programs)
Hard money
refers to money given to a campaign within the legal limits set by the Federal Election Comisssion
Fiscal policy
relates to government spending and taxation
Casework
representatives helping constituents deal with problems and navigate caseworkers, can answer questions and point people in the right direction. Though they can't get an agency to rule a certain way they can cut through some red tape and help citizens deal with the large confusing bureaucracy. ex: A Representative helping a constituent contact the Social Security Administration if they have a problem obtaining benefits; helps with re-election
Delegate
representatives make decisions that reflect the desires of their constituents. They refrain from voting their own conscience.
US Chamber of Commerce
represents businesses of all sizea
NAM (National Association of Manufacturers)
represents manufacturers of all sizes
Bipartisan Campaign Reform Act
restricts soft money that was given to the national party committee for federal campaigns. It makes candidates allso "approve this message" on their ads. also, used to restrict labor union and corporate sponsored advertisements in the days leading up to an election. This was removed by United v. Federal Election commission because of being a violation of free speech
Red Tape
rules seen as ridiculous by the public have to be followed to get something done
Anti-Federalists
scared that the Constitution might put too much power into the hands of the government. Ex: John Hancock, George Clinton, and George Mason
unanimous consent agreements
sets the terms for the Senate's consideration of bills. This could mean a lack of amendments to a bill or limit on debate. Save the legislative process.
Establishment Clause (First Amendment)
states that Congess can't make a law establishing a relgion.
Buckley v. Valeo (1976)
states that donations are a form of free speech protected by the First Amendment. Approved legal limits to contributions
Supply-side economics (Reaganomics)
supported wealthy businesses so that profits would trickle down to all classes; less government regulation and tax breaks would lead to more investment and job creation. Also led to cut certain programs to decrease the government's workforce
Logrolling (Strategies used to pass bills)
supporting another politician's projects so long as that politician shows mutual support. This speeds up the legislative process and allows Congress to pass more bills.
American Farm Bureau Federation
supports agricultural workers and their famuilies
Census
taken every 10 years to determine the state population and representation
Conference Committee
temporary committees that look for compromises regarding different versions of the same bill that has been passed in both the House and Senate
Select/Special Committes
temporary committees that study a specific issue before reporting back to the House or Senate examples of issues: great public interest: global warming
Reserve requirement
the Fed can also increase and decrease this for its member banks; the set of money that banks must hold on to. IF the Fed increases this, then banks have less money to lend out. IF they decrease it then banks can help the economy expand by lending out more money
Does the Senate or House of Represenativs have more standing committies
the House of Representatives has more due to them having more members
Roll Call
the attendance that confirms a quorum
Constiution
the document that Americans live by and it is essentially the rules of the government. It has the final say and is the highest law of the land.
Federal grants
the government dishes out money to support some programs or projects run by interest groups
Debt ceiling
the national debt limit and legal amount of money the United States can borrow (favored by Democracts)
Discretionary Spending
the part of the budget that can be changed
Gerrymandering
the re-drawing of Congressional districts to aid the party in power of the state legislature, which draws the lines; solidifies incumbents in place and can even be done as a political reward in prospective representatives
Civil rights
the rights of citizens to political and social freedom and equality.
Closed rule (House Rules Committee)
there's a limit on debate and refusal to introduce amendments
Safe District
those where the incumbent will overwhelmingly win
Incumbent
those who currently hold office; helps with reelection since voters are familiar with the names on the ballot. Have greater success in campaign fundraising. Helps House of Representatives more than Senators
corporate lobbyists
those who lobby on the behalf of corporations
Marginal District
tight elections
Impeachment
to charge with a crime; the House of Representatives can impeach certain federal officials for treason, bribery, or other high crimes and misdemeanors. After the House of Representatives impeaches, the Senate holds a trial and decides if the official is guilty. If found guilty the official is removed from office ex: Bill Clinton and Andrew Johnson
lobbying
trying to persuade politicians to agree with them. The end goal is to have officials create or vote for policies that favor the interest group they also help legislator by offering technical information on issues. They will provide specific plans to help presidents and members of Congress draw up policies.
PACs (Political Action committee)
used by groups such as businesses and labor unions to raise money for a candidate's election campaign. They have a great influence on legislators, as politicians need immense sums of money to have a successful campaign Are tax-exempt organizations (527s)
Precinct
voting district
The New Jrersey Plan (William Paterson)
wanted representatives to be equal so small states wouldn't be underrepresented.
Earmark (Strategies used to pass bills)
when a part of a spending ill allocates money for something specific ex: Congress allocating money in its budget to go directly to bridge construction in California
Duplication
when different bureaucratic offices do the same tasks. Critics call this a waste of resources
Caucus
when people band together to represent a certain ideology or interest
Representation view of voting
when representatives do not vote their conscience and ideology (Delegate)
National Debt/Deficit
when the government spends more money than it has; the measure of how much money the government has borrowed to keep up with spending
Hopper
where bills are introduced before being referred to a committee
Representative democracy
where people are elected to serve the needs of the citizens. Voters have power, but those elected to office are the ones who govern. ex: United States
Majority-minority districts
where the majority of the constituents are minorities such as African Americans or Hispanic Americans
Progressive Income tax (16th amendment)
where the more somreone makes, the higher their tax rate
Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA)
(1996) Defines marriage as man-woman. No state is forced to recognize same-sex marriage Section 3 didn't allow those who are gay to gain benefits
Formal powers of the president
- are things said in the constitution; direct - head of state - chief diplomat - veto - pardon
Declaration of Independence July 4, 1776
1. All men are created equal (idea from John Locke) 2. three unalienable rights: life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness (Idea from John Locke) 3. had grievances against King George III 4. Declared independence from Great Britain and set a precedent for liberty and equality
Third Parties and their impact
1. Bring new issues into play 2. Take away votes from another candidate which changes the election outcome ex: Thomas Roosevelt (Progressive party) taking votes away from William Taff; Ross Perot taking votes away from George W. Bush causing Bill Clinton to win Not invited to presidential debates. Less likely for them to win due to the electoral college's winner takes it all approach. This makes it nearly impossible for them to capture the election
Jobs in the federal bureaucracy
1. Cabinet 2. Independent Executive Agencies 3. Independent Regulatory Agencies 4. Government corporations
Judicial checks
1. Can declare an act of congress to be unconstitutional (judicial review) 2. Can declare an act of the President to be Unconstitutional
Legislative Checks
1. Can override vetoes by 2/3 vote 2. Senate can refuse to confirm a Presidential appointment 3. Can change the size of the Supreme Court 4. Can impeach and convict justices (as well as the President)
executive checks
1. Can veto bills 2. Can call congress into special session 3. Appoints supreme court justices 4. Grands parsons and reprieves
Powers of the President
1. Commander in a chief of the Military: use its night for defense or to enforce legislation 2. Signs and vetoes laws 3. Grants pardons (forgiveness with no penalties) or reprieves (penalty postponements) in federal cases 4. Makes treaties with foreign nations (approved by Congress 2/3) 5. Appoints government officials (that must be confirmed by a majority of the Senate) 6. Recommends laws to Congress 7. Relieves the State of the Union Address 8. Can call Congress into a special session 9. Received ambassadors
National Conventions
1. Each party has their national convention at a site determined by the party leaders. They choose how many delegates or representatives each state will have at the convention. 2. Increase of minority and female delegates at conventions 3. Primary elections determine how many delegates each candidate has in the bag at the convention. Some delegates or superdelegates pledge and some remain undecided 4. The party comes up with a platform which are its positions on major issues 5. The President and Vice President announced on the same ticket and appear together on the ballot (12th amendment) Presidential campaigns can apply for public funding
Military policy
1. George Washington wanted the US to stay neutral and free from alliances 2. The US has been neutral for much of his history until WWI and WWII 3. After WWII, the role of the President expanded and the policy of containment led the US into several military conflict ex: Korea and Vietnam 4.Miliary spending ballooned during the Cold War especially in the 1980s with the Star Wars program 5. After communision fell in Eastern Europe/Soviet Union, many defense measures wre cut. Defense spending increases greatly after 9/11.
Roles of Congress
1. Lay and Collect taxes (money bills start at the House of Representatives) 2. Borrow money 3. Declare war (raise/support an army) 4. Regulate interstate commerce (trade between two different states) and regulate commerce with foreign nations 5. Coin money 6. Fix the standard for weights and measures 7. Establish post offices 8. Change the size of the Supreme Court and establish a court system below it
Political parties origins
1. Originally no parties with George Washington since he warned against it 2. Strong government vs. state rights. Federalists like a loose interpretation of the Constitution while Democratic-Republicans value a strict interpretation 3. Took place as the followers of Andrew Jackson believe that the common man should be involved in politics. Whigs were opposed to Jackson's Beto of the re-chatter of the Bank of the United States 4. Democrats remained. Republicans come from the issue of slavery and supported big business. 5. Republicans dominated almost all presidential elections from 1860-1908. Democrats always counted on the "Solid South" until the Civil Rights Movement. The North was Republican. This changed. 6. FDR attracted more Democrats in the North as part of his New Deal Coalition: liberals, African Americans, women, economists, and union leaders flocked to the party in the 1930s. 7. Civil Rights- Harry Truman and Lyndon Johnson support for civil rights attracted the North. This is the reason why Northern states are more liberal on social issues. 8. Location: Republican dominate the South and Midwest; Democrats dominate the Northeast and Pacific Coast Swing States: Florida, Ohio, Colorado, Nevada
Qualifications for naturalization
1. Permanent resident for 5 years and present in the US for 30 months 2. Married for 3 years to a citizen 3. Over 18 during the time of filing 4. Able to speak, read, write English and have knowledge of American history and government 5. Good moral character
Obstacles that keep people voting
1. Registration: finding time to register in the proper place can be an obstacle 2. Or people are out of town, they forget to cast absentee ballots 3. States have different ways of proving who you are. Some require bringing identification. Some don't want to deal with this. 4. People are busy with their lives despite polls opening early and closing late 5. In traditional blue and red states many assume that their vote doesn't matter because of the label of their state (democratic or republican) 6. Not everyone is permitted to vote in closed primaries. One needs to be registered as a party member in this type of election 7. One must be a legal citizen of the United States to vote 8. People under the age of 18 can't vote. The age used to be 21 but is now the 26 amendment. 9. Felons in prison are denied voting privileges 10. Lack of Trust: many people don't trust the government; apparent during controversial times such as war, economic decline, and social unrest 11. Ballots are not in every language. A law shows that multilingual ballots must be provided by counties when the census shows 5% of the population or 10,000 voting age citizens of a single-language minority group. Language may not be in their native tongue.
Important facts about Supreme Court
1. Supreme Court chooses cases that it wants to hear 2. Only a small number of cases appear to true Supreme Court are actually heard 3. When a case is appealed it could take years for one to get to the Supreme Court 4. Usually out of the Public she and does fewer interviews than Congress or the President. Don't interfere with arguments between the two branches
Obergefell v. Hodges
14th Amend. requires both marriage licensing and recognition for same-sex couples
How did the south prevent African Americans from voting?
15th amendment gave universal suffrage to men but the Southern states had control over election voting and registration because both were reserved state powers Southern states disenfranchise (deny the right to vote) African Americans through: 1. Violence at polls; whites usually voted democrat and African Americans would vote Republican; no secret ballots so a lot of intimidation 2. Poll tax: tax to vote; blacks would have to present a receipt proving they paid their tax (24th amendment banned this) 3. Grandfather clause: if your grandfather could vote in the 1850 election, the literacy test should not disqualify you from voting
Television
1960 the first presidential candidate debate: JFK stronger on television and Nixon stronger on radio
Cable Television
24 hour news cycle ex: liberal and conservative talk shows
Little Rock 9
9 black students integrate Central High School in Little Rock, Ark.; focused on violence and a mob of protestors; governor called Arkansas guard to support segregation; Eisenhower brought federal troops to enforce integration
How does the Supreme Court Operate
9 justices; after hearing a case each justice votes. One justice will write the majority opinion, which is the winning decision. One of the justices ok the losing aide will write the dissenting opinion. 1. They hear cases that involve Constitutional issues 2. They can overturn cases that come out of the lower federal courts and the highest court of each state 3. case must go through the appeals process where cases first must go though lower federal or state courts. A higher court can then hear the case. Rarer than original jurisdiction which involve ambassadors, foreign ministers, or state vs. state which goes directly to the Supreme Court 4. Majority decisions of the court with overturn older cases, strike down laws, or affirm laws. The court can overturn a legislative or executive act through judicial review.
Pendleton Act
A civil service test getting established to confirm the competency of an applicant
Lame Duck
A politician who has either lost a reelection bid or their term in office is ending. There are a few months between the election and the date they leave office: in that time, there isn't much they can get done and their political clout has been limited.
Graying of America
A problem with social security which baby boomers (those born right after WWII) are living longer. Because of this too much money is being taken out of social security and in the future there may be too much money being taken out of it since there Amy not be enough cash coming in to sustain the program
Executive Order
A rule that holds the same weight as a law. Instrumental in desegregating the military and schools.
The Federalist Papers
A series of 85 published essays that argued the strong need a constitution.
Executive Office of the President (EOP)
A series of federal agencies and advisors who help the President. Leaders are appointed and confirmed by the Senate. Agencies: National Security Council (military and foreign policy advice), The Office of National Drug Control Policy, and the Office of Management and Budget Some of the positions have the status of Cabinet-rank
Presidential Approval Rate
A simple poll that's taken to survey if people believe the President is doing s good job. Positive Factors include a good economy, new President, a popular military event, and good use of the media Negative Factors include bad economy, unpopular war, and scandals Presidents who serve two terms often experience a decreased approval rating in their second term
Reconstruction
A time period after the civil war where former slaves were given rights
How a bill becomes a law
A. House of Representatives House Committee: a bill gets referred to a house committee. The smaller sub-committee reports back to the full committee with revisions House rules committee: powerful committee that decides how a bill will be considered; it will also decide how amendments to the bill will take place Floors of the House: bill is debated; the house votes; house can approve or kill the bill; approved bill goes to Senate B. Senate Senate Committee: sub-committee and standing committee research, analyze and construct the bill Floor of the senate: bill is debated; amendments may be added; senate votes and can approve or kill the bill C. Conference Committee Both House and Senate meet to work out the differences; the new bill they agree on must now be voted by the House and Senate; no more changes are allowed D. President A. President signs and the bill becomes law B. If the president vetoes the bill goes back to each house of congress and the senate and House of Representatives vote for it again by a 2/3 vote and it becomes law; if those doesn't happen in each house the bill is killed
Thirteenth amendment
Abolished slavery
Cabinet
Advises the President. Departments were created by Congress. Appointees must be approved by the Senate. Contain thousands of employees that make up a large bureaucracy.
Patriot act
After 9/11, the government wanted greater ability to detain and investigate suspected terrorists; expanded the powers of law enforcement with regards to surveillance and investigation; also permitted the detaining and reporting of suspected immigrant terrorists. Some say it violates civil liberties
Cabinet Secretaries
Agriculture, Commerce, Labor, Health, and Human services, House and Urban Development, Transportation, Energy, Education, Veteran Affairs, and Homeland Security
Tea Party Movement
Aims to lower taxes and reduce government spending
Supremacy clause
All federal laws and decisions are superior to those made by states
Don't ask don't tell
Allowed lesbian and gay soldiers to serve as long as their kept their sexuality a secret; ended in 2011
Seventeenth Amendment
Allowed the American people to start voting for Senators in 1913
The Welfare Reform Act of 1996 (The Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act)
Allows states and counties to run their own welfare program and determine how they want to bring people into the workforce. The act limited the duration of welfare benefits and encourages states to help people find jobs. States can use the grant how they see fit.
Mandate
An order from a higher authority to do something or you won't get your money. With federalism, it means the federal government is giving aid but there are strings attached s
New Federalism (Devolution)
An outcry to return power to the states. Supported by Ronald Reagan
Advice and Consent
Article II of the Constitution says the President should seek the advice of the Senate before nominating federal judges or making treaties. This helps the President avoid a controversial appointee and a potential embarrassing failure
Weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation
Articles gave more power to the state governments than the federal government aka decentralized power 1. Each state could coin its own money 2. No Executive Branch 3. No regulation of interstate commerce from one state to another 4. No national court system 5. No army 6. 9 out of 13 states had to agree to pass a law 7. all of the states had to agree to pass an amendment 8. Inefficient taxation system
Circular structure (Organization of the White House Staff)
Assistants deport directly to the president
Regents of the University of California v. Bakke
Bakke claimed that he was denied admission rocked school because he was white and the school had set quotas for minority students who could get lower grades. Ruled that a strict racial quota violated the Civil Rights Act
Bill of rights 1791
Became the first 10 amendments fo the constitution. It protected important freedoms such as speech, eight to bear arms, due process, prevention cruel and unusual punishment, and the right to an attorney. Does not speak on economic equality only equality of opportunity is encouraged
How can the constitution be changed
Can be altered through amendments. An amendment becomes a part of constitution and therefore comes part of the highest law of the land Proposal process: 2/3 vote of each house Congress calls for a national constitutional convention at the request of 2/3 of the states Ratification Process: 3/4 of the state legislatures have to ratify it Ratified by 3/4 of state conventions (supported by 21st amendment to bring back the sale of alcohol)
Absentee ballot
Can be filled out before the election if one can't make it to the polling place
Implied powers
Can be used by all three branches of government
Formal Constitution
Can only be this way by amending it.
Illegal aliens
Can't vote but must pay taxes
Class action suit
Cases that are brought to the court by an individual who is representing not only themselves but also others who have suffered similar experiences Ex: Brown v. board
Criminal (types of trials)
Cases that involve people who break the law. Typically there is no trial because a plea bargain is reached. The prosecutor and defense attorney have worked it out so that the defendant has pleaded guilty to fewer or less significant crimes
Slaughterhouse cases
Cases that put into question the protections of the fourteenth amendment; Louisiana created a corporation for the slaughtering of livestock. Corporation put all of the local slaughterhouses out of work: butchers lost their jobs and believe that Louisiana creation was a violation of their 14th amendment; butchers lost because the 14th amendment didnt protect privileges and immunities of citizenship in a state; states could create a slaughterhouse for the health and safety of the public
Civil (types of trials)
Cases that resolve arguments between individuals. Lawsuits can only occur if there is reasonable standing to sue. In Civil Trials, the one who brings forth the lawsuit is called the plaintiff. The one being litigated against is the defendant.
House Rules Committee
Closed Rule Open Rule Restricted Rule Germaneness Requirement
Executive Branch's power (President)
Commander-in-Chief of the military, signs and vetos laws, pardons people to forgive their federal crimes, makes treaties, appoints government officials, recommends laws to Congress, and delivers the State or the Union Address.
Iron Triangle
Committee (Congress) Interest Group Agency All three of these groups work together to make public policy. A. Interest groups lobby congress with campaign finance and other incentives. B. Congressional committees propose legislation for the programs that interest groups favor and they fund the agencies who regulate those programs C. Agencies or bureaucrats who regulate industry are also pressured by tehe special interests so they might regulate those interests
Who votes?
Compared to other nations many registered voters don't vote in the United States except in high profile or high cost presidential elections.
Sophomore surge
Comparing the difference between votes received in the first election, and the more impressive reelection
Free Exercise Clause (First Amendment)
Congress cannot interfere with the free exercise of religion
Gulf of Tonkin resolution
Congress gave President Lyndon Johnson a blank check to escalate forces.
Delegates or enumerated powers (Article I, Section 8)
Congress has this and examples include declaring war and cloning money.
Elastic Clause ("necessary and proper") (Article I, Section 8, Clause 18)
Congress' delegates power to do anything necessary or proper. Allows the Constitution o grow over time so it doesn't become a dated document. Provides a loose construction or interpretation of the constitution and gives the government more power to legislate.
Gridwold v. Connecticut
Connecticut law makes it illegal for married people to obtain contraceptives; declared unconstitutional; mentions 14th amendment
Libertarians
Conservative economically, but liberal on social issues want less government intervention in the lives of American citizens.
informal constitution
Constitution can be manipulated by using judicial review, the Elastic Clause, and creating political norms such as primaries and nominating conventions
Social Security
Created in FDR's New Deal in 1935, to hell older Americans cope with the Great Depression. The paychecks of younger people are taxed, and the money is then allocated to older people who had put money into the fund when they were younger.
The Great Compromise (Roger Sherman)
Created the House of Representative (Virginia Plan) and the Senate (The New Jersey Plan)
Reserved powers
Creates laws for: Education Marriage and divorce Driving Alcohol Drugs
Types of trails in the Judicial system
Criminal and civil
Secretary of State
Deals with foreign affairs
Judicial Branch's Power (Supreme Court)
Decides if legislation is in line with the Us condition. Can settle the disputes of state vs. state. The Supreme Court can strike down the federal government laws and high state court decisions.
Delegates or enumerated powers
Declare war Coin money Control interstate commerce Establish post offices Do anything necessary and proper (Elastic Clause)
The house uses what terms to describe the minority whip?
Democratic or Republican
Unwritten Constitution
Describe things that happen in United States government procedure that's not written directly in the Constitution. Ex: political parties, judicial review, and nominating conventions They are big parts of the government but are not written into the Constitution
Federalism
Division of power between the state and federal government.
Divided Government
Division usually leads to less getting done as partisanship sometimes trumped service. This can pose a challenge to Presidents hoping to get appointees approved. The House of Representatives and Senate can be controlled by different parties as well which leads to gridlock or difficulty of passing laws. One part of Congress can pass a law, while the other doesn't.
Fifth Amendment
Due process rights (Right to fair justice and freedoms from self-incrimination Cannot be tried twice for the same crime; freedom from double-jeopardy
How do candidates campaign during the primary vs. general election
During the primary, candidates of the same party usually have similar ideas Electorate also usually supports most of the platform During the election, the candidate has to appeal to the general public
Pyramid structure (Organization of the White House Staff)
Each assistant reports through their boss up to the Chief of Staff
Checks and Balances
Each branch looks over the shoulders of the two other branches to make sure that there are no abuse of power.
Populists
Economically liberal and socially conservative
Speaker of the House
Elected by the House of Representatives and they preside over the House. They have been voted in by the majority party and is therefore that party's leader
Linkage institutions
Elections, political parties, interest groups, and the media; being the citizen closer to the political process.
Winner takes it all
Electoral college votes per state; makes it hard for a third party to win an entire election.
Brown v. Board of Education
Ended segregation in schools in Warren Court and declared separate but equal was not email and violated the equal protection clauses of the 14th amendment
24th amendment
Ended the practice of poll taxes
Jim Crow Laws
Enforced in the South, separate bathrooms, schools, drinking fountains, restaurants
Executive Branch
Enforced or executes the laws to ensure people obey them. The president leads this branch in a country. In a state, the governor leads it. For a city, the mayor leads it. If the president cannot perform his duties the Vice President becomes acting President. If the president dies the Vice President becomes president. An extensive bureaucracy is there to support this branch .
Equal rights amendment
Ensured equal rights for women under the law and passed in the senate and House; supported by Betty Friedan (NOW); not enough states ratified it and was expired
Fourteenth Amendment
Equality of citizenship; due process clause for the states, and equal protection under the law
Dual Federalism
Ex-ACT agreement as to what the state controls and what the national government controls
Brady bill
Expanded background checks to obtain firearms; based on Ronald Reagan's assassination attempt
Radio
FDR And his fireside chats: calmed fears and informed the Great Depression
What shapes one's political attitude
Family impact: young adults tend to support the views of their parents Race and Ethnicity: African Americans, immigrants, and Hispanics Americans tend to be Democrats (minority vote block sways presidential elections) Religion: religions which were discriminates against are typically Democratic such as Jews and Catholics Religious right and Christian fundamentalists oppose liberal social values Gender: women tend to be democratic or liberal on issues such as gun control, abortion, and helping the poor Labor unions: if they fight for the rights of workers they are usually democratic. Part of the country you reside: South, North, West, Midwest Educational and Occupation: people with more education are more likely to vote Those with more liberal arts degrees usually vote liberal Wealthier Americans tend to be more conservative on economic matters
Agencies (bureaucrats) (Iron Triangle)
Favorable funding of agency information and support
Congress (Iron Triangle)
Favorable legislation Campaign support and provide information
Interest Group (Iron Triangle)
Favorable regulating policies and lobby
Liberal
Favors liberty, equality, and wants as much progressive chance as legally possible. Typically consists of Democrats Qualities: support a woman's right to choose to have an abortion, same-sex marriage, freedom of speech and press, the rights of accuses criminals, more government regulation of the economy, and universal health care
Legislative Oversight
Federal agencies and their policies are monitored by the Legislative Branch. If Congress believes bad decisions are being made, or mistakes have occurred they can step in and hold people accountable for missteps. Main purpose is to make sure government workers are doing what they are supposed to be doing
Wall of Sepration
First amendment is there to split Church and State
Federal budget
Fiscal year: October 1 to September 30 of the following year This causes people within the legislative and Executive branch to pass appropriation bills for spending 2/3 of the budget is filled with uncontrollable or mandatory spending 1. The President proposes the budget (work down by the Office of Management and Budget and the Council of Economic Advisors within the EOP (Executive Office of the President) to spend more on programs either more money has to be raised through taxes or cuts to other programs are necessary 2. If cuts need to be made, the respective agencies are asked where the cuts should come from 3. The Congressional Budget Office helps Congress analyze the budget 4. The House of Representatives and Senate budget Committees come with budget resolutions. Then a reconciled bill from both Houses is voted on. Finally, the appropriation spending bills are passed to reserve the money needed for all of the budget expenditures. 5. The President then signs the appropriation bills. The President must spend what is allocated since impoundment of funds are prevented by the Budget and Impoundment Control Act of 1974; unless Congress approves otherwise
The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC)
Formed to enforce laws prohibiting discrimination in the workplace
fourth amendment
Freedom from unreasonable searches and seizures
First Amendment
Freedoms of speech, press, religion, assembly, and right to petition the government
Block grants
General lump sums of money given to states for general purposes Ex: school spending and libraries Local Politicians have leeway on how to spend the money
Reynolds v. US
George Reynolds, a Mormon had two wives since his religion allowed polygamy, this was against state law; appealed it but the Court ruled that religion could not be used as a defense against polygamy as the feee exercise clause is not absolute
Gideon v. Wainwright
Gideon accuses of breaking into a billiards establishment in Florida. Was denied the right to an attorney because Florida would only appoint lawyers for capital (murder) offenses; found guilty; Court ruled that his rights were violated Was acquitted Violated 6th amendment (fair trial) which should have applied to Florida because of the due process clause
Philadelphia Convention
Goal was to amend the Articles of Confederation. Instead, the Constiution was created.
Affirmative action
Government policy which ensures that women and minorities have equal opportunity for jobs, school admissions, and other benefits; created to prevent discrimination in hiring practices; come under fire for reverse discrimination
Lemon test
Government's laws had to be secular in its legislative purpose, couldn't have the primary effect of advancing or inhibiting religion, and couldn't have an excess entanglement with religion
Freedom of Information Act (FOIA)
Have every citizen the right to access most federal agency records; expands democracy by exposing many government records previously left classified
Motor voter laws
Have made it easier to vote as states can allow people to register to vote, as states can allow people to register to vote when they receive or renew their driver's license
Earl Wareen's Court
Have more rights to the accused
inherent powers
Having the clout to do things seem necessary to faithfully secure laws, especially in times of emergency
Republican Conference Chair
Heads the organization for all House Republicans
Democratic Caucus Chir
Heads the organization of all House Democrats
solidary incentives
Honor, fun, and the fellowship that politics brings them
Which House is closer to the people?
House of Representatives because they represent small districts. This is the reason for their short term
Qualifications to hold a major office
House of Representatives: must be 25 years old, a US citizen for 7 years, and a resident of the state where they are serving. The term is 2 years. Senate: must be 30, US citizen for 9 years. And a resident of the state where they are serving. Term is 6 years. President/Vice President: must be 35 years old, a natural born citizen, and a US resident for 14 years. Each term in office is 4 years. Chosen by electors. Supreme Court Justices: no requirements. Appointed for life by the president and is confirmed by the Senate. Life appointment frees justices from political pressures.
House Representatives vs. Senate
House: 435 member initiates revenue/money bills chooses a President if no one wins the electoral vote begins impeachment proceedings. Senate: 100 members ratifies treaties approves presidential appointments holds a trial for the impeached official no limit on debate filibusters can protect the minority party known as the upper house
Political socialization
How ideology develops and is passed from one generation to another
Since the early 20th century what happened to the size of the bureaucracy?
IT expanded greatly Progressive Era: New agencies: Food and Drug Administration FDR: New Deal to cope with the Great Depression The size of the government increased as specialization of jobs became common
Pocket veto
If the President doesn't sign the bill within 10 days and Congress has adjourned (postpones meeting to another time) the bill dies. If the president doesn't act (does not sign or veto) in 10 days and Congress is in session the bill becomes law without a signature
Congressional Reapportionment
If the population of a House of Representative increases, there will be more representatives. If it goes down, there will be less representatives. The more representatives, the more influence it has in Congress. Populous states have more influences and electoral votes.
Presidential succession
If the president cannot perform his duties, resigns, or does it goes in this order 1. Vice President (25th amendment) 2. Speaker of the House 3. President Pro Tempore of the Senate 4. Secretary of State 5. Secretary of Treasury 6. Secretary of Defense After the secretary of defense, it goes down the list of cabinet If the President goes into surgery the Vice President becomes Acting President
amicus curiae
In addition to lawyers or both sides outsider can have a say in a case; briefs come from a person who believes they have information that is useful for the court evaluation of a case. Often used by special interest groups.
Importance of Vice President
In case the President dies or becomes incapacitated or removed from office or resigns; Vice President can balance the ticket by having more moderate views to attract voters in the middle of the political spectrum. Also choose a VP from a different part of the country:
How are taxes collected?
Internal Revenue Service (IRS) (in Treasury Department) enforces tax laws and collects taxes.
Judicial branch
Interprets the laws to make sure they are fake and just. It protects the constitution as the highest law of the land. No laws can overrule the constitution. The Supreme Court of the US is the highest court.
General Accounting Office (GAO) (Staff agencies)
Investigates how the federal government spends taxpayer money
Living Constitution
It can be interpreted generously and grow lever time with each new generation. Ex: Same-sex marriage; abortion, slavery
