TEXAS GOVERNMENT

What is the main purpose of the Texas Constitution?

• To declare independence from Mexico.
• To establish a new government for Texas with laws and limitations.
• To provide citizens with a written record of the Convention.
• To lay the groundwork to be annexed to the United States.

The Supreme Court is the head of which branch of government?

• judicial
• legislative
• executive
• Congress

Why is the Texas government separated between 3 branches?

• to increase the powers of each branch of government.
• to make specific agencies responsible for specific tasks.
• to make sure no branch becomes too powerful.
• to ensure voters know which party to vote for.

According to the principle of popular sovereignty, all political power comes from the 

• people
• federal government
• local government
• state government

*Both the U.S. and Texas establish courts.
*State governments and the U.S. government collect taxes.
*Both the U.S. government and the Texas government have the power to punish criminals.
These characteristics are an example of which principle of government?   

• federalism
• limited government
• individual rights
• republicanism

To protect the rights of citizens, the writers of the Texas Constitution included a

• Conference Committee.
• Court of Appeals
• Bill of Rights.             
• Declaration of Independence.

Which of the following is a power held by the governor of Texas?

• Creating new laws.
• Impeaching officials accused of crimes.
• Appointing certain state officials.
• Declaring laws to be unconstitutional.

"For democracy to work, the people must be able to stay informed an to freely discuss issues. "
what right does this represent?

• Right to keep and bear arms.
• Freedom of speech and the press.
• Protection from search and seizures.
• Freedom of religion.

Which of the following actions would be protected by this passage from the Texas Bill of Rights?"The citizens shall have the right, in a peaceable manner, to assemble together for their common good;"

• Forcing lawmakers to leave the state when they pass a new law.
• Attacking police officers who have broken the law.
• Refusing to pay taxes that people feel are unfair.
• Gathering at the Texas capitol to peacefully protest a law.

How does the Texas Constitution reflect the principles of separation of powers and checks and balances?

• The government is divided into three branches, each having a check on the others.
• The governor has the power to write new laws.
• The constitution may be amended if the voters approve.
• Interest groups try to persuade legislators to support their position.