Government and Political Terms

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Senate

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A legislative chamber in the bicameral legislature of the United States, along with the House of Representatives.

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Ex Post Facto

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A law that retroactively changes the legal consequences of actions that were committed before the enactment of the law.

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House of Representatives

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The lower chamber of the United States Congress, with members elected to represent districts.

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Expressed Power

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Powers specifically granted to the federal government by the Constitution.

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Implied Power

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Powers not explicitly stated in the Constitution but are necessary and proper to execute the expressed powers.

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Impeach

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To charge a public official with misconduct in office.

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Casework

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Assistance provided by members of Congress to constituents who encounter a grievance with a federal agency or the federal government.

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Filibuster

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A prolonged speech that obstructs progress in a legislative assembly.

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Roll-call vote

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A voting process where each legislator's vote is recorded.

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Veto

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The power of the president to reject a bill passed by the legislature.