Gov Unit 2 Test Review

Which of the following best describes the concept of federalism in the United States?

• A system where all power is centralized in the national government

• A system where power is divided between national and state governments

• A system where all power is held by state governments

• A system where power is equally distributed among all citizens

Answer explanation

Federalism in the United States is characterized by the division of power between national and state governments, allowing both levels to govern concurrently, which is best described by the correct choice.

What is a key limitation on the federal government's supremacy over state laws?

• Federal laws must be constitutional to be considered supreme

• States can choose which federal laws to follow

• The Supreme Court cannot rule on conflicts between state and federal laws

• The Supremacy Clause only applies to criminal laws

Answer explanation

Federal laws are supreme only if they are constitutional, as established by the Supremacy Clause. If a federal law violates the Constitution, it cannot be enforced over state laws.

What is the main function of a political party?

• To enforce laws

• To interpret the Constitution

• To organize voters and candidates around shared ideals

• To collect taxes

Answer explanation

The main function of a political party is to organize voters and candidates around shared ideals, facilitating collaboration and representation in the political process.

Which level of government is primarily responsible for issuing driver's licenses?

• Federal government

• Municipal government

• State government

• County government

Answer explanation

The state government is primarily responsible for issuing driver's licenses, as it regulates driving laws and requirements within its jurisdiction, unlike federal, municipal, or county governments.

Which of the following is a power reserved to the states under the U.S. Constitution?

• Declaring war

• Regulating interstate commerce

• Conducting elections

• Coining money

Answer explanation

Conducting elections is a power reserved to the states under the U.S. Constitution, while declaring war, regulating interstate commerce, and coining money are powers granted to the federal government.

What is the primary purpose of the Bill of Rights?

• To outline the structure of the federal government

• To limit the powers of the federal government and protect individual liberties

• To establish the process for amending the Constitution

• To define the powers of the state governments

Answer explanation

The primary purpose of the Bill of Rights is to limit the powers of the federal government and protect individual liberties, ensuring that citizens' rights are safeguarded against government overreach.

Which amendment to the U.S. Constitution abolished slavery?

• 13th Amendment

• 14th Amendment

• 15th Amendment

• 19th Amendment

Answer explanation

The 13th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, ratified in 1865, abolished slavery and involuntary servitude, making it the correct answer to the question.

What is the term for a change or addition to the U.S. Constitution?

• Article

• Amendment

• Clause

• Statute

Answer explanation

The term for a change or addition to the U.S. Constitution is 'Amendment'. Amendments are formal alterations that can modify the Constitution's text and provisions.

Which branch of the U.S. government is responsible for interpreting laws?

• Executive

• Legislative

• Judicial

• Administrative

Answer explanation

The Judicial branch of the U.S. government is responsible for interpreting laws. It includes the Supreme Court and other courts that ensure laws are applied fairly and consistently.

What is the primary role of the Executive Branch of the U.S. government?

• To make laws

• To interpret laws

• To enforce laws

• To adjudicate disputes

Answer explanation

The primary role of the Executive Branch is to enforce laws passed by the Legislative Branch. This includes implementing and administering federal laws, making it distinct from making or interpreting laws.