State and Local Governments: Power and Participation

This video discusses the significance of state and local governments, emphasizing their power and direct impact on daily life. It explains the structure of state governments, including the executive, legislative, and judicial branches, and highlights the checks and balances system. The video also covers local government roles, such as mayors and city councils, and their responsibilities in managing local issues. It encourages civic engagement by showing how citizens can influence government decisions at the state and local levels.

Why is it important to understand state and local governments?

• They have no real impact on daily life.

• They are more powerful than the federal government.

• They directly affect daily life and are easier to influence.

• They are identical to national politics.

What is a key responsibility of a state governor?

• Managing international relations

• Running the federal government

• Overseeing national defense

• Creating a state budget

How are most state legislatures structured?

• With no chambers

• With a single chamber

• With two chambers similar to the U.S. Congress

• With three chambers

What is a referendum?

• A proposal for the ballot

• A vote on proposed legislation

• A recall of elected officials

• A type of state tax

How can citizens influence state legislation directly?

• By starting initiatives and voting on referendums

• By voting in federal elections

• By running for president

• By joining the military

What is the role of a county government?

• Managing international trade

• Running elections and providing protection

• Creating federal laws

• Overseeing national parks

Who typically runs a city?

• A governor

• A mayor

• A senator

• A president

What is a primary function of city councils?

• Overseeing the military

• Creating state laws

• Voting on important city issues

• Managing international relations

What is the role of a school board?

• Managing city parks

• Negotiating with teachers and approving school policies

• Overseeing state taxes

• Running the Department of Motor Vehicles

What is a common responsibility of local governments?

• Managing international trade

• Overseeing local issues like housing and transportation

• Creating federal laws

• Running the national defense