Exploring the Legislative Branch of the United States Government

The video explores the legislative branch's role in the U.S., focusing on the process of lawmaking and the checks and balances system. It highlights the historical context of the 1963 civil rights movement and the challenges faced in passing the Civil Rights Act. The structure of Congress, with its two houses, is explained, along with the roles of committees and public influence in shaping legislation. The video concludes by emphasizing the importance of the legislative branch in representing the people's voice.

Where does the idea for a law often start in America?

• The Supreme Court

• The President

• The Senate

• The people governed by it

Why does Congress have two houses?

• To ensure checks and balances

• To divide the workload

• To separate federal and state laws

• To represent different political parties

What is the primary role of the Senate?

• To guarantee the rights of the majority

• To guarantee the rights of the minority

• To oversee the executive branch

• To manage the federal budget

Who has the authority to declare war according to the Constitution?

• The President

• The Supreme Court

• The Senate

• Congress

What significant power does the legislative branch have over the executive branch?

• Veto power

• Impeachment

• Appointment of judges

• Judicial review

What was the label given to the Civil Rights Act when it started in the House?

• S 7152

• HR 7152

• CR 7152

• Bill 7152

Who became the key supporter of the Civil Rights Act in the Senate?

• Hubert Humphrey

• John F. Kennedy

• Lyndon B. Johnson

• Everett Dirksen

What is the purpose of a filibuster in the Senate?

• To speed up the voting process

• To amend existing laws

• To delay or block legislative action

• To introduce new bills

What role do committees play in Congress?

• They declare war

• They conduct hearings and review bills

• They pass final laws

• They appoint Supreme Court justices

How can citizens influence their representatives in Congress?

• By joining the executive branch

• By voting in presidential elections

• By writing letters, emails, and making phone calls

• By attending Supreme Court hearings