C963 American Politics & Constitution WGU custom cards
What does "executive privilege" refer to?
"Executive privilege" is the ability of the president to withhold information from Congress.
Disadvantages of Federalism
*Complexity: there are many governments to deal with *Duplication of offices and functions *Conflicts of authority often arise *Inconsistency from state to state in regulations, education, etc. inequalities among systems will persist.
Issues with the Articles of Confederation
*limited the powers of the national government too much, ultimately making it too weak to function. *Without a chief executive to enforce the laws, power of the states tremendously outweighed the power of the national government. *Only states could implement laws and collect taxes. *Could declare war but no national army *Under the Articles of Confederation, the power of the states was protected, but the power of the national government was left both too ineffective and too inefficient to function. *A unicameral congress in which states, regardless of the number of delegates and size of their population, only received one vote *No executive or judicial branches *National government left with very limited power
The Principles of Federalism Lesson Summary
-Federalism as an effective system of government has generally worked in the United States for the most part, but any system of government has both positive and negative effects. -Federalism has permitted diverse groups to be represented, even if imperfectly, and provided for local preferences to be present in the creation of government programs. -Like any system, there are trade-offs between citizens receiving uniform treatment and local variations to take into account local circumstances. There are costs in terms of inefficiencies and the lack of uniform treatment of citizens where that might be desirable.
Civil Rights vs. Civil Liberties
-If you believe that the government is supposed to be doing something, then it is a right. -If you believe that the government is supposed to leave you alone, then it's a liberty. -Civil rights are used to prevent discrimination based on certain characteristics, liberties are guaranteed to everyone. For example, if you apply for government assistance, then your application will be reviewed according to an established procedure that is fair and applied equally to all other applications. Or, if you want to vote, the government must make sure you aren't impeded in doing so. These are rights. On the other hand, the government shouldn't interfere when you speak about government policy, whether for or against. Also, the government should stay away when it comes to the exercise, or non-exercise, of your religious faith (or your atheism). These are liberties. Rights are prescriptions of government power while liberties are proscriptions on government power.
district method
-Maine & Nebraska only states to do this - Eliminates electoral college - One electoral vote for each district won - Two "bonus" votes for winning a state's popular vote
Advantages of Federalism
-Share innovate ways to deal with problems, -States are better able to adapt to local conditions, -National govt can pass a basic program that will cover the country (disability payments), states can add to this program if they decide., -At the heart of federalism, power is divided making it more difficult for any groups to take over and violate rights, -Provides the opportunity for individuals to participate more in the political system.
What best describes the differences between the Virginia and New Jersey Plans in the role of federal and state sovereignty? Select the three correct answers.
-Supporters of the New Jersey Plan believed that the states were best suited to represent the needs of the citizens while supporters of the Virginia Plan believed that effective representation could happen at the national level. -Supporters of the New Jersey Plan advocated for states to retain power over the national government while supporters of the Virginia Plan wanted the national government to legislate for the states and even veto laws passed by state legislatures. -The Virginia Plan advocated for more powers for the central government.
Why was the inability of the national government to tax a weakness of the Articles of Confederation? Select the three correct answers.
-The currency of the United States became worthless. -Being unable to tax often left the national government underfunded. -Foreign countries did not want to lend or trade with the national government. *Really, the national government had to request money from the states, who often failed to send money to the government, leading to underfunding. In turn, foreign countries discredited U. S. currency and refused trade, and the value of U. S. currency dropped.
How did the inability to regulate trade among the states prove to be a weakness for the United States? Select the three correct answers.
-The national government had no power to regulate the price of goods. -Many local farmers and business owners could not survive in the economy under the Articles of Confederation. -The inability to regulate trade allowed the states to make their own agreements with other countries without the national government's knowing. Correct. Because the national government had no authority to regulate trade, countries would make agreements directly with the states without the national government's knowledge. Also, imported goods became cheaper than local and small business could not stay afloat.
Which statements are true regarding the process for nominating a presidential candidate in recent decades?
-The process for nominating a presidential candidate has brought about a longer nomination process. -The process for nominating a presidential candidate has shifted the power for nominating candidates to state party primary elections.
The structure of the Articles of Confederation
-Unicameral (one branch, legislative known as Confederation Congress) -1 vote per State -No judicial or executive branch -delegates could only serve 3 years -9 votes required before govnt could act -approval of all 13 states to change articles of conf.
Reserved powers of the states
-intrastate commerce -laws on marriage and divorce -taxes
The power to draft soldiers under the Articles of Confederation required the national government to do which of the following? Select the two correct answers.99 4
1) Appoint senior officials 2) Ask each state to send troops any time they wanted to engage in war
Ultimately, why did the Articles of Confederation fail? Select the three correct answers.
1) It harmed the international reputation of the United States. 2) It weakened the powers of the national government too much. 3) It weakened the economy of the United States. Actually, the Articles ultimately failed because, with only five specific powers, everything else was left to the states, leaving the government underfunded and without a strong national army. The United States was also viewed as weak by other powers.
Primary goals of the Articles of Confederation
1) Limit the powers of the national government, thus providing for greater state sovereignty.
Why did the Articles of Confederation fail? Select the two correct answers.
1) The Articles gave the states too much authority. 2) The Articles limited the powers of the national government too much, making it weak and ineffective. *Correct. In protecting state sovereignty, the states had more power than the national government, which served to weaken the national government and prevent it from making effective decisions that could be enforced.
After the Articles of Confederation went into effect, how was the British government able to continue impacting what would happen in the United States? Select the three correct answers.
1) The British government was able to put pressure on the states through its occupation of land west of the United States. 2) The British government was able to form individual relationships with the states. 3) The British government could refuse to accept the currency of the United States as a means to pay off any lingering debts. *In reality, the British government was able to form individual relationships with the states, pressure states by occupying in the land west of the United States, and deem its currency as valueless.
process of lawmaking
1) The bill is introduced and given to the appropriate standing committee. 2) The bill is sent to the Rules Committee. 3) The bill is debated in the House of Representatives and Senate with the possibility of a filibuster in the Senate. 4) The bill is voted upon by the House of Representatives and the Senate. 5) The bill is sent to the conference committee to form one unified bill. 6) The unified bill is sent back to the House of Representatives and Senate to be voted upon. 7) The bill goes to the president for signature or veto. If vetoed, Congress has the ability to override the veto.
Why does the Enlightenment influence American politics and government? Select the three correct answers.
1) Those immigrating to the American colonies are attracted to the Enlightenment's ideas of liberty and property. 2) Ideas of the Enlightenment frame the colonists' response to British violations of natural rights. 3) The colonists have a long history of self-government, consistent with the Enlightenment's ideas about government by consent. Correct. Those who settled the American colonies were seeking freedom and opportunity, and Locke's ideas about the consent to be governed and the right to rebellion had a major influence in the establishment of American government. Early Americans were not drawn to the idea of the divine right of kings.
Senate requirements
100 members (2 members from each state) .TERM OF OFFICE 6 YEARS Must be a US citizen for at least 9 years Must be at least 30 years old Must maintain broad appeal to win majority. Set up... The Vice President is the head of this body. President Pro Tempore Majority Leader Minority Leader Majority Whip Minority Whip
Civil War Amendments
13th, 14th, 15th They ended slavery, granted equal protection to all, and provided the right to vote for men of color. Then came the Jim Crow laws by states... Followed by Civil Rights Act of 1964 (outlawed segregation, and discrimination basis of race, religion, and sex. created EEOC) and the Voting Rights Act of 1965 (banned Literacy and understanding tests)
Equal Protection Clause
14th amendment clause "No State shall . . . deny to any person within its jurisdiction the equal protection of the laws." Thus, between the Fifth and Fourteenth Amendments, neither state governments nor the federal government may treat people unequally unless unequal treatment is necessary to maintain important governmental interests, like public safety.
Protection of Voting Rights Amendments
15, race, color or servitude 17, direct election of senators 19, gender (women) 23, dc citizens vote for Pres 24, poll tax 26 age (18 can vote)
How do conflicting ideas of the Enlightenment influence American government and politics? Select the two correct answers.
1_ The protection of private property can interfere with the government's dealing with important social needs. 2) The Constitution sets up a system of government that isn't favorable to the democratic expression of the popular will. Actually, the separation of powers in the Constitution works to undermine popular democratic input and control, but even when dealing with important social needs, protection of private property limits the government's actions.
Buckley v. Valeo (1976)
1st Amendment protects campaign spending; legislatures can limit contributions, but not how much one spends of his own money on campaigns. This court case equated spending money with free speech.
eminent domain
2nd, 3rd, & 7th and some of the 5th
House of Representatives requirements
435 members (proportional to state's population) TERM OF OFFICE 2 YEARS Must be a US citizen for at least 7 years Must be at least 25 years old Must regularly answer to constituents Set up: Speaker of the house Majority Leader Minority Leader Majority Whip Minority Whip
Explain the 3/5 compromise
5 slaves = 3 votes (counted for both taxation and representation). (60%)
Electoral College
538 Max votes. To win you must gain 270 votes. A group of people named by each state legislature to select the president and vice president
Citizens United v. Federal Election Commission
A 2010 landmark Supreme Court case that ruled that individuals, corporations, and unions could donate unlimited amounts of money to groups that make independent political expenditures.
Which system of government allows states to retain most of their power and authority while delegating few defined powers to the national government? Select the one correct answer.
A Confederation *Correct. Under a confederation, the national government derives its power solely through what the states allow it to do.
What must a candidate win when seeking a state's electoral votes?
A candidate must win a plurality of the state's popular vote. Correct. The winner of a plurality of popular votes, in 48 states, receives all of a state's electoral votes.
Civil Liberties (recognized liberties Article I section 9 and Article III section 3. 1st & 2nd amendment)
A civil liberty is a proscription for government behavior and it gives citizens control over their private lives. But a civil liberty is not the same as a civil right, nor does it provide total freedom from government interference. First Amendment reveals that it protects several basic liberties — freedom of religion, speech, press, petition, and assembly. At a minimum, the liberties we possess are "life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness." Civil liberties are, like civil rights, an expression of the social contract and are protected under the Constitution. We typically envision civil liberties as being limitations on government power, intended to protect freedoms that governments may not legally intrude on. A liberty is something that is important in defining your identity, allowing you the freedom to determine what your life will be like, and granting you the ability to express yourself. All of these you can do without interference from others. ***most fundamental liberties we have*** Habeas corpus—can only be suspended by Congress in times of rebellion or invasion, and if the public safety requires it (Article I, Section 9) No bills of attainder (Article I, Section 9) (placed on congress forbidding them from declaring someone guilty. Noex post facto laws (Article I, Section 9) (retroactive crime) Treason—two witnesses to the same overt act or confession in open court, no corruption of blood or forfeiture (except during life of the convicted) (Article III, Section 3)
Grandfather Clause
A clause in registration laws allowing people who do not meet registration requirements to vote if they or their ancestors had voted before 1867.
What is the purpose of a conference committee?
A conference committee is convened to resolve differences in bills from the House of Representatives and the Senate.
Which statement describes characteristics of a social contract? Select the three correct answers.
A definition of human nature A collective expression of a collectively shared interest A specification of natural rights Correct. Social contacts reflect who we are, the rights we possess, and the interests we share. Social contracts define us as human.
Resting at the heart of the debate over the Virginia and New Jersey plans was:
A disagreement over the national government being representative of the people or of the states. Correct. The key distinction between these plans was whether the people or the states would be represented in the national government.
trade association
A group formed to represent a set of businesses with a common interest
Under the rules of common law, how are decisions made in court?
A judge is responsible for interpreting and applying the law. A jury is responsible for determining matters of fact. In fact, according to common law, a judge interprets and applies the law, while a jury determines the facts. However, judges are not always required to accept a jury's decision, and appellate courts are not allowed to change a jury's determination of facts.
What is a key role of supreme courts in a federal system?
A key role of supreme courts is to resolve disputes between the national government and the state governments.
Federal Election Campaign Act
A law passed in 1974 for reforming campaign finances. The act created the Federal Election Commission (FEC), provided public financing for presidential primaries and general elections, limited presidential campaign spending, required disclosure, and attempted to limit contributions. The Federal Election Campaign Act requires candidates to disclose their donors and it also limits the amounts individuals can contribute to a campaign.
Judicial activism is commonly linked to:
A loose interpretation of the Constitution. Those in favor of judicial activism would probably support: The need to uphold constitutional values when the other two branches fail to.
Which election cycle event do delegates assemble at to select a presidential candidate?
A nominating convention
You've been arrested on the suspicion of murdering a highly respected member of your community. The Sixth Amendment allows for several things that protect your right to a fair trial. Of the choices below, what are those Sixth Amendment protections?
A notice of what criminal act you're alleged to have committed The cross-examination of witnesses who've said you committed the crime The exclusion of potential jurors who may be biased against you
Lobbyist
A person who is employed by and acts for an organized interest group or corporation to try to influence policy decisions and positions in the executive and legislative branches. A lobbyist can represent an individual, a company, a group of companies, unions, or a great variety of groups.
What is the purpose of a presidential signing statement?
A presidential signing statement indicates how the president plans to interpret a law.
Cloture
A procedure for terminating debate, especially filibusters, in the Senate.
Which type of interest group would lobby for increased accountability of congressional members?
A public interest group
Which situation would be an example of direct agenda setting by the media?
A report on a wave of identity theft cases that have been ignored by government agencies Correct. Such a news story deals with more than an isolated incident and suggests by its very nature that government agencies should be more involved in dealing with the issue of identity theft.
Executive order
A rule issued by the president that has the force of law. Issued without congress approval, but judicial can overturn it. Executive orders enable the president to balance Congress's lawmaking power.
Judicial restraint is commonly linked to:
A strict interpretation of the Constitution.
Checks and balances
A system that allows each branch of government to limit the powers of the other branches in order to prevent abuse of power
Filibuster
A tactic for delaying or obstructing legislation by making long speeches. A Senate rule that permits any individual senator to speak for as long as he or she likes.
Which of these statements are accurate with respect to the quartering of troops in private residences by the U.S. government?
Acceptable during times of war, provided it is allowed by law Allowed during peacetime, with the consent of the owner
Who argued for the creation of a very powerful presidency?
Alexander Hamilton Correct. Hamilton wanted a very strong president who would serve for life, once elected.
Radio Act of 1927
An act of Congress that created the Federal Radio Commission, intended to regulate the largely chaotic airwaves and based on the principle that companies had a civic duty to use airwaves, a limited public good, responsibly.
A judge that seeks to reverse the current trend of judicial activism could be considered to be:
An activist judge. Correct. Activism is often defined as a departure from the accepted status quo.
Federalist 10
An essay composed by James Madison which argues that liberty is safest in a large republic because many interests (factions) exist. Such diversity makes tyranny by the majority more difficult since ruling coalitions will always be unstable.
If you are accused of a crime, which of these rights are yours under the Constitution? Select the three correct answers.
An indictment by grand jury A public trial Compelling witnesses to testify on your behalf
Which is an example of an interest group that follows an electoral strategy for making campaign contributions?
An interest group that follows an electoral strategy gives to the candidate who they really want to win rather than the candidate that most people would predict to be the winner.
interest group
An organization of people sharing a common interest or goal that seeks to influence the making of public policy Often, this influence is exercised by a lobbyist or a lobbying firm.
Why did Andrew Jackson veto Congressional legislation?
Andrew Jackson disagreed with the content of the legislation. Correct. He used the veto, like modern presidents, because of policy disagreements.
Which of these presidents were subjected to impeachment?
Andrew Johnson and Bill Clinton
Which president was impeached by the House of Representatives?
Andrew Johnson for firing his secretary of war
A law alleged to violate the Constitution's protection of free speech would be heard by the Supreme Court under:
Appellate jurisdiction. Correct. This type of case would first be heard by a lower court before being heard by the Supreme Court.
Intermediate Scrutiny
Applies to gender or sex as the basis for discrimination. "Burden of Proof on Government!
How many electoral votes is the District of Columbia (Washington, D.C.) entitled to?
As established by the Twenty-Third Amendment: D.C. is allowed no more electoral votes than the least populous state.
Help America Vote Act of 2002 (HAVA)
As part of the act, states were required to update voting equipment, make voting more accessible to the disabled, and maintain computerized voter rolls that could be updated regularly.
Why was the Monroe Doctrine important?
Because it established the fact that European nations could not interfere in the Western Hemisphere.
Which is true regarding the rights that states have under federalism?
Before the Fourteenth Amendment was passed, states could ignore the Bill of Rights. Correct. The Bill of Rights only applied to the national government until the Fourteenth Amendment was ratified by the states.
Why are the cases McCulloch v. Maryland and Gibbons v. Ogden important to the development of the American Federalist system?
Both of these cases helped increase the power of the federal government and explained its specific expressed powers.
In what ways does Article I of the Constitution prevent the national government from engaging in taxation without representation? Select the two correct answers.
Both the House and Senate must approve of all revenue bills. All bills to raise revenue must begin in the House of Representatives. Correct. Article I prevents the government from "taxation without representation" by requiring that all revenue bills begin in the House of Representatives, where the members are popularly elected by the people, and that both the House and the Senate must approve the bills.
What is an important role for a newly elected president's transition team?
Briefing the new president on executive agreements Correct. The new president needs to indicate to foreign leaders which of these agreements he will continue to honor.
checks on the executive branch - By Congress
By Congress -Can override a presidential veto by a two-thirds vote in both chambers -Must approve treaties by a two-thirds vote in the Senate -Control of funding activities of the executive branch -Presidential nominees must be approved by the Senate -Only Congress can declare war -House can impeach the president or vice president and the Senate can remove them by a two-thirds vote
Checks on Judiciary - By Congress
By Congress Senate must approve judges and justices Controls jurisdiction of the courts Determines size of Supreme Court House can impeach judges and Senate can remove them by two-thirds vote
checks on the executive branch - By Judiciary
By Judiciary -Can overturn actions of the president with judicial review if the actions violate the Constitution -Serve during good behavior to maintain independence of judiciary
Checks on Congress - By Judiciary
By Judiciary -Can overturn acts of Congress as unconstitutional if they violate the law -Can influence laws by interpretation -Serve during good behavior to maintain independence of judiciary
Checks on Congress - By President
By President Can veto legislation Can use executive agreements Can use executive orders Negotiates treaties (not Congress)
Checks on Judiciary - By President
By President Nominates judges Power of pardon
Super PACs (independent expenditure-only committees)
Can't directly donate to campaigns but can fund advertising focused on a federal candidate - can't be connected to a candidate, campaign, or specific party. These are PACs through which corporations and unions can spend virtually unlimited amounts of money on behalf of political candidates.
Why is voter turnout in caucuses generally lower than voter turnout in primaries according to opponents of caucuses?
Caucuses take more time for the voter than primaries.
Which constitutional mechanism discussed in Federalist, no. 51 discusses the powers that each branches of government has in order to impact how the other branches of government operate? Select the one correct answer.
Checks and Balances. Correct. Checks and balances allow each branch of government to monitor and influence the other branches, making sure that no one branch of government becomes too powerful.
Which Constitutional mechanism, suggested by Montesquieu, balances the national government and prevents any one section of government from having sole/complete power? Select the one correct answer.
Checks and balances. Correct. The Constitutional principle of checks and balances is meant to prevent any one branch of government from gaining complete power and control over the government by allowing each branch to monitor and influence what happens in other branches of government.
laws that emerged during the Civil Rights Era
Civil Rights Act of 1957—This law prohibits the intimidation, coercion, or interference with the rights of persons voting for president or members of Congress on the basis of race, color, religion or national origin. Civil Rights Act of 1964—This law outlaws discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. It also prohibits unequal application of voter registration requirements, segregation in schools, employment, and public accommodations. Voting Rights Act of 1965—This law prohibits racial discrimination in voting. Fair Housing Act (Title VIII of the Civil Rights Act of 1968)—This law requires equal housing opportunities regardless of race, religion, or national origin.
Liberty According to the First Amendment Summary
Civil liberties are important for American citizens. The most important civil liberties are contained in the First Amendment in the Bill of Rights, providing for freedom of speech, press, and the right to peaceful assembly to seek a redress of grievances. The rights collectively have come to be referred to as freedom of expression, particularly the right to express political views in disagreement with the government or officials. The First Amendment also guarantees freedom of religion but, at the same time, prohibits the government from undertaking activities that would establish a particular religion, or even religion in general. The nature of these rights has been developed over the course of the United States' history by a variety of Supreme Court decisions that have provided definitions, elaborations, and extensions.
What do civil rights represent? Select the three correct answers.
Civil rights are expressions of the social contract. Civil rights are expectations for how government will treat us. Civil rights are requirements for government action. Correct. Civil rights are part of the social contract, expressions of how the government must treat people, and requirements for government action.
How do civil rights differ from civil liberties?
Civil rights are requirements for government action, while civil liberties are restrictions on government power.
civil rights (13, 14, 15, 19, 24, 26)
Civil rights are, by definition, a part of the social contract. Civil rights are a requirement for government to act in a particular way. Examples of civil rights include the right to vote, the right to a fair trial, the right to a public education, and the right to use public facilities. 13th abolished slavery 14th African american citizenship 15th no voter denied to race 19th no voter denied to sex (women) 24th no voter denied to poll tax 26th no voter denied over 18 yr old
Establishment Clause
Clause in the First Amendment that says the government may not establish an official religion.
Expressed power of national government (article i, section 8)
Coin money Regulate Interstate & foreign trade Raise & maintain armed forces Declare war Govern U.S. territories Conduct foreign relations examples: establishing bilateral trade agreements with foreign countries. Congress is specifically allowed to levy tariffs and duties. Congress's making the importation of elephant ivory illegal.
Bundling
Collecting a large number of checks to raise a large amount of money, but each of the checks is from a separate individual and is for an amount below the legal contribution limit.
Compromises at the Constitutional Convention
Compromises took place between large states and small states over representation Northern states and Southern states over slavery And those who wanted a strong central government and those who wanted to leave room for state sovereignty. Senate would have equal number of reps (elected by state legislatures). House would have proportional number of reps (elected by voters). In the end, the United States left the Constitutional Convention strengthened.
Marbury v Madison accomplished a number of things in its ruling
Confirmed the independence of the judiciary as a third co-equal branch of government. Established judicial review. Argued that only the Constitution could give the Supreme Court original jurisdiction, not Congress.
When did Congress issue an official declaration of war?
Congress issued an official declaration of war after Pearl Harbor. It was a declaration of war for U.S. entry into World War II.
Enumerated power example
Congress's being limited to suspending habeas corpus only in a time of insurrection. Congress's defining what is a gallon of gasoline.
What conditions are required for a social contract to work? Select the two correct answers.
Consensus among those whom the social contract applies to. Uniformity of ability and purpose among those who agree to the social contract. In fact, the conditions needed for a social contract to work include consensus among those involved in the social contract and a uniformity among those who agree to it.
Full Faith and Credit Clause
Constitutional clause requires states to honor the public acts, records, and judicial decisions of other states. This clause is the reason why public records and acts such as diplomas, driver's licenses, and marriages are recognized in all 50 states.3
Separation of powers
Constitutional division of powers among the legislative, executive, and judicial branches, with the legislative branch making law, the executive applying and enforcing the law, and the judiciary interpreting the law
Who benefited the most from the decision in the Citizens United case?
Corporations The decision limited the direct campaign contributions, so benefits for candidates were indirect. Corporations had much greater freedom to participate in politics after the Citizens United case.
Political Action Committees (PACs)
Corporations, unions, and interest groups must form Political Action Committees (PACs) in order to make contributions to campaigns. Groups that offer financial or other campaign support to the candidates. PACs are limited in the amount of money that they can contribute to individual candidates or to national party organizations; for example, they can contribute no more than $5,000 per candidate, per election, and no more than $15,000 a year to a national political party. Individual contributions to PACs are also limited to $5,000 a year. These limits were indexed to inflation in 2002, so they have gone up somewhat each election since then.
What are specific powers given to Congress in Article I of the Constitution? Select the three correct answers.
Correct. Congress was given the power to collect taxes, regulate trade and commerce, and declare war.
Crawford v. Marion County Election Board (2008)
Court upheld and Indiana law requiring registered voters to show a government-issued photo-ID since the law was "neutral and nondiscriminatory" and closely related to the interests of preventing voter fraud.
Running for Congress
Declare candidacy "out-party" competition win plurality in primary (one more vote than 2nd place) campaign, raise money make sure supporters vote dissuade opposed to not vote get undecided to vote for you
What was an outcome of the rise of primary systems during the Progressive Era?
Decreased the control of political parties over the candidate nomination process. Primary elections are intended to loosen control of candidate nominations from party officials at any level.
inside lobbying
Direct communication between organized interests and policymakers, which is based on the assumed value of close ("inside") contacts with policymakers.
Federalist paper #10 - Jason Madison author
Discusses how: Groups of citizens are formed. The constitution allows for freedom of expression, yet controls damage self-interest groups can do if in the positions of political power. Cautioned that too much democracy, in a system where the majority rules, can lead to tyranny.
In Federalist No. 51, James Madison
Eased the fear of the national government abusing its power with promotion of both separation of powers and checks and balances.
Federalist No. 10
Eased the fear of the power of factions and encouraged the citizens to promote liberty of opinions and ideas.
What types of disability discrimination are prohibited by Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973? Select the two correct answers.
Employment Education Correct. Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 prohibits discrimination in education and employment, but not housing or healthcare.
What are some of the strategies you should consider when campaigning for office?
Engage in negative campaigning. Focus on independent voters
The number of presidential Electors for each state is:
Equal to the sum of the state's Representatives and Senators as established by the Constitution!
What is an example of a state exercising its reserve power?
Establishing laws to regulate businesses in the state
Reapportionment, Redistricting, and Gerrymandering Lesson Summary
Every state must go through the process of reapportionment and redistricting every 10 years to accommodate for changes in their state's population based on the last census. State legislatures are responsible for drawing electoral districts, which makes districts more susceptible to gerrymandering. Gerrymandering is the re-drawing of electoral districts to give an advantage or disadvantage to either a particular political party or group. In general, gerrymandering is not illegal but has been ruled unconstitutional by the Supreme Court when race is the basis for gerrymandering. While the courts have considered many cases concerning racial gerrymandering, they are just beginning to consider cases concerning partisan gerrymandering.
Which is true concerning executive agreements with foreign countries? Select the one correct answer.
Executive agreements are valid only as long as the political leaders from both countries are in power. Executive agreements do not require Senate approval.
Gibbons v. Ogden
Expressed power Commerce clause case (1824). Decision greatly enlarged Congress' interstate commerce clause power by broadly defining the meaning of "commerce" to include virtually all types of economic activity. Pair with Lopez & Morrison cases (limiting commerce power).
What established the requirement that candidates disclose the source of campaign contributions?
Federal Election Campaign Act
Congressional Campaign Funding
Federal Election Campaign Act (created FEC/discloses donors) Bipartisan Campaign Reform Act (BCRA) (limits "soft$) Citizens United vs. the FEC (removed corporate limits based on free speech rights)
Which of these is a true statement concerning federal income tax?
Federal income tax required the ratification of a constitutional amendment, after the Supreme Court ruled that a previous attempt to tax income was unconstitutional. Correct. Since previous congressional attempts to tax income were not "apportioned," the Supreme Court ruled they were unconstitutional. The Sixteenth Amendment to the Constitution permitted Congress to tax income without regard to apportionment.
Which statement is true regarding the federal system of government?
Federalist systems work best In countries that are large and diverse. Federalism allows state governments to adapt to local conditions and meet the needs of citizens.
Free Exercise Clause 1st Amendment
First Amendment requirement that law cannot prevent free exercise of religion The First Amendment says that the government can not suppress religious beliefs or practices. Correct. Government can only interfere with religious practices in rare circumstances.
The census serves several purposes:
First, its population determines each state's number of seats in the House of Representatives. Second, a state's number of votes in the Electoral College (the means for choosing a president) is equal to a state's number of representatives, plus its two senators. Third, the Constitution requires that taxes be "apportioned"—that is, proportional to the states' populations—so that one state is not called on to bear a heavier burden than another. As we have seen previously, the Constitution's Sixteenth Amendment authorized an income tax without regard to apportionment.
According to the Supreme Court, when is it legal to take private property for public use?
For the creation of jobs For the enhancement of government revenues (for example, taxes). For the creation of public parks For the building of roads
In which Amendment does the requirement for states to respect the "privileges or immunities" of your U.S. citizenship appear?
Fourteenth Amendment This amendment requires states to respect the "privileges or immunities" of your U.S. citizenship.
In political media, what is framing?
Framing is the process of giving context or background in the way a news story is portrayed. Example: Discussing a politically embarrassing story and providing details on previous experiences of the candidate that are similar
Which constitutional clauses seek to limit the power of the states?
Full Faith and Credit Clause Privileges and Immunities Clause Supremacy Clause
Select the two correct answers. Discrimination is:
Generally allowed by the courts so long as it is rational. The differential treatment of groups based on characteristics they possess.
Which of the presidents below relied most on his vice president for advice?
George W. Bush and Dick Cheney
What is one goal for the use of gerrymanders?
Gerrymanders dilute the power of the minority party by concentrating supporters in one or a few districts.
Freedom of Information Act
Gives all citizens the right to inspect all records of federal agencies except those containing military, intelligence, or trade secrets; increases accountability of bureaucracy This act made it possible for journalists to request information from the government with some limits.
Media as a Political Watchdog Lesson Summary
Good government requires a free media that watches the performance of the government. Even with our general guarantee of a free press, there are regulations on the media. These regulations include equal time requirements (to promote fairness for all candidates) and indecency rules. Candidates and elected officials work hard to get their message out, knowing it will be filtered by the media. Presidents particularly work hard to coordinate their messaging to the media and the public.
When is government involvement in religious practices allowed, according to the Lemon test (established in Lemon v. Kurtzman)?
Government involvement in religious practices is allowed when that involvement neither advances or inhibits religious practice.
Powers of government under Articles of Confederation
Government under the Articles of Confederation therefore had few powers. 1) The power to make treaties and alliances with other nations (appoint foreign ambassadors but no national military). 2) The power to Declare war 3) The power to Borrow and Coin Money (currency was called continental currency). 4) The Power to Regulate Trade with the Native Americans 5) Settle disputes between states (US consisted of what is the east coast of the United States today). **Everything else was left for each individual state to decide in order to create and preserve state sovereignty and to prevent the United States from mirroring the tyranny experienced under the British government.
The general characteristics of a civil rights movement include:
Grassroots movements which organize to protest the presence of discrimination. The use of court cases to advance the group's cause for equal treatment. Recognition by the affected group that they are being discriminated against. Correct. A civil rights movement is characterized by a recognition that discrimination exists, engagement with the courts, and the presence of grassroots movements.
civil rights
Guarantees by the government that it will treat people equally. The idea of equal treatment is anchored in the classical liberal philosophy used by the founders when justifying revolution, and later when constructing state and national constitutions. proclaimed in the Fifth and Fourteenth Amendments to the Constitution
What's the difference between hard money and soft money?
Hard money directly relates to the candidate or campaign, whereas soft money is spent by PACs.
What are social contracts constructed to be compatible with? Select the one correct answer.
Human Nature and Natural Rights. Correct. The social contract recognizes both human nature and natural rights and when constructed, natural rights are a central part because they are too important to our individual lives.
The key argument in support of the 26th Amendment was
If an 18-year old could be conscripted to fight, they should be allowed to vote.
Shelby County v. Holder (2013)
In 2013, the Supreme Court struck down a key provision of the Voting Rights Act of 1965, that required that certain states with a history of voter discrimination obtain federal approval of any changes in voting laws. (p. 691)
Which statement about federal and unitary systems is most accurate?
In a federal system, powers are divided between states and national governments. In a unitary system, all power is held within the national government. Correct. Powers are divided in a federal system with both levels between assigned particular powers.
What is it called when people make an agreement between themselves and the government?
In general, a contract is an agreement between two parties. The terms of the agreement between a government and its people are an ongoing negotiation.
The Civil Rights Act of 1964 prohibits discrimination:
In public accommodations. Based on sex. In education. Based on religion. Correct. ALL of these answers are correct because the Civil Rights Act of 1964 prohibits all of these types of discrimination.
Which of the following arguments would be more likely to be advanced by an Anti-Federalist? Select the one correct answer.
In small republics, similarities among members of the community lead them to similar issue positions, making it easier for elected officials to represent the views of their constituents. Correct. This argument for smaller republics (e.g. stronger powers to the states instead of the federal government) is a great example of an Anti-Federalist argument.
The Supremacy Clause example
In the 1920 case of Missouri v. Holland, the Supreme Court ruled a state's right to regulating hunting within its own borders did not supersede the federal government's obligations under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918. This is an example of the exercise of:
Where are most bills prevented from becoming laws?
In the committees of the House and Senate
Which policy would be most likely to be supported by a public interest group?
Increased spending on infrastructure projects.
What improves the ability of a president to use his power of persuasion?
Inheriting a good economy
interest group ratings and candidate score cards
Interest group ratings and candidate score cards are intended to inform group members and the public about a candidate's positions on issues the group cares about. Correct. Interest groups produce these guides to help their members (and the general public) understand a candidate's positions.
What is a common relationship involving interest groups, congressional committees, or federal agencies?
Interest groups provide campaign funds for committee members.
Which statements are true concerning the state of nature? Select the two correct answers.
Is a thought experiment upon which a definition of proper society and government are built. Permits a philosophical definition of human nature. Correct. Enlightenment philosophers used the state of nature to define human nature and argued for a proper society and government based on that nature.
Emancipation Proclamation
Issued by abraham lincoln on september 22, 1862 it declared that all slaves in the confederate states would be free
Why was the inability to regulate trade among the states a weakness of the national government under the Articles of Confederation? Select the one correct answer.
It allowed the states to make their own agreements with countries without the national government knowing. *Correct. Because the national government had no authority to regulate trade, countries would make agreements directly with the states without informing the national government.
Which of these does the right to a civil trial, provided by the Seventh Amendment, accomplish for Americans?
It allows for a neutral venue for the settlement of personal disputes.
What was the significance of the Supreme Court's ruling in McCulloch v. Maryland?
It established a loose constructionist view of the necessary and proper clause.
Why is it important to know what the quality of life is like in the state of nature? Select the two correct answers.
It explains the incentive for working cooperatively with others. It helps to frame the type of social contract that is needed to make individual life better. Correct. How bad or good life is in the state of nature will guide the need to cooperate with others, and the subsequent social contract will help overcome the drawbacks experienced in the state of nature.
What is a federal system?
It is a division of power between national government and state governments with both levels have specific powers.
What is true about the U.S. court system?
It is a dual system with a federal court system and courts in each state.
Who decides how the government budgets and spends money? Select the one correct answer.
It is approved by both Congress and the president Correct. Congress passes budgetary bills and the president signs them.
How did the Fourteenth Amendment change the interpretation of the Constitution?
It led to greater involvement by federal courts in areas previously reserved to the states.
What describes the general structure of the U.S. government under the Articles of Confederation?
It was an alliance of independent states under a limited central government.
Bipartisan Campaign Reform Act (BCRA)
Largely banned party soft money, which is raised for purposes like party-building efforts, get-out-the-vote efforts, and issue advocacy ads.
Jim Crow Laws
Laws designed to enforce segregation of blacks from whites. The purpose of many Jim Crow laws was that of disenfranchisement or the denial of voting rights.
Strategies of Interest Groups
Legislative: donate money to a candidate to gain an "in" with them, either now or in the future. Electoral: Work to elect candidates who already "fit" with their beliefs or support their interests.
stare decisis
Let the decision stand; decisions are based on precedents from previous cases
concurrent powers
Levy & collect taxes Borrower money Establish courts Define crimes & set punishments Claim private property for public use examples: taxing income of workers. a state's defining the act of manslaughter and what the punishment for it is. a state's imposing a tax on gasoline.
Which of the following did John Locke view as the most important protection(s) under the social contract?
Liberty & Property. John Locke believed that liberty and property are both natural rights and it is the government's job to protect them.
How does a civil liberty differ from a civil right? Select the three correct answers.
Liberty means being left alone, while a right requires some type of action. A liberty is a proscription, while a right is a prescription. Liberties are associated with the private sphere, while rights are associated with the public sphere. Correct. A civil liberty is a proscription, it means being left alone, and it is in the private sphere.
Which natural right was explicitly protected in the Declaration of Independence? Select the one correct answer.
Liberty. Thomas Jefferson wrote the Declaration of Independence based on the ideas of John Locke who argued that one of our most important natural rights is liberty.
According to John Locke, how much authority should society have over its citizens under the social contract?
Limited authority. Correct. Locke believed that the social contract should provide a society in which the society has no more power than is necessary to regulate the natural rights and co-existence of its citizens.
Supreme Court's original jurisdiction
Limited to those rare cases of disputes between states, or between the United States & foreign ambassadors or ministers.
States showing the greatest improvement in voter turnout have adopted which of these?
Mail-only voting systems
Which two states provide for the possibility of splitting their electoral votes by Congressional district?
Maine and Nebraska
For what reason were majority-minority districts created?
Majority-minority districts were created to avoid gerrymanders that diluted the voting power of minorities.
Forms of interest groups
Membership organizations Legislative liaisons Volunteer lobbyists Associations
soft money
Money raised in unlimited amounts by political parties for party-building purposes, get-out-the-vote efforts, and issue advocacy ads. Soft money can be used for party-building and to advocate for issues, but not for campaign events or opposition research.
The Constitution's first three articles create separate legislative, executive and judicial branches, is consistent with:
Montesquieu's theory for the separation of political power. Correct. Yes, the first three articles divide government power, consistent with Montesquieu's theory
The Constitution's demotion of liberty, and lack of protections for natural rights, suggests the framers were what?
More interested in the practicalities of government.
Rational Scrutiny
Most types of discrimination! "Burden of Proof on Plaintiff state must only show a rational basis in the law, or show that the law is rational & makes sense For example, allowing blind people to drive cars is a danger to other drivers (not to mention pedestrians). Therefore, a law forbidding the blind to drive is reasonably justified on the grounds of public safety. Thus, the law is allowed even though it discriminates against the blind. Example: Requiring students to meet a minimum score on a test for admission to a university
President requirements
Must be a natural born a US citizen Must be at least 35 years old Must have been living in the US for at least 14 years Electoral votes are what elect a president.
The Fair Housing Act prohibits discrimination based on:
National origin. Race. Religion. The Fair Housing Act protects against discrimination of all these types except for that based on sex.
Which clauses did the Supreme Court use In McCulloch v. Maryland, to expand the power of the federal government?
Necessary and Proper Clause Supremacy Clause Interpreted as: it recognized that Congress could create a national bank even though it did not have an enumerated power to do so.
What is a key role of the appropriations committees in the House of Representatives and the Senate?
One key role of the appropriations committees in the House of Representatives and the Senate is to provide funding for specific projects, agencies, or programs in proposed legislation
Seventh Amendment
One of the few parts of the Bill of Rights not yet incorporated by the states. What this means is that the Seventh Amendment applies only to the federal courts, and not to the state courts. State courts, therefore, operate differently. Your right to a civil trial is guaranteed, if the dispute exceeds $20. The facts decided by a jury in a civil trial are not to be questioned, except under the rules of common law.
What is an established church under the First Amendment?
One that is supported by tax funds Correct. Established churches were supported by taxes, thus forcing all citizens to pay for churches even ones that they disagreed with
Which power is assigned to the House under the Constitution?
Originating congressional spending bills
Which of these statements is correct about Congress's oversight authority?
Oversight is not a specifically enumerated power, but rather is implied in Article I. There is no specific "power of oversight" written into the Constitution, but it is implied in many constitutional provisions, including Congress's power of the purse, advice and consent, and the power of impeachment.
Privileges and Immunities Clause
Part of Article IV of the Constitution guaranteeing that the citizens of each state are afforded the same rights as citizens of all other states.
freedom of expression
Part of the First Amendment protecting freedom of speech, press, assembly, and the right to petition the government. These rights collectively refer to the ability to present political views, including those opposed to the government.
How did the passage of Title IX of the Education Amendments impact education in the United States?
Per Title IX, any school that receives federal funds must spend equal amounts of money on academic programs and activities for both girls and boys.
Which are true regarding presidential electors?
Pledged to support the candidate or political party that nominated them. Nominated by the candidates or political parties. Correct. Presidential electors are nominated by the candidates or political parties and pledged to support the candidate or political party that nominated them.
Political socialization.
Political socialization.The cues you receive from your family and friends about the relevance and meaning of political events are part of: Political socialization tells us we are influenced by the political views of our parents.
implied powers (inferred as necessary)
Powers inferred from the express powers that allow Congress to carry out its functions. Example: regulate banks, establish a minimum wage, and allow for the construction and maintenance of interstate highways. Today, the overwhelming portion of Congress's work is tied to the Necessary and Proper Clause.
enumerated powers
Powers specifically given to Congress in the Constitution; including the power to collect taxes, coin money, regulate foreign and interstate commerce, and declare war taxes
Electoral College Summary
Presidents are, technically, selected by presidential Electors, not by the popular vote. Presidential Electors are determined by the outcome of a state's popular vote—the winner gets his or her nominees for Electors appointed by that state. A majority of the electoral votes are needed to win. If there is no majority, then the House chooses a president, voting by state, and the Senate chooses a vice president, voting by senator. The Electoral College compels candidates for the presidency to focus their campaign efforts on swing states, which undermines the national character of this election process.
The Executive Branch Summary
Presidents have less power in domestic affairs, but their power in this area of policy making is still significant. Presidents often have the initiative in suggesting legislation, crafting bills, and preparing the budget. There is also a certain amount of flexibility that comes with carrying out laws and policies. Executive orders have been become one recently controversial means by which presidents have affected policies.
Which of these statements is true about individuals nominated to the Supreme Court?
Presidents nominate individuals that they think share their view of the political system. And most of all, individuals who are nominated are normally lawyers.
Bill of rights - Categories of Rights and Protections
Procedural 4th, 10th, 5th, 6th, 1st, 7th, 8th Criminal 5th, 6th Individual Freedoms 5th, 6th, 1st, 7th, 8th, 2nd, 3rd, 9th
Gerrymandering
Process of redrawing legislative boundaries for the purpose of benefiting the party in power. Correct. State legislatures frequently draw the boundaries to give the majority party an unfair advantage.
Which action is an example of direct persuasion by the media?
Providing an endorsement for one candidate in an upcoming election
de facto segregation
Racial segregation that occurs in schools, not as a result of the law, but as a result of patterns of residential settlement Examples: -Refusing service to African Americans at department store lunch counters -Racial profiling
Which of these correctly describes the process of redistricting?
Redistricting is a complex process that is subject to constitutional restraints. Correct. The Supreme Court has said that redistricting lines cannot be drawn based solely on race, and must be drawn to reflect the principle of "one person, one vote."
Reserved powers for the state
Regulate trade & business within state Establish public schools Pass license requirements for professionals Regulate alcoholic beverages Conduct elections Establish local governments example a state's requiring school attendance until 18 years of age. determining the qualifications needed to teach elementary school. a city's prohibiting the sale of tobacco products within 100 yards of a school. a state's restricting the right of a convicted felon from voting for president.
Communications Act of 1934
Replaced the Radio Act and created a more powerful entity to monitor the airwaves—a seven-member Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to oversee both radio and telephone communication.
How was slavery involved in the Constitutional Convention? Select the one correct answer.
Representatives from the North were adamant that slaves not be counted towards a state's population while Southerners insisted that they be counted. While many in the North had advocated for the end of slavery, and Pennsylvania passed the Act for the Gradual Abolition of Slavery in 1780, the South was still dependent upon slavery for the survival of their economy. Representatives from the North were adamant that slaves not be counted towards a state's population while Southerners insisted that they be counted.
How did creating a republican form of government in the United States ease the fears of the national government becoming too powerful? Select one correct answer.
Republican government rested political power in the hands of the people. *Correct. a republican form of government gave the power to the people while still allowing the states to have their own elected officials to enforce laws and policies within each state.
Fairness Doctrine (1949)
Required licensed stations to cover controversial issues in a balanced manner by providing listeners with information about all perspectives on any controversial issue. The fairness doctrine ended in the 1980s, after a succession of court cases led to its repeal by the FCC in 1987.
Which of these is an example of Congress exercising its power under the Commerce Clause?
Requiring that bus lines serve all customers equally Bus lines serve interstate commerce, which can be regulated by Congress.
Richard Nixon Impeachment
Richard Nixon resigned when it was likely that the House of Representatives would vote in favor of the articles of impeachment (and a Senate vote to remove him from office was likely)
When did the United States establish national intelligence agencies?
Right after World War II Correct. During World War II, the United States improvised its intelligence activities. It established the CIA and the NSA shortly after the end of the war.
What is an effect of gerrymandering districts?
Safe seats are created due to unnatural boundaries.3
scrutiny
Scrutiny is just what you think it is—the type of attention the Court will give to a question or issue, or the position in which the Court starts out when considering a question of discrimination.
Bill of Rights, rights of the accused
Second, there are rights that regulate how the government is to interact with us. Mainly these deal with times when people have been accused of committing a crime. They are there to ensure that due process of the law plays out fairly. These rights include the following: No quartering of soldiers without consent, or in a time of war unless authorized by law (Third Amendment) No searches or seizures without a warrant based on probable cause (Fourth Amendment) There are rights that regulate how the government can treat you when you've been accused of committing a crime and ensure that due process of the law plays out fairly. A few of these include a right to: no searches without a warrant and must be based on probable cause, legal representation, a fair trial, and a guarantee of no cruel and unusual punishment. (Rights of the Accused, by 2018 WGU, from adapted images, licensed under CC0; Search, licensed under CC0-Share Alike 2.0, West Midlands Police, 2012; Thai Warrant of arrest, licensed under CC01.0 Universal public domain, 2011; Cellular Jail Balcony, licensed under under CC0-Share Alike 3.0, Aliven Sarkar, 2011) Indictment by grand jury (Fifth Amendment) No double jeopardy (Fifth Amendment) No self-incrimination (Fifth Amendment) Due process of law necessary for deprivation of life, liberty, or property (Fifth Amendment) Just compensation for taking of private property for public use (Fifth Amendment) Speedy and public trial (Sixth Amendment) Trial by jury in the state or district where the crime was committed (Sixth Amendment) Informed of the accusation (Sixth Amendment) Can confront witnesses against (Sixth Amendment) Can compel witnesses for (Sixth Amendment) Right to a lawyer (Sixth Amendment) Excessive bail, fines prohibited (Eighth Amendment) No cruel and unusual punishment (Eighth Amendment)
Disability Discrimination Act
Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973—This law extended civil rights to people with disabilities, in particular regarding education and employment. It allows for the reasonable accommodation of such persons. Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)—This law, passed in 1990, prohibited discrimination based on disability, required employers to make reasonable accommodations for employees with disabilities, and created accessibility requirements for public accommodations.
Running for President
Seek to acquire a majority of your party's national convention delegates Compete in caucuses and primary elections Manage 50 separate state campaigns
Who approves treaties?
Senate approves treaties and must do so by a two-thirds majority vote
Federalist 51 (Madison)
Separation of powers, checks and balances
Which Constitutional principle, suggested by Montesquieu, lessens the potential harm of the national government over the people? Select the one correct answer.
Separation of powers. By separating the legislative, executive, and judicial power and placing each branch into the control of different political actors this would prevent government tyranny over the people by limiting the harm any one branch of government might do on its own.
What are measures that a president can use to influence the execution of legislation?
Signing statements and executive orders
What general civil right trend is most present in the Constitutional Amendments ratified after the Bill of Rights? Select the one correct answer.
Six of the seventeen post-Bill of Rights Amendments deal with voting.
What describes Clause 3 of Article IV, Section 2 in the Constitution?
Slave owners could reclaim their slaves in states where they had fled.
Which concept is an Enlightenment idea that influenced the leaders of the American Revolution?
Social Contract
According to the social contract theory, what is the origin of society?
Social contract theory argues that we create society to meet particular needs we individually possess and share with others.
What is an important weakness of a social contract? Select the one correct answer.
Social contracts require consensus. Social contracts can be renegotiated, through democratic processes, so they don't necessarily have to fail. A weakness is that social contracts require consensus.
Which of these describes the theory of the social contract? Select the one correct answer.
Society is not natural, but created by the people. Correct. The social contract acknowledges that the people are in relationship with the government and there are obligations the citizens have to a society.
4 types of committees
Standing Committees are permanent committees that address timeless, recurring issues. Select Committees are temporary committees set up to address or investigate an issue not covered by one of the standing committees. Joint Committees have members from both houses of Congress serving on one committee together. Conference Committees have members from both houses of Congress and reconcile different versions of the same bill that has passed both houses to form a single unified bill that goes to the president.
In Dickerson v. United States (2000), the Supreme Court ruled that Congress could not override the Miranda warning requirement established in Miranda v. Arizona (1966). This is an example of the Supreme Court's exercising:
Stare decisis Correct. The Court deferred to the precedence of an earlier decision.
What is a power reserved to the states under the Constitution?
State creates their own government systems; Nebraska only has a one house legislature by its own choice.
Shelby County v. Holder
States and localities do not need federal approval to change voting laws.
Obergefell v. Hodges (2015)
Struck down state bans on same sex marriage. The 14th Amendment requires States to license a marriage between two people of the same sex. States must recognize a marriage between two people of the same sex when their marriage was lawfully licensed and performed out-of-State. (Roberts Court)
Congressional Powers
Tax citizens Set the budget Regulate commerce Declare war Provide advice and consent on appointments Impeach individuals Oversee the powers of the judicial & executive branches
How does the Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA) differ from the Age Discrimination Act of 1975?
The ADEA prohibits against discrimination in employment, while the Age Discrimination Act protects against age discrimination in programs receiving federal funding.
Voting Rights Act (VRA) in 1965
The Act protected the rights of minority voters by prohibiting state laws that denied voting rights based on race.
Which laws require reasonable accommodations in employment for persons with disabilities? Select the two correct answers.
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973
Why was it so difficult to change the Articles of Confederation? Select the one correct answer.
The Articles of Confederation required unanimous consent by all the states for any changes. *Correct: The Articles of Confederation required that 13 out of 13 states approve of any changes. This was a nearly impossible level of agreement to reach.
What type of rights are contained in Bill of Rights? Select the two correct answers.
The Bill of Rights contains natural rights. The Bill of Rights contains procedural rights.
How does the Bill of Rights reflect the influence of Enlightenment ideas on the Constitution?
The Bill of Rights explicitly listed individual freedoms.
Which of the following protects Locke's idea of natural rights and provides Montesquieu's protections known as due process of law? Select the one correct answer.
The Bill of Rights. Correct. This addition to the Constitution focuses on protecting the liberties or freedoms by protecting such rights as freedom of speech and providing due process of law when citizens must interact with the government over legal matters.
What was the effect of the Citizens United decision on spending?
The Citizens United decision reversed the restrictions of the McCain-Feingold Act. Correct. The McCain-Feingold Act had placed major limitations on soft money spending and other creative ways of providing support for candidates.
In what key ways does the Constitution differ from the Declaration of Independence? Select the two correct answers.
The Constitution is more concerned with controlling rather than expressing the popular will. The Constitution makes justice more important than liberty. Correct. While the Declaration emphasized liberty and expressing the popular will, the Constitution was designed to control popular will and support justice.
Which was designed with a concern for the tyranny of factional majority?
The Constitution. Correct! The potential for the tyranny of factional majority was a key consideration at the time of the drafting of the Constitution. The framers drew upon Montesquieu's principles in an effort to offset factions.
What was the ruling in the Supreme Court case Miller v. Johnson?
The Court said that race could be taken into consideration, but that districts could not be drawn with only race in mind.
What is one advantage of the Electoral College system?
The Electoral College system, with its runoff procedure, has always worked. Correct. A president has always been elected with the procedure established by the Founding Fathers.
Of the choices below, which arguments are often expressed by critics of the Electoral College?
The Electoral College undermines majority rule. The Electoral College lessens political participation in "safe" states. The Electoral College violates the one-person, one-vote expectation.
Sex & Gender Discrimination
The Equal Pay Act of 1963—This law made it illegal to pay different wages to men and women who perform equal work in the same workplace. (This law was reinforced by the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act of 2009.) Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964—This law made it illegal to discriminate against people on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, or sex. It also made illegal retaliation against a person who complains about such discrimination. Title IX (Education Amendments of 1972)—This law made it illegal to discriminate on the basis of sex in any education program or activity receiving federal financial assistance. Pregnancy Discrimination Act of 1978—This law made it illegal to discriminate against women because of pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions.
Which of these is true regarding the status of the Fairness Doctrine?
The Fairness Doctrine used to require a station that discusses controversial issues to give time to discussing the different sides on the issue, but it is no longer part of the law.
Which two Constitutional Amendments are supported by the Voting Rights Act of 1965? Select the two correct answers.
The Fifteenth Amendment The Twenty-fourth Amendment
Restriction of Individual Rights Lesson Summary
The Fourteenth Amendment is meant to provide equal protection under the law for all citizens. In order to determine if a law that discriminates has a legitimate purpose, the court system uses strict scrutiny, intermediate scrutiny, and the rational basis test. Although the Fourteenth Amendment was added to the Constitution, many states sought to disenfranchise the rights granted to newly freed slaves with the use of Jim Crow laws. Although the Fourteenth Amendment was added to the Constitution, the rights of states to separate based on race was upheld in Plessy v. Ferguson (1896). The struggle for equality extends beyond race and even applies to gender, ethnicity, religion, and sexual orientation.
sunshine laws
The Freedom of Information Act and other laws designed to make government proceedings public and more transparent
What debate did the Great Compromise settle so that the Constitutional Convention could continue? Select the one correct answer.
The Great Compromise settled the debate between the large states and small states over state representation in the legislative branch Correct. The Great Compromise settled the debate between the New Jersey and Virginia Plans for state representation in the national legislature.
How far did the efforts go to remove Andrew Johnson from the office of the presidency?
The House of Representatives voted articles of impeachment, but the Senate did not vote to remove Johnson from office by the necessary two-thirds majority. Correct. Johnson was impeached, but the Senate did not muster enough votes to remove him from office.
What is the importance of the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act of 2009? Select the one correct answer.
The Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act reinforced the Equal Pay Act of 1963.
How was the Necessary and Proper Clause used to expand the powers of the federal government?
The Necessary and Proper Clause provided the federal government with powers not stated in the Constitution. Correct. The Supreme Court ruled that the Necessary and Proper Clause provides the federal government with additional implied powers.
Protections and Privacy within the Bill of Rights Lesson Summary
The Second Amendment provides for the liberty of self-defense through the relatively unrestricted ownership of firearms. The Fifth Amendment's "taking" provision grants protection to private property by requiring the government to use taken property for public use and to provide just compensation to the property's owner. The Seventh Amendment provides some certainty that civil disputes will have a neutral venue to be heard in. This allows people to contest and correct harms that have been done to them by other private parties. While the Third Amendment is something of an anachronism today, it does support the idea—more developed in the Fourth Amendment—that we have an expectation of privacy for our homes, upon which the government cannot readily intrude.
Which of these groups approve presidential nominees? Select the one correct answer.
The Senate approves nominees by majority vote.
What must be true for a recess appointment to be made?
The Senate must be in recess.
How is the Supremacy Clause connected to the power of the courts?
The Supremacy Clause asserts that the Constitution is the highest law in the land and courts may need to interpret the meaning of the Constitution to resolve a case.
What describes the Supreme Court's use of the judicial principle of stare decisis?
The Supreme Court's precedents are treated as established law.
Protection and Expansion of Individual Rights Lesson Summary
The Thirteenth, Fourteenth, and Fifteenth Amendments, also known as the Civil War Amendments, helped to end slavery and grant equal protection and voting rights to newly freed slaves after the Civil War. The Civil War Amendments were not enough to prevent discrimination against people of color, so Congress responded with the passage of both the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965. Women have also had a long battle with civil rights in the United States. Although women were active in the abolition and temperance movements, they still had not obtained suffrage rights until 1920. Women gained the right to vote with the Nineteenth Amendment. Modern issues involving women and individual rights include education rights, equal wages, and reproductive rights.
Why was the Twelfth Amendment necessary?
The Twelfth Amendment was needed because Jefferson (the presidential candidate) and Burr received the same number of electoral votes, resulting in a tie.
Breedlove v. Suttles (1937)
The Twenty-Fourth Amendment was passed in response to Breedlove v. Suttles, a court case that had declared the poll tax as constitutional. The Supreme Court upheld poll taxes as constitutional - this was in response to amendment 15 giving african americans the right to vote (they were still trying to stop them).
What was the objective of the Voting Rights Act of 1965?
The Voting Rights Act intended to remove the discriminatory practices of states, limiting the right to vote because of race. Correct. The VRA was passed to end discriminatory practices that negatively impacted racial minorities.
Which power is a congressional check on the other branches? Select the one correct answer.
The ability to override a presidential veto Correct. This power increases the power of Congress.
National Voter Registration Act (1993)
The act required states to allow citizens to register to vote when they sign up for driver's licenses and Social Security benefits.
Which statement characterizes a unitary system of government?
The central government controls the allocation of funds spent at the local level. Correct. In a unitary system, the central government controls virtually all spending directly or by how it delegates spending power to the local level.
What concern did "separation of powers" address during the Constitutional Convention? Select the one correct answer.
The concern was that increasing the power of the national government would allow it to become too powerful. Correct. Separating the government into distinct branches of government and giving each branch its own function to perform limited the ability of the national government to gain too much power.
Of the choices below, in which way are the courts limited in their power?
The courts are limited by the need for other branches or the states to carry out their decisions. Correct. Enforcement power by the judiciary is limited.
The Supreme Court has held that the death penalty is allowable under the Constitution under certain circumstances.
The death penalty is a punishment proportionate to the crime. The death penalty is not administered in a way that involves unnecessary or prolonged suffering. The use of mandatory death sentences for certain crimes violates the Eighth Amendment.
What is an argument outlined in Federalist, no. 10?
The diverse interests of the people would prevent the development of powerful political parties.
exclusionary rule
The exclusionary rule excludes illegally obtained evidence from being used in a criminal trial. Correct. Evidence obtained without a search warrant or a wrongfully obtained search warrant cannot be used.
Which level of government makes the supreme law of the land? Select the one correct answer.
The federal government Correct. The Constitution grants supremacy to the national government allowing the national government to overrule state laws when in conflict with one another.
How long is the so-called "honeymoon period" for new presidents?
The first 100 days after the inauguration
Other Checks
The impeachment process is one of the major checks that Congress has on the other two branches of government. The president and Congress share power in the area of military action. A president, as the commander-in-chief, can order the military into combat, but only Congress can issue a declaration of war against a foreign country. The courts have the power to declare laws to be unconstitutional Congress controls the jurisdiction of the courts (what kinds of cases they can hear). Congress can also change the size of the Supreme Court (although such an effort today would be considered very controversial).
The voter participation of African Americans did not increase significantly until which event?
The implementation of the Twenty-fourth Amendment Correct. The passage of the Twenty-fourth Amendment that banned poll taxes, along with the implementation other laws like the Voting Rights Act, led to significantly increased participation by African American voters.
An argument offered in opposition to judicial activism is:
The intrusion into democratic politics of unelected, and therefore unaccountable, judges. Correct. Opposition arises from judges overruling democratically derived policies.
Which statements regarding the "king caucus" are true? Select the two correct answers.
The king caucus is composed of party operatives from state legislatures and reflects the rise of political parties. It is NOT superior to the congressional caucus, nor required as part of a presidential election.
Influence of Media on Democracy Summary
The media is clearly a central part of government and politics in the United States. Mass media is a central part of a well-functioning democracy. The media communicate ideas, educate citizens, and promote awareness of the good and bad our government does. But with great power comes great responsibility. Even with strong First Amendment protections of a free press and free speech, the media must operate within ethical and legal constraints to effectively perform the roles we count on them to serve in our society.
Which ideas are embodied in the Declaration of Independence? Select the two correct answers.
The natural rights of life, liberty, and pursuit of happiness. The idea that governments are created by people to protect their natural rights. Correct. The Declaration specifically mentions life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness as well as the idea that people have the right to create or abolish governments if their natural rights are at risk.
What determines the number of members in the House of Representatives?
The number is determined by law in 1913, number is fixed at 435
president pro tempore
The official chair of the Senate; usually the most senior member of the majority party to fill in for Vice President when absent.
The Powers of the Executive Branch summary
The power of any president is limited by the system of checks and balances, but any president will have great power in a number of areas. The power of the pardon is virtually unchecked for federal crimes. The power of commander-in-chief provide him with great freedom of action and potential in the area of foreign policy. Presidents can issue executive orders in their capacity as head of the bureaucracy with limited oversight by Congress or the courts. Presidents can negotiate executive agreements with foreign leaders that do not require senatorial approval. Presidents have the opportunity to nominate individuals to cabinet-level positions, especially to the Supreme Court, and this can be extremely important. Presidents are in a unique position to attempt to persuade public opinion and Congress to support their policies. They are sometimes successful and sometimes not, but they have the opportunity to make the attempt.
Under the Constitution, who has the power related to war and peace?
The power over war and peace is shared by the president and both houses of Congress Correct. Both houses of Congress are involved in the decision to "declare war," but the Constitution makes the president the commander-in-chief of the armed forces.
Which of these are powers of the national government under the Articles of Confederation? Select one correct answer.
The power to declare war. *Correct. In fact, under the Articles of Confederation, the federal government had the power to declare war with other nations. It did not have the power to tax or to declare states' laws invalid or enforce their own laws.
enumerated powers (Explicitly-stated)
The powers explicitly given to Congress in the Constitution. enumerated power of laying and collecting taxes, borrowing and coining money, and regulating interstate commerce and the sole power to introduce legislation.
reporter's privilege
The practice of granting anonymity to sources
The Design and Evolution of the Presidency Lesson Summary
The president is now elected for a maximum of two, four-year terms and can be impeached by Congress for wrongdoing and subsequently removed from office. Executive privilege has been used by presidents to withhold information from Congress to both avoid the congressional usurping of presidential power and to protect individuals from embarrassing actions. Executive orders can be used to achieve presidential objectives. Presidents have become responsible for preparing the budget that is sent to Congress. Presidents have the power to veto legislation. Presidential activities are covered more intensively with the availability of modern media. The president is commander-in-chief of the armed forces.
Which check limits the power of Congressional law-making? Select the one correct answer.
The president's power to veto is a limitation to Congressional law-making. A simple majority is needed in both houses to pass legislation (two-thirds majority is required to override a presidential veto). The president's power to veto is a limitation to Congressional law-making.
Which major compromise was made at the Constitutional Convention?
The proportional representation of enslaved persons
What does the rational basis legal doctrine permit the government to do?
The rational basis legal doctrine permits the government to distinguish between groups if the distinction has a logical basis. Correct. The government can make distinctions between citizens when there is a rational basis for doing so such as minimum age for driving or rules for other licenses.
Bill of Rights: Individual Freedoms
The remainder of our liberties are to be found in the Bill of Rights, the first ten Amendments to the Constitution. In these Amendments, we'll find three basic types of liberties. First are those of individual freedom: Congress can make no law respecting the establishment of religion (First Amendment). Congress can make no law prohibiting the free exercise of religion (First Amendment). Congress can make no law abridging the freedom of speech (First Amendment). Congress can make no law abridging the freedom of the press (First Amendment). Congress can make no law abridging the right of the people to peaceably assemble (First Amendment). Congress can make no law abridging the right of the people to petition the government for a redress of grievances (First Amendment). The right to keep and bear arms shall not be infringed (Second Amendment).
Separation of Powers Lesson Summary
The separation of powers was designed to avoid the possibility of a tyrannical government that would ignore the rights of its citizens. Each of the three branches of government checks the other two and is, in turn, checked by the other two. The president has great power as commander-in-chief and chief diplomat. Congress passes legislation and must approve presidential nominations. Judicial review is the key power for the courts as a separate branch of government
What is the Enlightenment? Select the two correct answers.
The source of our ideas about natural rights. A period of Western European history following the Middle Ages. The Enlightenment, which took place after the Middle Ages, 1650-1800, actually occurred mainly in Great Britain, France, and Germany and its philosophy produced the idea of natural rights.
In what way is the state of nature important for constructing a social contract? Select the two correct answers.
The state of nature gives definition to natural rights. The state of nature gives definition to what it means to be human. Actually, society should be a reflection of what it means to be human, and natural rights must be acknowledged and protected in a social contract.
Which of these accurately describes John Locke's view of the state of nature?
The state of nature was peaceful and consisted of rational human beings. Correct. Even though this was John Locke's belief, he also argued that life in the state of nature was "inconvenient."
Lemon Test
The three-part test for Establishment Clause cases that a law must pass before it is declared constitutional: 1_ PURPOSE (have secular reason) The action or law must not lead to excessive government entanglement with religion; in other words, policing the boundary between government and religion should be relatively straightforward and not require extensive effort by the government. 2_ EFFECT (not inhibit or advance) The action or law can neither inhibit nor advance religious practice; it should be neutral in its effects on religion. 3_ ENTANGLEMENT (government apart from) The action or law must have some secular purpose; there must be some nonreligious justification for the law. So far as the Supreme Court is concerned, the First Amendment doesn't necessarily separate church and state. Rather, it requires government activity in this area, as noted in point two of the Lemon test, that the government's activities be neutral.
voting-age population (VAP)
The total number of persons in the United States who are 18 years of age or older.
Which of these applies to the restrictions for taking private property, imposed by the Fifth Amendment?
These restrictions serve to protect individual economic liberty. Correct. Taking is limited to specific circumstances and just compensation is required.
Which statements are true about natural rights? (Choose the two correct answers.)
They let you do what you need to survive and be secure. They impart an equality of being among all people. Correct! Since all people share the same set of natural rights given by God, they cannot be interfered with by a government.
What is generally true of primary voters?
They tend to be on more extreme ends of the political spectrum.
Bill of Rights: Hedging Our Bets
Third, there are those rights in which we hedge our bets by making clear two specific points: The listing of rights or liberties in the Constitution doesn't mean we are giving up our claims to any rights or liberties not on this list (Ninth Amendment). Any power not delegated to the federal government remains in the hands of the state or the people (Tenth Amendment).
Lobbying Disclosure Act
This act requires the registration of lobbyists representing any interest group and devoting more than 20 percent of their time to it. Clients and lobbying firms must also register with the federal government based on similar requirements. Campaign finance laws require disclosure of campaign contributions given to political candidates by organizations.
McConnell v. Federal Elections Commission.
This court case changed the rules regarding "soft money" in the campaign finance system.
What was the impact of the decision of the Supreme Court in McCulloch v. Maryland?
This decision relied on a broad interpretation of the necessary and proper clause in Article I.
Age Discrimination Act of 1975
This law prohibits discrimination on the basis of age in programs and activities that receive federal assistance, such as in education, healthcare, housing, and rehabilitation programs.
Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA) 1967
This law, passed in 1967, prohibits discrimination against persons 40 years of age or older in hiring, promotion, discharge, compensation or terms, conditions, or privileges of employment.
What is the purpose of a social contract? Select the one correct answer.
To acknowledge and protect natural rights. Correct. Social contracts are created to acknowledge and protect natural rights.
What is essential for a bill to become a law?
To become a law, it is essential for a bill to pass both the House and the Senate in identical form.
What were the goals of the grassroots movements created to oppose the racial discrimination of Jim Crow policies? Select the three correct answers.
To encourage the federal government to intervene in opposition to these policies To highlight to the American the injustices faced by African Americans living under these policies To engage with local officials and seek a change to these policies
What is a key role of standing committees in the House and the Senate?
To give a detailed hearing to all proposed legislation Correct. The committees provide a necessary division of labor for both houses of Congress.
Which is not a reason James Madison found it necessary to write Federalist, no. 10? Select the one correct answer.
To make states understand that factions did not have to exist under a strong national government Correct. Madison acknowledged that there was no way to stop factions from forming without taking away the liberty of citizens. Since they could not be stopped, he argued that their effects could be controlled through representative government.
Why did the Anti-Federalists want the government to remain closer to the people? Select the two correct answers.
To prevent the possibility of government tyranny. To keep the wealthy elites from having complete power.
Of these choices, which describes the statistic about voter turnout that will generally be larger than any of the others?
Turnout as a proportion of registered voters
McCulloch v. Maryland
Under the Necessary and Proper Clause of Article I, Section 8, the Supreme Court asserted that Congress could establish "all means which are appropriate" to fulfill "the legitimate ends" of the Constitution. In other words, the bank was an appropriate instrument that enabled the national government to carry out several of its enumerated powers, such as regulating interstate commerce, collecting taxes, and borrowing money. Supremacy Clause - MD could not tax federal bank!
The Great Compromise adopted variations from both the New Jersey and Virginia Plans in regard to the power and structure of the national legislature. Match the feature of the Great Compromise to the original plan it came from.
Under the New Jersey plan: -The Senate has equal representation regardless of population of the state. -Advocated for state sovereignty, and the compromise allowed states to remain sovereign individually. -Under the Virginia Plan, legislation would be made at the federal level. The Virginia Plan argued for population-based representation. The Virginia Plan argued for federal government sovereignty. The Virginia Plan wanted Senator appointment instead of election.
How has the Constitution's Interstate Commerce Clause been interpreted?
Very broadly, forming the justification for much of Congress's modern-day economic regulation Correct. Congress has relied on the Interstate Commerce Clause as support for its authority to pass such economic legislation as minimum wage laws.
Preamble to the Constitution
We the People of the United States, in Order to form a more perfect Union, establish Justice, insure domestic Tranquility, provide for the common defense, promote the general Welfare, and secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America.
Strict Scrutiny (linked to 14th amendment)
When fundamental freedoms or suspected classes are the targets of discrimination. "Burden of Proof on Government! The burden of proof is on government at all levels to demonstrate the need for the law or regulation The strict scrutiny test requires that the government prove there is a compelling reason for a racial, gender, or ethnic distinction. The government must demonstrate that there is an important policy goal that is being met by the law.
inherent powers (assumed to exist)
While not enumerated or implied, must be assumed to exist as a direct result of the country's existence. Not mentioned in the constitution. Example: power to control borders of the state, expand the territory of the state, defend itself from internal revolution. These powers belong only to congress and exist because the country exists.
What is the major difference between congressional budget committees and appropriations committees?
While the budget committees set overall spending limits, the appropriation committees are responsible for recommending specific allocations of funds. Correct. The Appropriations process allocates specific funds, or specific spending authority, while the budget process is concerned with the "big picture."
The need to create a cohesive message from all parts of the executive branch led to creating the position of the:
White House Office of Communications, along with the White House Press Secretary, were created to help generate consistent messaging from the executive branch.
Which is most consistently a key presidential adviser, from president to president?
Whomever the president chooses to rely upon
The Eighth Amendment's provisions for bail imply several protections. From the list of options below, which are valid implications?
You are innocent until proven guilty. Your freedom is important for preparing your defense.
The Constitutional Convention Summary
You have just examined the power structure and relationship between the states and the national government within the Constitution. Although there were many problems with the Articles of Confederation solving those problems was not easy as there were debates over just how much power the national and state governments should have under the Constitution. Ultimately, the decision to use a system of federalism proved to be a reasonable solution.
Of the choices below, which must occur before you can be tried on a criminal charge in a federal court?
You must be indicted by a federal grand jury. You have to be informed of the crime you're alleged to have committed.
What was the result of the Twenty-sixth Amendment?
Young people have maintained relatively low rates of participation. Nearly 50% of young people voted in the first election in which they were eligible to vote. While initial turnout was higher right after the Twenty-sixth amendment was passed, voter turnout by young eligible voters tends to be around 35-39%.
Elastic Clause (Necessary and Proper Clause)
a statement in the U.S. Constitution (Article I, Section 8) granting Congress the power to pass all laws necessary and proper for carrying out the enumerated list of powers.
Habeas Corpus
a writ requiring a person under arrest to be brought before a judge or into court, especially to secure the person's release unless lawful grounds are shown for their detention.
How can Congress can check the other branches of government?
advice and consent, impeachment, and oversight
Cultivation Theory
argues that mass-media exposure cultivates a view of the world that is consistent with mediated "reality"
voting-eligible population (VEP)
citizens who have reached the minimum age to be eligible to vote, excluding those who are not legally permitted to cast a ballot
general election
competing against other party nominees—your goal is to moderate your hard-core party persona to attract as many independent votes as possible. General election requires a focus on winning a majority of the electoral votes.
nomination
competing with others from your own party to be your party's nominee—your focus is on attracting votes from party members. Nomination requires winning state-level delegates in the national party convention.
Equal Rights Amendment (ERA)
constitutional amendment passed by Congress but never ratified that would have banned discrimination on the basis of gender
Implied power example
creating a central bank for the United States. Congress's imposing a draft in a time of war. Congress's giving protection to endangered species. Congress, which can regulate interstate commerce, may also regulate the harmful effects of interstate commerce. Congress's approving funding for the Louisiana purchase in 1803.
Amicus Briefs (Friend of the Court Briefs)
documents present legal arguments stating why a given court should take a case or rule a certain way or both.
Duties of the President
enforce laws; commander of military; foreign affairs; negotiate treaties; nominate cabinet and justices; review and sign or veto bills; issue pardons; address Congress yearly (State of the Union Address -required by the constitution),
Plurality
goal is to win only as many popular votes as are needed Candidate or party with the most votes cast in an election, not necessarily more than half.
prior restraint
government censorship of information before it is published or broadcast
Supermajority
greater than 50 percent, like a 2/3 vote
membership interest group
group represents a large number of people, usually paying dues, in support of common policy goals.
government interest group
group represents a set of local governments lobbying a higher level government.
three types of liberties protected in both the Constitution and the Bill of Rights
individual freedom, rights of the accused, and procedures Overall, these liberties allow us to do several things: Define who we want to be. Engage freely with others, for whatever (legal) purpose. Participate in democratic governance. Legitimately protect ourselves when accused by government of wrong-doing. Retain power not specifically granted to the federal (or state) governments. Assert claims to additional liberties.
corporate interest group
interest group represents a single company
contrast civil rights with civil liberties
limitations on government power designed to protect our fundamental freedoms.
brokered convention
no candidate gets a majority of delegates, leaving party elites to pick a nominee
What is an example of a state exercising a concurrent power?
power to tax Issuing bonds to fund an infrastructure project
pocket veto
president's power to kill a bill, if Congress is not in session, by not signing it for 10 days
First Amendment Rights
religion, speech, press, assembly, and petition
Factors Predicting Voter Turnout
socioeconomic status, age, race, and gender
Presidents who seek to prevail through persuasion target who?
target Congress, members of their own party, the public, the bureaucracy, and, when appropriate, the international community and foreign leaders. Of these audiences, perhaps the most obvious and challenging is Congress.
outside lobbying
the act of lobbying indirectly by taking the organization's message to the public, often through the use of the media and/or by issue press releases, in hopes that the public will then put pressure on lawmakers Example: When interest groups use candidate grades or ratings system to influence voters
Hypodermic theory
the idea that information is placed in a citizen's brain and accepted
minimal effects theory
the idea that the media have little effect on citizens
Census
the official count of a population The Constitution mandates a census occur every ten years to get an accurate picture of the population, for purposes of representation.
***Key Expressed Powers of Congress
the power to tax, the power to regulate commerce, the power to borrow money and coin money, the power to declare war, the power to give advice and consent, the power to impeach the president & judicial officials.
franking privileges
the privilege of sending mail without payment of postage. Congress gets this privilege Incumbents have many advantages, including war chests, franking privileges, and gerrymandering.
retrospective voting
voter looks at the candidate's past actions and the past economic climate and makes a decision only using these factors. This behavior may occur during economic downturns or after political scandals, when voters hold politicians accountable and do not wish to give the representative a second chance.
prospective voting
voting based on the imagined future performance of a candidate. Voters do appear to rely on prospective and retrospective voting more often than on pocketbook voting.
pocketbook voting
voting for the political candidate or party that benefits the voter the most financially. Someone having a harder time finding employment or seeing investments suffer during a particular candidate or party's control of government will vote for a different candidate or party than the incumbent.
defamation of character
written form (libel) or spoken form (slander)—is not protected by the First Amendment.
