WorksheetsAP Gov Final Study :(
Total questions: 135
Worksheet time: 1hrs 7mins
Political Attitudes:
What factors influence political attitudes?
Cultural
Generational
Lifecycles
Periods of time
Political Attitudes:
Generational effects
experiences shared by a group of people who came of age together (generational cohorts, such as baby boomers or millennials) that affect their political attitudes; wars and economic recessions that hit one generation particularly hard have lasting effects on the political attitudes of that generation as its members progress through life
changes over the course of an individual’s lifetime, which affect their political attitudes and participation; as individuals develop from young people to adults to senior citizens, their concerns and values change
major events and social trends that affect the political attitudes of the entire population; for example, the terrorist attacks on September 11 and the Watergate scandal had lasting effects on the political attitudes of those who lived through them
Political Attitudes:
Lifecycle effects
experiences shared by a group of people who came of age together (generational cohorts, such as baby boomers or millennials) that affect their political attitudes; wars and economic recessions that hit one generation particularly hard have lasting effects on the political attitudes of that generation as its members progress through life
changes over the course of an individual’s lifetime, which affect their political attitudes and participation; as individuals develop from young people to adults to senior citizens, their concerns and values change
major events and social trends that affect the political attitudes of the entire population; for example, the terrorist attacks on September 11 and the Watergate scandal had lasting effects on the political attitudes of those who lived through them
Political Attitudes:
Period effects
experiences shared by a group of people who came of age together (generational cohorts, such as baby boomers or millennials) that affect their political attitudes; wars and economic recessions that hit one generation particularly hard have lasting effects on the political attitudes of that generation as its members progress through life
changes over the course of an individual’s lifetime, which affect their political attitudes and participation; as individuals develop from young people to adults to senior citizens, their concerns and values change
major events and social trends that affect the political attitudes of the entire population; for example, the terrorist attacks on September 11 and the Watergate scandal had lasting effects on the political attitudes of those who lived through them
American Attitudes towards Gov. and Politics:
American political culture
The values that influence individuals’ attitudes and beliefs about the relationship between citizens and the federal government.
The belief that each person should have the same opportunities to advance in society.
The belief in the right to compete freely in a market government by supply and demand with limited government involvement
The beliefs and ideas that help to shape political opinion and policy.
American Attitudes towards Gov. and Politics:
equality of opportunity
The values that influence individuals’ attitudes and beliefs about the relationship between citizens and the federal government.
The belief that each person should have the same opportunities to advance in society.
The belief in the right to compete freely in a market government by supply and demand with limited government involvement
The beliefs and ideas that help to shape political opinion and policy.
American Attitudes towards Gov. and Politics:
free enterprise
The values that influence individuals’ attitudes and beliefs about the relationship between citizens and the federal government.
The belief that each person should have the same opportunities to advance in society.
The belief in the right to compete freely in a market government by supply and demand with limited government involvement
The beliefs and ideas that help to shape political opinion and policy.
American Attitudes towards Gov. and Politics:
ideology
The values that influence individuals’ attitudes and beliefs about the relationship between citizens and the federal government.
The belief that each person should have the same opportunities to advance in society.
The belief in the right to compete freely in a market government by supply and demand with limited government involvement
The beliefs and ideas that help to shape political opinion and policy.
American Attitudes towards Gov. and Politics:
individualism
The values that influence individuals’ attitudes and beliefs about the relationship between citizens and the federal government.
A political system in which there are restrictions placed on the government to protect individual rights and liberties.
The belief in the right to compete freely in a market government by supply and demand with limited government involvement
The principle of valuing individual rights over those of the government, with a strong emphasis on individual initiative and responsibility.
American Attitudes towards Gov. and Politics:
limited government
The values that influence individuals’ attitudes and beliefs about the relationship between citizens and the federal government.
A political system in which there are restrictions placed on the government to protect individual rights and liberties.
The belief in the right to compete freely in a market government by supply and demand with limited government involvement
The principle of valuing individual rights over those of the government, with a strong emphasis on individual initiative and responsibility.
American Attitudes towards Gov. and Politics:
rule of law
A political system in which there are restrictions placed on the government to protect individual rights and liberties.
The principle that government is based on a body of law applied equally and fairly to every citizen, not on the whims of those in charge, and that no one is above the law, including the government
It is NOT part of America's core values
Free enterprise
Individualism
Patriotism
Rule of law
White protestant male farmer on the South
Reinforcing cleavages
Cross-cutting cleavages
Political ideology
Party identification
Measures inflation
Consumer Price Index (CPI)
Change in Product and Inflation (CPI)
Office of Management and Budget (OMB)
Congressional Budget Office (CBO)
Most Americans identify themselves as
Liberals
Conservatives
Libertarians
Independents
Is NOT a means tested entitlement program
Social Security Income
Medicaid
Medicare
SNAP (Food Stamps)
Younger people tend to vote for
Democrats
Republicans
Wealthier people tend to vote for
Democrats
Republicans
A libertarian would agree with
Cutting all taxes
Increasing taxes on the rich
Decreasing taxes
Widely shared beliefs, values and norms about how citizens should relate with government
Political socialization
Political culture
Political ideology
Party identification
Rich = pay more taxes
Poor = pay less taxes
(percentage)
Flat taxes
Proportional taxes
Regressive taxes
Progressive taxes
Defined as the ups and downs of the economy
Business cycle
Political socialization
Fiscal policy
Monetary policy
Done by Executive and Legislative branches
Monetary Policy
Fiscal Policy
Consumer Price Index
Federal Reserve
Ideals of Democracy:
Constitutional Convention
Also called the Philadelphia Convention. A meeting of delegates from 12 of the 13 states to revise or replace the Articles of Confederation with a new Constitution featuring a stronger central government.
A political system in which the government’s power is restricted by laws or a written Constitution.
Ideals of Democracy:
limited government
The right to life, liberty, and property, which no government may take away.
A political system in which the government’s power is restricted by laws or a written Constitution.
The principle of governing through elected representatives.
An agreement between people and government in which citizens consent to be governed so long as the government protects their natural rights.
Ideals of Democracy:
natural rights
The right to life, liberty, and property, which no government may take away.
A political system in which the government’s power is restricted by laws or a written Constitution.
The principle of governing through elected representatives.
An agreement between people and government in which citizens consent to be governed so long as the government protects their natural rights.
Ideals of Democracy:
republicanism
The right to life, liberty, and property, which no government may take away.
A political system in which the government’s power is restricted by laws or a written Constitution.
The principle of governing through elected representatives.
An agreement between people and government in which citizens consent to be governed so long as the government protects their natural rights.
Ideals of Democracy:
social contract
The right to life, liberty, and property, which no government may take away.
A political system in which the government’s power is restricted by laws or a written Constitution.
The principle of governing through elected representatives.
An agreement between people and government in which citizens consent to be governed so long as the government protects their natural rights.
Types of Democracy:
democracy
A system of government in which the power of the government is vested in the people, who rule directly or through elected representatives.
A form of democracy that emphasizes broad, direct participation in politics and civil society, in which most or all citizens participate in politics directly.
A form of democracy in which political power rests with competing interest groups so that no one group dominates political decisions.
A form of democracy in which a small number of people, usually those who are wealthy and well-educated, influence political decisionmaking.
Types of Democracy:
participatory democracy
A system of government in which the power of the government is vested in the people, who rule directly or through elected representatives.
A form of democracy that emphasizes broad, direct participation in politics and civil society, in which most or all citizens participate in politics directly.
A form of democracy in which political power rests with competing interest groups so that no one group dominates political decisions.
A form of democracy in which a small number of people, usually those who are wealthy and well-educated, influence political decisionmaking.
Types of Democracy:
pluralist democracy
A system of government in which the power of the government is vested in the people, who rule directly or through elected representatives.
A form of democracy that emphasizes broad, direct participation in politics and civil society, in which most or all citizens participate in politics directly.
A form of democracy in which political power rests with competing interest groups so that no one group dominates political decisions.
A form of democracy in which a small number of people, usually those who are wealthy and well-educated, influence political decisionmaking.
Types of Democracy:
elite democracy
A system of government in which the power of the government is vested in the people, who rule directly or through elected representatives.
A form of democracy that emphasizes broad, direct participation in politics and civil society, in which most or all citizens participate in politics directly.
A form of democracy in which political power rests with competing interest groups so that no one group dominates political decisions.
A form of democracy in which a small number of people, usually those who are wealthy and well-educated, influence political decisionmaking.
What are the democratic ideals reflected in the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution?
Social contract and limited government
Pluralist democracy and elite democracy
Popular sovereignty and federalism
Natural rights and participatory democracy
What were the Federalist and Anti-Federalist views on central government and democracy?
Federalists supported a strong central government, while Anti-Federalists wanted more power reserved to state governments
Federalists wanted limited government, while Anti-Federalists supported a large, centralized government
Federalists opposed ratification of the Constitution, while Anti-Federalists supported a strong central government
Federalists supported a small, decentralized republic, while Anti-Federalists wanted broad participatory democracy
What specific incidents highlighted key weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation?
Lack of power to coin money
Lack of an executive branch to enforce laws
Lack of power to regulate interstate commerce
Lack of centralized military power to address Shays' Rebellion
What were the compromises necessary for ratification of the Constitution?
Agreement to add a Bill of Rights, Debates about self-government, and Block grants
Great (Connecticut) Compromise, Electoral College, and Three-Fifths Compromise
Three-Fifths Compromise, Postponing the decision on banning the importation of enslaved persons, and Revenue sharing
Great (Connecticut) Compromise, Electoral College, and Mandates
How do the constitutional principles of separation of powers and checks and balances affect the U.S. political system?
They allow legal actions to be taken against public officials
They create multiple access points for stakeholders and institutions to influence public policy
They limit the power of the national government
They give exclusive power to the state governments
What are the effects of separation of powers and checks and balances for the U.S. political system?
They create multiple access points for stakeholders and institutions to influence public policy
They limit the power of the national government
They allow legal actions to be taken against public officials
They give exclusive power to the state governments
What is the significance of the Tenth Amendment in the context of federalism?
It grants all powers not delegated to the national government to the state governments
It grants all powers to the national government
It grants all powers to the state governments
It grants all powers not delegated to the state governments to the national government
Key Documents:
Federalist No. 10
An essay written by James Madison, in which he argued that a strong representative government would be able to control the effects of factions.
An Anti-Federalist essay which argued against a strong central government based on the belief that it would not be able to meet the needs of all US citizens.
The fundamental laws and principles that govern the United States. The document was the result of several compromises between Federalists and Anti-Federalists surrounding the ratification of the Constitution.
Key Documents:
Brutus No. 1
An essay written by James Madison, in which he argued that a strong representative government would be able to control the effects of factions.
An Anti-Federalist essay which argued against a strong central government based on the belief that it would not be able to meet the needs of all US citizens.
The fundamental laws and principles that govern the United States. The document was the result of several compromises between Federalists and Anti-Federalists surrounding the ratification of the Constitution.
Key Documents:
Constitution (1787)
An essay written by James Madison, in which he argued that a strong representative government would be able to control the effects of factions.
An Anti-Federalist essay which argued against a strong central government based on the belief that it would not be able to meet the needs of all US citizens.
The fundamental laws and principles that govern the United States. The document was the result of several compromises between Federalists and Anti-Federalists surrounding the ratification of the Constitution.
Challenges of the Articles of Confederation:
Articles of Confederation
The first government system of the United States, which lasted from 1776 until 1789. The Articles placed most power in the hands of state governments. Government under the Articles lacked an executive or a judicial branch.
The central government under the Articles of Confederation, composed of delegates chosen by state governments. Each state had one vote in the Congress, regardless of its population. The Congress had difficulty legislating as the Articles required nine of the thirteen states to vote to approve any measure, and a unanimous vote in order to amend the Articles themselves.
Challenges of the Articles of Confederation:
Confederation Congress
An uprising of Revolutionary War veterans in Massachusetts, who had not been paid for their military service as the federal government lacked the power to raise funds through taxation. Led by veteran Daniel Shays, the rebellion demonstrated the weaknesses of the federal government under the Articles, as it could neither raise the money to pay the veterans nor raise an army to put down the uprising.
The central government under the Articles of Confederation, composed of delegates chosen by state governments. Each state had one vote in the Congress, regardless of its population. The Congress had difficulty legislating as the Articles required nine of the thirteen states to vote to approve any measure, and a unanimous vote in order to amend the Articles themselves.
Challenges of the Articles of Confederation:
Shays' Rebellion
An uprising of Revolutionary War veterans in Massachusetts, who had not been paid for their military service as the federal government lacked the power to raise funds through taxation. Led by veteran Daniel Shays, the rebellion demonstrated the weaknesses of the federal government under the Articles, as it could neither raise the money to pay the veterans nor raise an army to put down the uprising.
The central government under the Articles of Confederation, composed of delegates chosen by state governments. Each state had one vote in the Congress, regardless of its population. The Congress had difficulty legislating as the Articles required nine of the thirteen states to vote to approve any measure, and a unanimous vote in order to amend the Articles themselves.
Who was Daniel Shays?
The President of the Proclamation of 1763
A farmer who loved his country and never did anything illegal
A founding father
A farmer who led a revolt in Massachusetts
Under the Articles of Confederation, how many states had to agree to approve a law?
3/13
7/13
9/13
12/13
Problems of the Articles of Confederation:
Problem: The national government could not tax citizens directly, only request money from the states.
Consequence:
The states rarely contributed money, meaning the national government could not pay its debts or fund initiatives.
The national government could not stop states from undermining it by making their own trade agreements with foreign nations.
States could refuse to send soldiers, making it difficult to defend the nation.
The citizens of small states had proportionally more political power than the citizens of large states.
Problems of the Articles of Confederation:
Problem: The national government could not regulate international or interstate trade.
Consequence:
The states rarely contributed money, meaning the national government could not pay its debts or fund initiatives.
The national government could not stop states from undermining it by making their own trade agreements with foreign nations.
States could refuse to send soldiers, making it difficult to defend the nation.
The citizens of small states had proportionally more political power than the citizens of large states.
Problems of the Articles of Confederation:
Problem: The national government could not raise an army, only request that the states send soldiers.
Consequence:
The states rarely contributed money, meaning the national government could not pay its debts or fund initiatives.
The national government could not stop states from undermining it by making their own trade agreements with foreign nations.
States could refuse to send soldiers, making it difficult to defend the nation.
The citizens of small states had proportionally more political power than the citizens of large states.
Problems of the Articles of Confederation:
Problem: Each state only had one vote in Congress, regardless of its population.
Consequence:
The states rarely contributed money, meaning the national government could not pay its debts or fund initiatives.
The national government could not stop states from undermining it by making their own trade agreements with foreign nations.
States could refuse to send soldiers, making it difficult to defend the nation.
The citizens of small states had proportionally more political power than the citizens of large states.
Problems of the Articles of Confederation:
Problem: The national government had no executive branch.
Consequence:
The states rarely contributed money, meaning the national government could not pay its debts or fund initiatives.
There was no effective way to resolve disputes between states, such as competing claims to the same territory.
States could refuse to send soldiers, making it difficult to defend the nation.
The national government had no way of implementing or enforcing its legislative decisions.
Problems of the Articles of Confederation:
Problem: The national government had no judicial branch.
Consequence:
The states rarely contributed money, meaning the national government could not pay its debts or fund initiatives.
There was no effective way to resolve disputes between states, such as competing claims to the same territory.
States could refuse to send soldiers, making it difficult to defend the nation.
The national government had no way of implementing or enforcing its legislative decisions.
Problems of the Articles of Confederation:
Problem: Passing laws required the approval of nine states, and amending the Articles required the approval of all thirteen states.
Consequence:
It was difficult to get enough consensus to make laws and nearly impossible to fix the Articles themselves.
There was no effective way to resolve disputes between states, such as competing claims to the same territory.
States could refuse to send soldiers, making it difficult to defend the nation.
The national government had no way of implementing or enforcing its legislative decisions.
What did Madison argue in Fed. 10?
that a large republic could control the “mischiefs of faction” and evenly distribute power between the federal government and the states.
that a powerful, centralized government was too far removed from individual citizens to meet their needs.
What did the author of Brutus No.1 argue?
that a large republic could control the “mischiefs of faction” and evenly distribute power between the federal government and the states.
that a powerful, centralized government was too far removed from individual citizens to meet their needs.
Principles of American Gov:
access point
A point in the policymaking process where ordinary citizens can influence government.
Aspects of the Constitution that require each branch of the federal government to gain the consent of the other two in order to act.
An interest group seeking to influence government for the benefit of its members. The Framers sought to prevent any one faction from gaining too much power.
The largest group that shares an opinion on any one issue, for example, whether to declare war or support a tax.
Principles of American Gov:
checks and balances
A point in the policymaking process where ordinary citizens can influence government.
Aspects of the Constitution that require each branch of the federal government to gain the consent of the other two in order to act.
An interest group seeking to influence government for the benefit of its members. The Framers sought to prevent any one faction from gaining too much power.
The largest group that shares an opinion on any one issue, for example, whether to declare war or support a tax.
Principles of American Gov:
faction
A point in the policymaking process where ordinary citizens can influence government.
Aspects of the Constitution that require each branch of the federal government to gain the consent of the other two in order to act.
An interest group seeking to influence government for the benefit of its members. The Framers sought to prevent any one faction from gaining too much power.
The largest group that shares an opinion on any one issue, for example, whether to declare war or support a tax.
Principles of American Gov:
majority
A point in the policymaking process where ordinary citizens can influence government.
Aspects of the Constitution that require each branch of the federal government to gain the consent of the other two in order to act.
An interest group seeking to influence government for the benefit of its members. The Framers sought to prevent any one faction from gaining too much power.
The largest group that shares an opinion on any one issue, for example, whether to declare war or support a tax.
Principles of American Gov:
minority
A smaller group with a differing opinion on any one issue. The Framers sought to keep majority opinions from trampling minority opinions.
Aspects of the Constitution that require each branch of the federal government to gain the consent of the other two in order to act.
The bringing of formal charges against a government officer for alleged crimes or abuses of power.
Removing a government officer from office after impeachment proceedings resulted in a conviction.
Principles of American Gov:
impeachment
A smaller group with a differing opinion on any one issue. The Framers sought to keep majority opinions from trampling minority opinions.
Aspects of the Constitution that require each branch of the federal government to gain the consent of the other two in order to act.
The bringing of formal charges against a government officer for alleged crimes or abuses of power.
Removing a government officer from office after impeachment proceedings resulted in a conviction.
Principles of American Gov:
removal
A smaller group with a differing opinion on any one issue. The Framers sought to keep majority opinions from trampling minority opinions.
Aspects of the Constitution that ascribe different elements of power to different branches of the government, which act independently. This keeps one branch of government from controlling the others.
The bringing of formal charges against a government officer for alleged crimes or abuses of power.
Removing a government officer from office after impeachment proceedings resulted in a conviction.
Principles of American Gov:
separation of powers
A smaller group with a differing opinion on any one issue. The Framers sought to keep majority opinions from trampling minority opinions.
Aspects of the Constitution that ascribe different elements of power to different branches of the government, which act independently. This keeps one branch of government from controlling the others.
The bringing of formal charges against a government officer for alleged crimes or abuses of power.
Removing a government officer from office after impeachment proceedings resulted in a conviction.
Principles of American Gov:
stakeholder
A smaller group with a differing opinion on any one issue. The Framers sought to keep majority opinions from trampling minority opinions.
A person with an interest or a concern in a political issue.
The bringing of formal charges against a government officer for alleged crimes or abuses of power.
Removing a government officer from office after impeachment proceedings resulted in a conviction.
Federalists 51, written by James Madison, argues that?
Explains how the structure of the new government under the Constitution will provide the necessary checks and balances to keep any part of the government from becoming too powerful.
argues that because people are naturally self-interested, separating the powers of government into distinct and independent branches will require them to compete with one another in order to govern, therefore limiting the power of the government as a whole.
The structure of US government established in the Constitution purposely makes....
Policy making difficult
Arguing difficult
Decision making take a long time
Taxes very high
Relationship between the States and the National Gov:
block grants
Federal grants issued to states or local governments to support broad programs
Federal grants restricted to specific purposes
Powers shared by the federal government and state governments, e.g. lawmaking and taxation
Powers reserved either to the federal government or state governments
Relationship between the States and the National Gov:
categorical grants
Federal grants issued to states or local governments to support broad programs
Federal grants restricted to specific purposes
Powers shared by the federal government and state governments, e.g. lawmaking and taxation
Powers reserved either to the federal government or state governments
Relationship between the States and the National Gov:
concurrent powers
Federal grants issued to states or local governments to support broad programs
Federal grants restricted to specific purposes
Powers shared by the federal government and state governments, e.g. lawmaking and taxation
Powers reserved either to the federal government or state governments
Relationship between the States and the National Gov:
exclusive powers
Federal grants issued to states or local governments to support broad programs
Federal grants restricted to specific purposes
Powers shared by the federal government and state governments, e.g. lawmaking and taxation
Powers reserved either to the federal government or state governments
Relationship between the States and the National Gov:
federalism
Political system that organizes government into two or more levels with independent powers; in the United States this consists of local, state, and national governments
A requirement that states or local governments meet a specific condition in order to receive federal aid
The practice of sharing federal income tax revenue with state and local governments
Powers reserved either to the federal government or state governments
Relationship between the States and the National Gov:
federal revenue sharing
Political system that organizes government into two or more levels with independent powers; in the United States this consists of local, state, and national governments
A requirement that states or local governments meet a specific condition in order to receive federal aid
The practice of sharing federal income tax revenue with state and local governments
Powers reserved either to the federal government or state governments
Relationship between the States and the National Gov:
mandate
Political system that organizes government into two or more levels with independent powers; in the United States this consists of local, state, and national governments
A requirement that states or local governments meet a specific condition in order to receive federal aid
The practice of sharing federal income tax revenue with state and local governments
Powers reserved either to the federal government or state governments
What does Article V(5) of the Constitution say?
describes the process of amending the Constitution, which requires the ratification of three-quarters of the states. This provision of the Constitution demonstrates the importance of the states in approving the workings of the US government.
establishes that the states will give “full faith and credit” to the laws of other states. States also can’t discriminate against citizens of other states if they move; any US citizen who moves to a state is entitled to the same “privileges and immunities” of citizenship in that state as someone born there.
What does Article IV(4) of the Constitution say?
describes the process of amending the Constitution, which requires the ratification of three-quarters of the states. This provision of the Constitution demonstrates the importance of the states in approving the workings of the US government.
establishes that the states will give “full faith and credit” to the laws of other states. States also can’t discriminate against citizens of other states if they move; any US citizen who moves to a state is entitled to the same “privileges and immunities” of citizenship in that state as someone born there.
Written into the Constitution in Article I, Section 8, gives the national government the power to regulate interstate commerce, but Supreme Court interpretations can influence the extent of this power
Supremacy Clause
Due Process Clause
Commerce Clause
Necessary and Proper Clause
Written into the Constitution in Article I, Section 8, gives Congress the power to make laws related to carrying out its enumerated powers, but Supreme Court interpretations can influence the extent of these powers
Necessary and Proper Clause
Supremacy Clause
Equal Protection Clause
Due Process Clause
Which are the Exclusive Federal Powers?
Coining money, Regulating interstate and foreign commerce, Regulating the mail, Declaring War, Raising Armies, Conducting Foreign Affairs, Establishing inferior courts, Establishing rules of naturalization
Taxation, Lawmaking and enforcement, Chartering Banks and corporations, Taking land for public use (eminent Domain), Establishing Courts, Borrowing Money
Conducting Elections, Establishing local govs, Providing for public health, safety, and welfare, Maintaining Militia, Ratifying Constitutional Amendments, Regulating Interstate Commerce
Which are the Exclusive State Powers?
Coining money, Regulating interstate and foreign commerce, Regulating the mail, Declaring War, Raising Armies, Conducting Foreign Affairs, Establishing inferior courts, Establishing rules of naturalization
Taxation, Lawmaking and enforcement, Chartering Banks and corporations, Taking land for public use (eminent Domain), Establishing Courts, Borrowing Money
Conducting Elections, Establishing local govs, Providing for public health, safety, and welfare, Maintaining Militia, Ratifying Constitutional Amendments, Regulating Interstate Commerce
Which are the Concurrent Powers?
Coining money, Regulating interstate and foreign commerce, Regulating the mail, Declaring War, Raising Armies, Conducting Foreign Affairs, Establishing inferior courts, Establishing rules of naturalization
Taxation, Lawmaking and enforcement, Chartering Banks and corporations, Taking land for public use (eminent Domain), Establishing Courts, Borrowing Money
Conducting Elections, Establishing local govs, Providing for public health, safety, and welfare, Maintaining Militia, Ratifying Constitutional Amendments, Regulating Interstate Commerce
Constitutional Interpretations of Federalism:
commerce clause
Part of Article I of the Constitution that gives Congress the power to regulate interstate commerce (buying and selling of goods across state lines).
An institutional arrangement that creates two relatively autonomous levels of government, each possessing the capacity to act directly on behalf of the people with the authority granted to it by the national constitution.
Powers of the federal government that are explicitly named in the Constitution.
Powers of the federal government that are not explicitly named in the Constitution but are implied so that the federal government can carry out its enumerated powers.
Constitutional Interpretations of Federalism:
federalism
Part of Article I of the Constitution that gives Congress the power to regulate interstate commerce (buying and selling of goods across state lines).
An institutional arrangement that creates two relatively autonomous levels of government, each possessing the capacity to act directly on behalf of the people with the authority granted to it by the national constitution.
Powers of the federal government that are explicitly named in the Constitution.
Powers of the federal government that are not explicitly named in the Constitution but are implied so that the federal government can carry out its enumerated powers.
Constitutional Interpretations of Federalism:
enumerated powers
Part of Article I of the Constitution that gives Congress the power to regulate interstate commerce (buying and selling of goods across state lines).
An institutional arrangement that creates two relatively autonomous levels of government, each possessing the capacity to act directly on behalf of the people with the authority granted to it by the national constitution.
Powers of the federal government that are explicitly named in the Constitution.
Powers of the federal government that are not explicitly named in the Constitution but are implied so that the federal government can carry out its enumerated powers.
Constitutional Interpretations of Federalism:
implied powers
Part of Article I of the Constitution that gives Congress the power to regulate interstate commerce (buying and selling of goods across state lines).
An institutional arrangement that creates two relatively autonomous levels of government, each possessing the capacity to act directly on behalf of the people with the authority granted to it by the national constitution.
Powers of the federal government that are explicitly named in the Constitution.
Powers of the federal government that are not explicitly named in the Constitution but are implied so that the federal government can carry out its enumerated powers.
Constitutional Interpretations of Federalism:
necessary and proper clause
Constitutional amendment that stipulates that all powers not given to the federal government are reserved to the states or the people.
Part of Article I of the Constitution that gives Congress the power to create laws that they find “necessary and proper” for performing their constitutional responsibilities.
Powers of the federal government that are explicitly named in the Constitution.
Constitutional amendment that grants citizenship, equal protection, and due process under the law to all people born in the United States.
Constitutional Interpretations of Federalism:
Tenth Amendment
Constitutional amendment that stipulates that all powers not given to the federal government are reserved to the states or the people.
Part of Article I of the Constitution that gives Congress the power to create laws that they find “necessary and proper” for performing their constitutional responsibilities.
Powers of the federal government that are explicitly named in the Constitution.
Constitutional amendment that grants citizenship, equal protection, and due process under the law to all people born in the United States.
Constitutional Interpretations of Federalism:
Fourteenth Amendment
Constitutional amendment that stipulates that all powers not given to the federal government are reserved to the states or the people.
Part of Article I of the Constitution that gives Congress the power to create laws that they find “necessary and proper” for performing their constitutional responsibilities.
Powers of the federal government that are explicitly named in the Constitution.
Constitutional amendment that grants citizenship, equal protection, and due process under the law to all people born in the United States.
Key Cases:
McCulloch v. Maryland (1819)
Supreme Court case which guaranteed the supremacy of federal laws over state laws and declared that Congress has implied powers not listed in the Constitution in order to fulfill their enumerated powers.
Supreme Court case which stopped Congress from using the commerce clause to ban guns in schools
Key Cases:
US v. Lopez (1995)
Supreme Court case which stopped Congress from using the commerce clause to ban guns in schools
Supreme Court case which guaranteed the supremacy of federal laws over state laws and declared that Congress has implied powers not listed in the Constitution in order to fulfill their enumerated powers.
What is the Electoral College?
A body of representatives from every state in the United States who formally cast votes to elect the president and vice president.
Part of Article I of the Constitution that gives Congress the power to create laws that they find “necessary and proper” for carrying out its constitutional responsibilities
Aspects of the Constitution that require each branch of the federal government to gain the consent of the other two in order to act.
The Senate and the House of Reps:
House of Representatives
The lower chamber of Congress, in which the number of representatives per state is determined by the state’s population, with 435 Representatives total. Members of the House of Representatives serve two-year terms, so they are up for reelection every two years.
The upper chamber of Congress, in which each state has two representatives regardless of population size, with 100 senators total. Senators serve six-year terms, with one-third of them running for reelection every two years.
The Senate and the House of Reps:
Senate
The lower chamber of Congress, in which the number of representatives per state is determined by the state’s population, with 435 Representatives total. Members of the House of Representatives serve two-year terms, so they are up for reelection every two years.
The upper chamber of Congress, in which each state has two representatives regardless of population size, with 100 senators total. Senators serve six-year terms, with one-third of them running for reelection every two years.
What are constituents?
Voters in a legislative district.
An alliance of political groups pursuing a common goal.
What is a coalition?
Voters in a legislative district.
An alliance of political groups pursuing a common goal.
Structures, powers, and functions of Congress:
cloture
A Senate procedure through which a supermajority of 60 senators can vote to limit the amount of time spent debating a bill and cut off a filibuster.
A committee of the House on which all representatives serve in order to consider the details of a proposal.
A petition signed by members of the House of Representatives to bring a bill out of committee and onto the floor for a vote.
A tactic used by senators to block a bill by continuing to hold the floor and speak, adhering to the Senate rule of unlimited debate. The purpose of this tactic is to continue to speak for so long that the bill’s supporters eventually back down.
Structures, powers, and functions of Congress:
Committee of the Whole
A Senate procedure through which a supermajority of 60 senators can vote to limit the amount of time spent debating a bill and cut off a filibuster.
A committee of the House on which all representatives serve in order to consider the details of a proposal.
A petition signed by members of the House of Representatives to bring a bill out of committee and onto the floor for a vote.
A tactic used by senators to block a bill by continuing to hold the floor and speak, adhering to the Senate rule of unlimited debate. The purpose of this tactic is to continue to speak for so long that the bill’s supporters eventually back down.
Structures, powers, and functions of Congress:
discharge petition
A Senate procedure through which a supermajority of 60 senators can vote to limit the amount of time spent debating a bill and cut off a filibuster.
A committee of the House on which all representatives serve in order to consider the details of a proposal.
A petition signed by members of the House of Representatives to bring a bill out of committee and onto the floor for a vote.
A tactic used by senators to block a bill by continuing to hold the floor and speak, adhering to the Senate rule of unlimited debate. The purpose of this tactic is to continue to speak for so long that the bill’s supporters eventually back down.
Structures, powers, and functions of Congress:
filibuster
A Senate procedure through which a supermajority of 60 senators can vote to limit the amount of time spent debating a bill and cut off a filibuster.
A committee of the House on which all representatives serve in order to consider the details of a proposal.
A petition signed by members of the House of Representatives to bring a bill out of committee and onto the floor for a vote.
A tactic used by senators to block a bill by continuing to hold the floor and speak, adhering to the Senate rule of unlimited debate. The purpose of this tactic is to continue to speak for so long that the bill’s supporters eventually back down.
Structures, powers, and functions of Congress:
House Rules Committee
The use of federal funding to finance localized projects, typically bringing money into a representative’s district in order to please constituents and boost the representative’s chances of winning reelection.
When two legislators agree to trade votes for each other’s benefit.
The committee responsible for scheduling and managing the flow of legislation on the floor of the House of Representatives in order to make the process more efficient and manageable. The committee can also make it easier or more difficult for a bill to pass depending on the rules they create.
Structures, powers, and functions of Congress:
logrolling
The use of federal funding to finance localized projects, typically bringing money into a representative’s district in order to please constituents and boost the representative’s chances of winning reelection.
When two legislators agree to trade votes for each other’s benefit.
The committee responsible for scheduling and managing the flow of legislation on the floor of the House of Representatives in order to make the process more efficient and manageable. The committee can also make it easier or more difficult for a bill to pass depending on the rules they create.
Structures, powers, and functions of Congress:
pork barrel legislation
The use of federal funding to finance localized projects, typically bringing money into a representative’s district in order to please constituents and boost the representative’s chances of winning reelection.
The presiding officer of the House of Representatives and de facto leader of the majority party.
The Vice President of the United States, who presides over the Senate’s daily proceedings.
Structures, powers, and functions of Congress:
President of the Senate
The use of federal funding to finance localized projects, typically bringing money into a representative’s district in order to please constituents and boost the representative’s chances of winning reelection.
The presiding officer of the House of Representatives and de facto leader of the majority party.
The Vice President of the United States, who presides over the Senate’s daily proceedings.
Structures, powers, and functions of Congress:
Speaker of the House
The use of federal funding to finance localized projects, typically bringing money into a representative’s district in order to please constituents and boost the representative’s chances of winning reelection.
The presiding officer of the House of Representatives and de facto leader of the majority party.
The Vice President of the United States, who presides over the Senate’s daily proceedings.
Congressional Behavior:
gridlock
When the government is unable to reach compromises or make policy decisions.
A firm supporter of one political party.
The process of adjusting electoral districts in the United States.
The act of changing the boundaries of an electoral district to favor one party over another.
Congressional Behavior:
partisan
The process of adjusting electoral districts in the United States.
A firm supporter of one political party.
The act of changing the boundaries of an electoral district to favor one party over another.
When one party controls one or more houses in the legislative branch while the other party controls the executive branch.
Congressional Behavior:
redistricting
The process of adjusting electoral districts in the United States.
A firm supporter of one political party.
The act of changing the boundaries of an electoral district to favor one party over another.
When one party controls one or more houses in the legislative branch while the other party controls the executive branch.
Congressional Behavior:
gerrymandering
The process of adjusting electoral districts in the United States.
A firm supporter of one political party.
The act of changing the boundaries of an electoral district to favor one party over another.
When one party controls one or more houses in the legislative branch while the other party controls the executive branch.
Congressional Behavior:
divided government
A member of Congress who takes into account the views of their constituents and use their own judgment to decide how to vote.
An elected official who continues to hold political office during the period between the election and the inauguration of their successor.
A member of Congress who always follows their constituents’ voting preferences.
When one party controls one or more houses in the legislative branch while the other party controls the executive branch.
Congressional Behavior:
'lame duck'
A member of Congress who takes into account the views of their constituents and use their own judgment to decide how to vote.
An elected official who continues to hold political office during the period between the election and the inauguration of their successor.
A member of Congress who always follows their constituents’ voting preferences.
When one party controls one or more houses in the legislative branch while the other party controls the executive branch.
Congressional Behavior:
trustee
A member of Congress who takes into account the views of their constituents and use their own judgment to decide how to vote.
An elected official who continues to hold political office during the period between the election and the inauguration of their successor.
A member of Congress who always follows their constituents’ voting preferences.
When one party controls one or more houses in the legislative branch while the other party controls the executive branch.
Congressional Behavior:
delegate
A member of Congress who takes into account the views of their constituents and use their own judgment to decide how to vote.
A member of Congress who acts as a delegate on issues that their constituents care about, and as a trustee on issues that their constituents don’t care about.
A member of Congress who always follows their constituents’ voting preferences.
When one party controls one or more houses in the legislative branch while the other party controls the executive branch.
Congressional Behavior:
politico
A member of Congress who takes into account the views of their constituents and use their own judgment to decide how to vote.
A member of Congress who acts as a delegate on issues that their constituents care about, and as a trustee on issues that their constituents don’t care about.
A member of Congress who always follows their constituents’ voting preferences.
When one party controls one or more houses in the legislative branch while the other party controls the executive branch.
Key Cases:
Baker v. Carr (1961)
The Court ruled that Tennessee had acted unconstitutionally by not redistricting since 1901; establishing both the "one-person, one-vote" principle - that districts should be proportionately represented - and that the Court had jurisdiction to review state redistricting issues.
This case established that although legislative redistricting must be conscious of race and comply with the Voting Rights Act of 1965, it cannot exceed what is reasonably necessary to avoid racial imbalances.
Key Cases:
Shaw v. Reno (1993)
The Court ruled that Tennessee had acted unconstitutionally by not redistricting since 1901; establishing both the "one-person, one-vote" principle - that districts should be proportionately represented - and that the Court had jurisdiction to review state redistricting issues.
This case established that although legislative redistricting must be conscious of race and comply with the Voting Rights Act of 1965, it cannot exceed what is reasonably necessary to avoid racial imbalances.
Roles and Powers of the President:
cabinet
A group of presidential advisers, including the heads of the executive departments, the attorney general, and other officials chosen by the president.
An international agreement between the president and another country, which does not require the consent of the Senate.
A presidential order to the executive branch that carries the force of law. The Supreme Court can rule executive orders unconstitutional.
An indirect veto, which the president can use by neither signing or vetoing a bill passed by Congress fewer than 10 days before it adjourns.
Roles and Powers of the President:
executive agreement
A group of presidential advisers, including the heads of the executive departments, the attorney general, and other officials chosen by the president.
An international agreement between the president and another country, which does not require the consent of the Senate.
A presidential order to the executive branch that carries the force of law. The Supreme Court can rule executive orders unconstitutional.
An indirect veto, which the president can use by neither signing or vetoing a bill passed by Congress fewer than 10 days before it adjourns.
Roles and Powers of the President:
executive order
A group of presidential advisers, including the heads of the executive departments, the attorney general, and other officials chosen by the president.
An international agreement between the president and another country, which does not require the consent of the Senate.
A presidential order to the executive branch that carries the force of law. The Supreme Court can rule executive orders unconstitutional.
An indirect veto, which the president can use by neither signing or vetoing a bill passed by Congress fewer than 10 days before it adjourns.
Roles and Powers of the President:
pocket veto
A group of presidential advisers, including the heads of the executive departments, the attorney general, and other officials chosen by the president.
An international agreement between the president and another country, which does not require the consent of the Senate.
A presidential order to the executive branch that carries the force of law. The Supreme Court can rule executive orders unconstitutional.
An indirect veto, which the president can use by neither signing or vetoing a bill passed by Congress fewer than 10 days before it adjourns.
Roles and Powers of the president:
signing statement
A presidential statement upon signing a bill into law, which explains how a president’s administration intends to interpret the law.
The president’s annual message to a joint session of Congress, which includes recommended legislation and evaluations of the nation’s top priorities and economic health.
The president’s constitutional right to reject a law passed by Congress. Congress may override the president’s veto with a two-thirds vote.
Roles and Powers of the president:
State of the Union address
A presidential statement upon signing a bill into law, which explains how a president’s administration intends to interpret the law.
The president’s annual message to a joint session of Congress, which includes recommended legislation and evaluations of the nation’s top priorities and economic health.
The president’s constitutional right to reject a law passed by Congress. Congress may override the president’s veto with a two-thirds vote.
Roles and Powers of the president:
veto
A presidential statement upon signing a bill into law, which explains how a president’s administration intends to interpret the law.
The president’s annual message to a joint session of Congress, which includes recommended legislation and evaluations of the nation’s top priorities and economic health.
The president’s constitutional right to reject a law passed by Congress. Congress may override the president’s veto with a two-thirds vote.
Checks on the Presidency:
presidential nomination
A president’s formal proposal of a candidate to fill a position, such as a cabinet member or Supreme Court justice.
Senate approval of a presidential nomination.
A rule or order issued by the president without the cooperation of Congress that carries the force of law.
Checks on the Presidency:
confirmation
A president’s formal proposal of a candidate to fill a position, such as a cabinet member or Supreme Court justice.
Senate approval of a presidential nomination.
A rule or order issued by the president without the cooperation of Congress that carries the force of law.
Checks on the Presidency:
executive order
A president’s formal proposal of a candidate to fill a position, such as a cabinet member or Supreme Court justice.
Senate approval of a presidential nomination.
A rule or order issued by the president without the cooperation of Congress that carries the force of law.
Expansion of presidential powers:
formal powers
Powers expressly granted to the president under Article II of the Constitution. Examples include making treaties, commanding the military, appointing Supreme Court justices, and vetoing legislation.
Powers claimed by presidents as necessary in order to execute the law. Examples include issuing executive orders and negotiating executive agreements.
Expansion of presidential powers:
informal powers
Powers expressly granted to the president under Article II of the Constitution. Examples include making treaties, commanding the military, appointing Supreme Court justices, and vetoing legislation.
Powers claimed by presidents as necessary in order to execute the law. Examples include issuing executive orders and negotiating executive agreements.
Expansion of presidential power:
single executive
An executive branch led by a single person.
The Twenty-second Amendment to the US Constitution applies term limits to the office of the president. Under the Twenty-second Amendment, no one may be elected president more than twice, or serve as president longer than ten years.
Also called the War Powers Resolution, the War Powers Act limits the president’s power to deploy US armed forces. Every president since Nixon has contested the War Powers Act as an infringement of their role as Commander in Chief of the armed forces.
Expansion of presidential power:
Twenty-second Amendment (1951)
An executive branch led by a single person.
applies term limits to the office of the president. Under the Twenty-second Amendment, no one may be elected president more than twice, or serve as president longer than ten years.
limits the president’s power to deploy US armed forces. Every president since Nixon has contested the War Powers Act as an infringement of their role as Commander in Chief of the armed forces.
Expansion of presidential power:
War Powers Act (1973)
An executive branch led by a single person.
applies term limits to the office of the president. Under the Twenty-second Amendment, no one may be elected president more than twice, or serve as president longer than ten years.
limits the president’s power to deploy US armed forces. Every president since Nixon has contested the War Powers Act as an infringement of their role as Commander in Chief of the armed forces.
What is Fed N.70 (1788)
“The Executive Department Further Considered,” written by Alexander Hamilton. In this essay, Hamilton argues that a single executive (led by one person as president, rather than several people acting as a council) is the best form for the executive branch of the United States.
“The Executive Department Further Considered,” written by James Madison. In this essay, Madison argues that a group of people is the best form for the executive branch of the United States, to be succesfull.
Presidential communication:
State of the Union
An annual presidential report required by the Constitution, conventionally delivered as a speech to Congress since 1913 and televised since 1947. The president can use the State of the Union to set their policy agenda and recommend policies to members of Congress.
Theodore Roosevelt’s notion of the presidency as a platform from which the president could promote an agenda directly to the public.
Presidential communications:
bully pulpit
An annual presidential report required by the Constitution, conventionally delivered as a speech to Congress since 1913 and televised since 1947. The president can use the State of the Union to set their policy agenda and recommend policies to members of Congress.
Theodore Roosevelt’s notion of the presidency as a platform from which the president could promote an agenda directly to the public.
How has technology influenced the way that presidents communicate?
Presidents have leveraged changes in communication technology to enhance their power by appealing directly to the American public. In the twenty-first century, presidents have used social media to reach large audiences of Americans and to respond rapidly to political issues.
It has only made their chances of reelection decrease.
It helps sometimes, but most of the time its very useless.
How does the president communicate to the national constituency and Congress?
When setting a policy agenda, presidents have taken advantage of contemporary technology and social media to influence the national constituency, promoting presidential policy goals via the president’s bully pulpit. The State of the Union is an opportunity for presidents to inform Congress and the American public of policy goals, and to signal which legislation they may veto.
When he communicates to Congress and the nations people, he just creates more conflict making it harder to know what legislation his constituents would want him to pass.
