GSSP 330 Chapter 13 Key Terms: Congress

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A situation in which political parties are divided by ideological differences, leading to a lack of compromise and increased political tension.

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Partisan Polarization

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A legislative body with two chambers or houses, such as the U.S. Congress, which consists of the Senate and the House of Representatives.

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Bicameral Legislature

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A tactic used in the Senate to delay or block legislative action by extending debate on the measure through talking indefinitely.

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Filibuster

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Electoral districts in which the majority of the constituents belong to racial or ethnic minorities.

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Majority-Minority Districts

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The idea that elected representatives should represent not only the interests but also the descriptive characteristics (such as race, gender, etc.) of their constituents.

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Descriptive Representation

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Ability of citizens to elect officials who will enact into law policies that the citizens favor.

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Substantive Representation

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Electoral districts where the winning candidate receives less than 55% of the vote, indicating a competitive race.

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Marginal Districts

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Electoral districts in which the incumbent has a secure chance of winning, often receiving more than 55% of the vote.

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Safe Districts

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An alliance between conservative Democrats and Republicans, often seen in legislative contexts.

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Conservative Coalition

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The head of the majority party in a legislative body, responsible for setting the legislative agenda.

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Majority Leader