The U.S. Congress in Twenty Minutes (2 of 2)

The video tutorial discusses the role of Congress as a co-equal branch of government, focusing on the filibuster's function in the Senate. It reviews the dynamics between the House and Senate, historical events like the Treaty of Versailles and Watergate, and the powers of Congress, including declaring war. The tutorial also touches on political ideologies, contrasting Republican and Democratic views on government roles.

What is the primary purpose of a filibuster in the Senate?

• To allow the majority to pass legislation quickly

• To enable the minority to delay or block legislation

• To ensure all senators have equal speaking time

• To expedite the nomination process for Supreme Court picks

What is required to end a filibuster in the Senate?

• A cloture vote with 60 votes

• A presidential veto

• A simple majority vote

• A unanimous decision by the Senate

What was the Great Compromise in the context of Congress?

• An agreement to have a single legislative body

• A decision to base the Senate on equality and the House on population

• A treaty between the U.S. and foreign nations

• A compromise to allow the president to declare war

Which historical event demonstrated Congress's power to investigate the president?

• The signing of the Treaty of Versailles

• The Watergate scandal

• The election of 1800

• The Gulf of Tonkin Resolution

Who has the constitutional power to declare war?

• The President

• The Supreme Court

• Congress

• The Secretary of Defense

What was the purpose of the War Powers Act?

• To permit states to control military operations

• To allow Congress to reclaim military authority after 60 days

• To give the president unlimited military power

• To enable the Supreme Court to oversee military actions

How do Republicans and Democrats generally differ in their view of government's role?

• Both parties agree on a larger government role

• Democrats see a larger government role, while Republicans prefer a limited government

• Republicans favor a larger government role, while Democrats prefer a limited government

• Both parties agree on a limited government role