Branches Of Government Practice Test
This is a practice test for branches of US government. Be sure to include your first name and last name's initial along with your period number (e. G. : Dave B. P2, Sue D. P6 or Randy Q. P7) in the box where it wants you to put your name.
Questions and Answers
- 1.
Which branch of US government can propose amendments to the Constitution?
- A.
Legislative
- B.
Executive
- C.
Judicial
Correct Answer
A. LegislativeExplanation
The legislative branch of the US government, which consists of Congress (the House of Representatives and the Senate), has the power to propose amendments to the Constitution. This power is granted by Article V of the Constitution, which outlines the process for amending the Constitution. The legislative branch plays a crucial role in proposing and passing amendments, which can then be ratified by the states to become part of the Constitution. The executive and judicial branches, on the other hand, do not have the authority to propose amendments.Rate this question:
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- 2.
Which branch of US government can propose bills?
- A.
Legislative
- B.
Executive
- C.
Judicial
Correct Answer
A. LegislativeExplanation
The legislative branch of the US government, which consists of the Congress, can propose bills. This branch is responsible for making laws and has the power to introduce new legislation. The executive branch, headed by the President, enforces the laws, while the judicial branch, which includes the Supreme Court, interprets the laws. However, it is the legislative branch that has the authority to propose bills and initiate the lawmaking process.Rate this question:
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- 3.
Which branch of US government can declare executive actions unconstitutional?
- A.
Legislative
- B.
Executive
- C.
Judicial
Correct Answer
C. JudicialExplanation
The branch of US government that can declare executive actions unconstitutional is the Judicial branch. This branch is responsible for interpreting and applying the law, and has the power to review the constitutionality of executive actions. This is done through the process of judicial review, where the courts can declare executive actions as unconstitutional if they violate the principles and provisions outlined in the Constitution.Rate this question:
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- 4.
Which branch of US government has the person who serves as commander and chief of the military?
- A.
Legislative
- B.
Executive
- C.
Judicial
Correct Answer
B. ExecutiveExplanation
The correct answer is Executive. The person who serves as commander and chief of the military in the US government is the President, who is a part of the executive branch. The executive branch is responsible for enforcing laws and the President holds the highest position within this branch. As commander in chief, the President has the authority to make important decisions regarding the military and its operations.Rate this question:
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- 5.
Which branch of US government can formally accuse Justices of crimes related to his/her duties?
- A.
Legislative
- B.
Executive
- C.
Judicial
Correct Answer
A. LegislativeExplanation
The correct answer is Legislative. The Legislative branch of the US government has the power to formally accuse Justices of crimes related to their duties. This is part of the system of checks and balances in place to ensure accountability and prevent abuse of power within the government. The Legislative branch, which consists of the House of Representatives and the Senate, can initiate impeachment proceedings against Justices if there is evidence of wrongdoing.Rate this question:
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- 6.
Which branch of US government has the power of impeachment?
- A.
Legislative
- B.
Executive
- C.
Judicial
Correct Answer
A. LegislativeExplanation
The legislative branch of the US government has the power of impeachment. This power allows the Congress to bring charges against the President, Vice President, or any civil officer for committing "high crimes and misdemeanors." The House of Representatives has the authority to initiate the impeachment process by bringing forth articles of impeachment, while the Senate conducts the trial to determine whether to remove the individual from office. This power serves as a crucial system of checks and balances to hold government officials accountable for their actions.Rate this question:
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- 7.
Which branch of US government can declare laws unconstitutional?
- A.
Legislative
- B.
Executive
- C.
Judicial
Correct Answer
C. JudicialExplanation
The branch of the US government that can declare laws unconstitutional is the Judicial branch. This branch is responsible for interpreting the laws and ensuring they align with the Constitution. The power to declare laws unconstitutional is known as judicial review and was established by the landmark Supreme Court case, Marbury v. Madison, in 1803. This allows the Judicial branch to act as a check on the other branches of government and protect individual rights.Rate this question:
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- 8.
Which branch of US government has the power to sign treaties?
- A.
Legislative
- B.
Executive
- C.
Judicial
Correct Answer
B. ExecutiveExplanation
The executive branch of the US government has the power to sign treaties. This branch, headed by the President, is responsible for conducting foreign relations and negotiating agreements with other countries. The President, as the chief diplomat, has the authority to negotiate and sign treaties on behalf of the United States. The executive branch plays a crucial role in shaping the country's foreign policy and establishing international agreements.Rate this question:
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- 9.
Which branch of US government ratifies (approves) treaties?
- A.
Legislative
- B.
Executive
- C.
Judicial
Correct Answer
A. LegislativeExplanation
The legislative branch of the US government ratifies (approves) treaties. This branch, also known as Congress, is responsible for making laws and has the power to approve or reject treaties negotiated by the executive branch. The process involves the Senate reviewing and voting on the treaty, requiring a two-thirds majority for ratification. The legislative branch's role in treaty ratification ensures a system of checks and balances, allowing for democratic decision-making and preventing the executive branch from having unchecked power in international agreements.Rate this question:
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- 10.
Which branch of US government gets its power from Article One of the US Constitution?
- A.
Legislative
- B.
Executive
- C.
Judicial
Correct Answer
A. LegislativeExplanation
The branch of the US government that gets its power from Article One of the US Constitution is the Legislative branch. Article One establishes the powers and responsibilities of the Congress, which is the legislative body of the United States. This branch is responsible for making laws, overseeing the federal budget, and conducting investigations. The Executive branch, on the other hand, is responsible for enforcing laws, while the Judicial branch interprets and applies the laws.Rate this question:
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- 11.
Which branch of US government gets its power from Article Two of the US Constitution?
- A.
Legislative
- B.
Executive
- C.
Judicial
Correct Answer
B. ExecutiveExplanation
The branch of US government that gets its power from Article Two of the US Constitution is the Executive branch. Article Two establishes the powers and responsibilities of the President of the United States, including the authority to enforce laws, command the military, and make appointments. The Executive branch is responsible for implementing and executing laws passed by the Legislative branch, as well as representing the United States in foreign affairs.Rate this question:
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- 12.
Which branch of US government gets its power from Article Three of the US Constitution?
- A.
Legislative
- B.
Executive
- C.
Judicial
Correct Answer
C. JudicialExplanation
The branch of the US government that gets its power from Article Three of the US Constitution is the Judicial branch. Article Three establishes the judicial branch and outlines its powers and responsibilities. It grants the authority to interpret laws, resolve disputes, and ensure that justice is served. This branch is responsible for upholding the Constitution and ensuring that laws are applied fairly and consistently.Rate this question:
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- 13.
Which branch of US government has the power to raise an army and navy?
- A.
Legislative
- B.
Executive
- C.
Judicial
Correct Answer
A. LegislativeExplanation
The branch of US government that has the power to raise an army and navy is the Legislative branch. This branch, also known as Congress, is responsible for making laws and has the authority to declare war, which includes the power to raise and maintain military forces. The Executive branch, headed by the President, is responsible for commanding and leading the armed forces, while the Judicial branch interprets laws and resolves legal disputes.Rate this question:
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- 14.
Which branch of US government nominates cabinet members?
- A.
Legislative
- B.
Executive
- C.
Judicial
Correct Answer
B. ExecutiveExplanation
The executive branch of the US government is responsible for nominating cabinet members. This branch, headed by the President, is responsible for enforcing and implementing laws. Cabinet members are appointed by the President and are responsible for advising and assisting the President in making important decisions and managing various government departments.Rate this question:
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- 15.
Which branch of US government approves presidential cabinet nominations?
- A.
Legislative
- B.
Executive
- C.
Judicial
Correct Answer
A. LegislativeExplanation
The legislative branch of the US government approves presidential cabinet nominations. This branch, consisting of the Senate and the House of Representatives, has the authority to review and confirm or reject the president's nominees for cabinet positions. This system of checks and balances ensures that the president's choices for key positions in the executive branch are subject to scrutiny and approval by the representatives of the people.Rate this question:
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- 16.
Which branch of government has the ability to pardon people that violate federal laws?
- A.
Legislative
- B.
Executive
- C.
Judicial
Correct Answer
B. ExecutiveExplanation
The executive branch of government has the ability to pardon people that violate federal laws. This power is vested in the President of the United States. The President can grant pardons, which are official acts of forgiveness for a crime, and can also commute sentences, which reduce the severity of a punishment. This power is granted to the executive branch to ensure that there is a system of checks and balances in place, allowing for the possibility of mercy or forgiveness in certain cases.Rate this question:
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- 17.
In which branch of US government is Congress?
- A.
Legislative
- B.
Executive
- C.
Judicial
Correct Answer
A. LegislativeExplanation
Congress is in the legislative branch of the US government. The legislative branch is responsible for making laws, and Congress is the main body within this branch. It consists of two houses, the Senate and the House of Representatives, and is responsible for proposing, debating, and passing laws. The executive branch is responsible for enforcing laws, while the judicial branch is responsible for interpreting laws. Therefore, the correct answer is legislative.Rate this question:
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- 18.
In which branch of US government is the President?
- A.
Legislative
- B.
Executive
- C.
Judicial
Correct Answer
B. ExecutiveExplanation
The President is part of the Executive branch of the US government. This branch is responsible for enforcing laws and carrying out the day-to-day operations of the government. The President, as the head of the Executive branch, has the power to make executive orders, appoint officials, and serve as the Commander-in-Chief of the military.Rate this question:
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- 19.
In which branch of US government is the Supreme Court?
- A.
Legislative
- B.
Executive
- C.
Judicial
Correct Answer
C. JudicialExplanation
The Supreme Court is part of the judicial branch of the US government. This branch is responsible for interpreting laws and ensuring that they are applied fairly. The Supreme Court is the highest court in the country and has the final authority on legal matters. Its role is to review cases and make decisions that have a significant impact on the interpretation of the law and the rights of individuals.Rate this question:
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- 20.
In which branch of US government is the Senate?
- A.
Legislative
- B.
Executive
- C.
Judicial
Correct Answer
A. LegislativeExplanation
The Senate is a part of the Legislative branch of the US government. It is one of the two chambers of Congress, along with the House of Representatives. The Legislative branch is responsible for making laws and consists of the Senate and the House of Representatives. The Senate is made up of senators who are elected by the people and each state is represented by two senators. They play a crucial role in the lawmaking process, including the confirmation of presidential appointments and ratifying treaties.Rate this question:
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- 21.
In which branch of US government is the House of Representatives?
- A.
Legislative
- B.
Executive
- C.
Judicial
Correct Answer
A. LegislativeExplanation
The House of Representatives is part of the Legislative branch of the US government. This branch is responsible for making laws and is composed of two houses: the Senate and the House of Representatives. The House of Representatives represents the people and is made up of elected officials who serve two-year terms. They play a vital role in the lawmaking process by proposing, debating, and voting on bills.Rate this question:
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- 22.
Which branch of US government can declare war?
- A.
Legislative
- B.
Executive
- C.
Judicial
Correct Answer
A. LegislativeExplanation
The legislative branch of the US government can declare war. This is because the power to declare war is granted to Congress, which is a part of the legislative branch. The Constitution of the United States gives Congress the authority to make decisions regarding war and military actions. The executive branch, which includes the President, has the power to initiate military actions, but the actual declaration of war lies within the jurisdiction of the legislative branch. The judicial branch, on the other hand, is responsible for interpreting laws and resolving legal disputes, and does not have the authority to declare war.Rate this question:
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- 23.
Which branch of US government can declare treaties unconstitutional?
- A.
Legislative
- B.
Executive
- C.
Judicial
Correct Answer
C. JudicialExplanation
The branch of the US government that can declare treaties unconstitutional is the Judicial branch. This branch is responsible for interpreting and applying the law, including the Constitution. The power to declare treaties unconstitutional is derived from the principle of judicial review, which allows the courts to review the constitutionality of laws and government actions. By declaring a treaty unconstitutional, the Judicial branch can effectively nullify it and prevent its enforcement. This ensures that treaties comply with the Constitution and protects the rights and powers of the other branches of government.Rate this question:
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- 24.
Which branch of US government has the power of Judicial Review?
- A.
Legislative
- B.
Executive
- C.
Judicial
Correct Answer
C. JudicialExplanation
The branch of the US government that has the power of Judicial Review is the Judicial branch. Judicial Review refers to the ability of the courts to review and interpret laws, and determine their constitutionality. This power allows the courts to declare laws or actions of the other branches of government as unconstitutional, ensuring that they adhere to the principles outlined in the Constitution.Rate this question:
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- 25.
Which branch of US government can print and coin money?
- A.
Legislative
- B.
Executive
- C.
Judicial
Correct Answer
A. LegislativeExplanation
The Legislative branch of the US government has the authority to print and coin money. This power is granted to Congress, which is part of the Legislative branch. The Constitution specifically grants Congress the power to "coin Money, regulate the Value thereof, and of foreign Coin, and fix the Standard of Weights and Measures." This means that Congress has the responsibility to oversee and control the nation's currency and monetary system. The Executive branch, which includes the President, does not have the power to print or coin money. The Judicial branch, on the other hand, is responsible for interpreting laws and resolving disputes, but it does not have the authority to print or coin money.Rate this question:
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- 26.
Which branch of US government can decide how tax money is spent?
- A.
Legislative
- B.
Executive
- C.
Judicial
Correct Answer
A. LegislativeExplanation
The legislative branch of the US government can decide how tax money is spent. This branch, consisting of Congress (the Senate and the House of Representatives), has the power to create and pass laws, including those related to taxation and government spending. Through the annual budget process, Congress determines the allocation of funds for various government programs and initiatives, allowing them to have control over how tax revenue is utilized. The executive branch, headed by the President, implements and enforces these laws, while the judicial branch interprets them.Rate this question:
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- 27.
Which branch of US government approves treaties?
- A.
Legislative
- B.
Executive
- C.
Judicial
Correct Answer
A. LegislativeExplanation
The legislative branch of the US government approves treaties. This branch, also known as Congress, is responsible for making laws and has the power to ratify treaties that are negotiated by the executive branch. The Constitution grants this authority to the legislative branch in order to ensure checks and balances within the government.Rate this question:
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- 28.
Which branch of US government has the power to veto bills?
- A.
Legislative
- B.
Executive
- C.
Judicial
Correct Answer
B. ExecutiveExplanation
The branch of the US government that has the power to veto bills is the Executive branch. The President, who is part of the Executive branch, has the authority to reject bills passed by the Legislative branch. This power allows the President to prevent a bill from becoming a law, unless the veto is overridden by a two-thirds majority in both the House of Representatives and the Senate. The veto power serves as a check and balance on the legislative process, giving the Executive branch the ability to influence and shape legislation.Rate this question:
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- 29.
Which branch of US government can override vetoes?
- A.
Legislative
- B.
Executive
- C.
Judicial
Correct Answer
A. LegislativeExplanation
The legislative branch of the US government can override vetoes. This branch consists of the Senate and the House of Representatives, collectively known as Congress. When the President vetoes a bill, Congress has the power to override the veto by obtaining a two-thirds majority vote in both chambers. This allows Congress to pass the bill into law despite the President's objections. The legislative branch plays a crucial role in the checks and balances system, ensuring that no single branch of government has absolute power.Rate this question:
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- 30.
Which branch of US government can call congress into special sessions?
- A.
Legislative
- B.
Executive
- C.
Judicial
Correct Answer
B. ExecutiveExplanation
The executive branch of the US government has the authority to call Congress into special sessions. This power is granted to the President of the United States, who can convene Congress outside of its regular schedule in order to address urgent matters or specific issues that require immediate attention. The President can use this power to initiate legislative action or to address emergencies that require the involvement of Congress.Rate this question:
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- 31.
Which branch of US government can nominate ambassadors?
- A.
Legislative
- B.
Executive
- C.
Judicial
Correct Answer
B. ExecutiveExplanation
The executive branch of the US government can nominate ambassadors. This branch is responsible for implementing and enforcing laws, and it includes the President, who has the power to nominate individuals for various positions, including ambassadors. Ambassadors represent the United States in foreign countries and play a crucial role in diplomacy and international relations.Rate this question:
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- 32.
Which branch of US government approves nominated ambassadors?
- A.
Legislative
- B.
Executive
- C.
Judicial
Correct Answer
A. LegislativeExplanation
The legislative branch of the US government approves nominated ambassadors. This branch is responsible for making and passing laws, and one of its powers is to approve or reject the appointments made by the executive branch, including the appointment of ambassadors. The legislative branch ensures a system of checks and balances by having the power to confirm or reject these appointments, ensuring that the executive branch does not have unchecked power in selecting ambassadors.Rate this question:
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- 33.
Which branch of US government can nominate federal judges?
- A.
Legislative
- B.
Executive
- C.
Judicial
Correct Answer
B. ExecutiveExplanation
The executive branch of the US government, headed by the President, has the power to nominate federal judges. This is one of the President's constitutional responsibilities outlined in Article II, Section 2 of the US Constitution. The President selects individuals for federal judicial positions and submits their nominations to the Senate for confirmation. This process ensures a checks-and-balances system between the executive and legislative branches, as the Senate has the power to approve or reject the President's nominations.Rate this question:
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- 34.
Which branch of US government can approve federal judge nominations?
- A.
Legislative
- B.
Executive
- C.
Judicial
Correct Answer
A. LegislativeExplanation
The legislative branch of the US government, which consists of the Senate, has the power to approve federal judge nominations. This is outlined in the Constitution's "Advice and Consent" clause, which requires the Senate to provide its consent before the President can appoint federal judges. This system of checks and balances ensures that the executive branch does not have complete control over the judiciary, and allows for a separation of powers within the government.Rate this question:
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- 35.
Which office has a 4-year term?
- A.
Senate
- B.
House of Representatives
- C.
President
- D.
Supreme Court
Correct Answer
C. PresidentExplanation
The office that has a 4-year term is the President. The President of the United States serves a term of 4 years before they can be re-elected for another term. This term length was established by the 22nd Amendment to the United States Constitution, which limits a President to serving a maximum of two terms in office. The Senate and House of Representatives do not have fixed terms, as Senators serve 6-year terms and Representatives serve 2-year terms. The Supreme Court Justices also do not have fixed terms, as they serve for life or until they choose to retire.Rate this question:
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- 36.
Which office has a six-year term?
- A.
Senate
- B.
House of Representatives
- C.
President
- D.
Supreme Court
Correct Answer
A. SenateExplanation
The Senate has a six-year term. This is because the Senate is one of the two chambers of the United States Congress, and senators serve for a longer period compared to members of the House of Representatives. The longer term of senators is intended to provide stability and continuity in the legislative process, allowing them to focus on long-term policy-making and representation of their respective states. The President, on the other hand, serves a four-year term, while Supreme Court justices have a lifetime tenure.Rate this question:
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- 37.
Which office has a two-year term?
- A.
Senate
- B.
House of Representatives
- C.
President
- D.
Supreme Court
Correct Answer
B. House of RepresentativesExplanation
The House of Representatives has a two-year term. This means that members of the House are elected every two years and serve for a period of two years before facing re-election. This shorter term is designed to ensure that representatives remain accountable to their constituents and that the House remains responsive to the changing needs and opinions of the American people. The Senate, on the other hand, has a six-year term, while the President serves a four-year term. The Supreme Court justices serve lifetime appointments.Rate this question:
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- 38.
Which office has a life-long term (on good behavior)?
- A.
Senate
- B.
House of Representatives
- C.
President
- D.
Supreme Court
Correct Answer
D. Supreme CourtExplanation
The Supreme Court has a life-long term on good behavior because the Justices are appointed for life and can only be removed through impeachment. This is to ensure their independence and protect them from political pressures. The lifetime appointment allows them to make decisions without fear of retaliation or influence from public opinion or political parties. This helps to maintain the integrity and impartiality of the Supreme Court as the highest judicial authority in the United States.Rate this question:
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- 39.
How many people are on the Supreme Court?
- A.
1
- B.
9
- C.
100
- D.
435
Correct Answer
B. 9Explanation
The Supreme Court consists of 9 people. This is the correct answer because the Supreme Court of the United States is made up of 9 justices, including one Chief Justice and eight Associate Justices. Each justice is appointed by the President and confirmed by the Senate. The number 9 has remained constant since 1869, with the goal of ensuring a diverse range of perspectives and preventing tie votes.Rate this question:
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- 40.
How many people are in the Senate?
- A.
1
- B.
9
- C.
100
- D.
435
Correct Answer
C. 100Explanation
The correct answer is 100 because the Senate is composed of 100 members, with each state having two senators. This is specified in the United States Constitution, which establishes the legislative branch of the federal government. The Senate plays a crucial role in the lawmaking process and serves as a check on the power of the House of Representatives.Rate this question:
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- 41.
How many people are in the House of Representatives?
- A.
1
- B.
9
- C.
100
- D.
435
Correct Answer
D. 435Explanation
The House of Representatives consists of 435 members. Each state is allocated a certain number of representatives based on its population, with the total number of representatives being fixed at 435. Therefore, the correct answer is 435.Rate this question:
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- 42.
Which office is limited to two terms maximum?
- A.
Senate
- B.
House of Representatives
- C.
President
- D.
Supreme Court
Correct Answer
C. PresidentExplanation
The correct answer is President. The President of the United States is limited to serving a maximum of two terms in office. This limitation was established by the 22nd Amendment to the Constitution, which was ratified in 1951. Prior to this amendment, there was no term limit for the President, and some Presidents served more than two terms. However, after the ratification of the 22nd Amendment, no President can serve more than two terms or a total of ten years in office. This term limit ensures that power is not concentrated in one individual for an extended period of time and allows for the peaceful transfer of power.Rate this question:
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Sep 18, 2023Quiz Edited by
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Apr 23, 2012Quiz Created by
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