3 Branches of Government

Why was the Reapportionment Act of 1929 passed?

• The number of senators per state was changing as the country expanded.

• Congressional districts were redrawn to establish safe seats for the political parties.

• Membership in the House needed to be capped to prevent an excessive number of members.

• The House was limited to two representatives per state.

Which group does the president most rely upon for day-to-day advice

• the cabinet

• the Congressional Budget Office

• the Executive Office of the President

• state governors

Why do federal district courts not try cases dealing with military matters, grievances against the government, or tax disputes?

• Congress has created specialized courts to deal with such cases.

• Such cases are tried only in state courts, not in federal courts.

• Original jurisdiction for such cases belongs to the Supreme Court.

• They cannot be expected to rule impartially on cases involving the government.

How are all courts, except the US Supreme Court, established?

• by Congress

• by the states

• by presidential executive order

• by the Constitution

In the event of the president’s death or resignation, who would be next in line to become president?

• the vice president

• the secretary of state

• the secretary of defense

• the Speaker of the House of Representatives

Who are the only people who may introduce a bill in the House of Representatives?

• employees of federal agencies

• committee staff and aides

• members of the House of Representatives

• lobbyists for special interest groups

When is the president of the Senate allowed to vote on legislative matters?

• to end debate on the floor

• to bring bills to the floor for debate

• to register the position of the executive branch

• to break a tie vote on a bill

What is the primary source of uncertainty over the limits on presidential power?

• The constitutional definition of executive powers is broad and unspecific.

• Some presidents win their elections by greater margins than others.

• Constitutional amendments have greatly increased presidential powers.

• Some presidents increase power in times of need.

How long is the term of a federal judge in a constitutional court?

• six years

• four years

• lifetime

• two years

What legal document explains the legal reasoning behind a Supreme Court decision?

• the majority opinion

• the minority opinion

• stare decisis

• amicus curiae