U. S. Government. Covers Chapters 5-9
Unit 2 practice test for U. S. Government. Covers Chapters 5-9
Questions and Answers
- 1.
The definition of politics is
- A.
The debate between interest groups
- B.
The process of making public policy
- C.
The media's interpretation of public opinion
- D.
Arguments over party platforms
Correct Answer
B. The process of making public policyExplanation
The correct answer is "the process of making public policy." This definition accurately describes politics as the process through which decisions are made and actions are taken to address societal issues and create public policy. It encompasses the various stages involved in policy formulation, implementation, and evaluation, including debates, negotiations, and decision-making among different stakeholders. This definition highlights the central role of politics in shaping the rules, laws, and regulations that govern a society and influence people's lives.Rate this question:
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- 2.
What is generally considered to be the most important function of political parties?
- A.
Spoiler effect
- B.
Raising money
- C.
Nominating candidates
- D.
Setting the public agenda
Correct Answer
C. Nominating candidatesExplanation
Political parties are generally considered to have the most important function of nominating candidates. This is because political parties play a crucial role in selecting and endorsing candidates for various political positions, such as presidential, gubernatorial, or congressional elections. Nominating candidates allows political parties to shape and influence the political landscape by putting forward individuals who align with their party's values and policies. This function also helps parties to consolidate their support base and present a unified front to voters. Additionally, the nomination process allows parties to vet potential candidates, ensuring that they meet certain qualifications and are suitable for public office.Rate this question:
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- 3.
Suffrage means
- A.
The right to vote
- B.
The right to abstain from voting
- C.
The work a group must do in order to be allowed to vote
- D.
People who cannot vote
Correct Answer
A. The right to voteExplanation
Suffrage refers to the right to vote. It is the legal and political term used to describe the privilege and entitlement of individuals to participate in the democratic process by casting their vote in elections or referendums. Suffrage is a fundamental aspect of democracy, ensuring that citizens have a say in the governance and decision-making processes of their country. It grants individuals the power to elect representatives and influence the policies and laws that shape their society.Rate this question:
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- 4.
Minor parties are important in politics because
- A.
They take large amounts of money from the major parties
- B.
They can persuade candidates to switch parties
- C.
They often introduce new or revolutionary ideas
- D.
They often win elections making the major parties re-think their platforms
Correct Answer
C. They often introduce new or revolutionary ideasExplanation
Minor parties are important in politics because they often introduce new or revolutionary ideas. While major parties may focus on maintaining the status quo, minor parties can bring fresh perspectives and innovative solutions to the table. Their ideas can challenge the existing political system and push for much-needed change. By introducing new or revolutionary ideas, minor parties can influence public discourse and force major parties to reconsider their own platforms and policies. This dynamic helps to keep the political landscape diverse and responsive to the evolving needs and aspirations of the population.Rate this question:
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- 5.
The Civil Rights Acts of 1957, 1960, and 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965 aimed to
- A.
Enforce the 15th amendment
- B.
Make it more difficult for African-Americans to register to vote
- C.
Give women the right to vote
- D.
Create a new political system
Correct Answer
A. Enforce the 15th amendmentExplanation
The Civil Rights Acts of 1957, 1960, and 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965 aimed to enforce the 15th amendment. The 15th amendment, ratified in 1870, granted African-American men the right to vote. However, many states had implemented discriminatory practices, such as literacy tests and poll taxes, to prevent African-Americans from exercising their right to vote. The Civil Rights Acts and the Voting Rights Act were enacted to combat these discriminatory practices and ensure that African-Americans were able to fully exercise their right to vote as guaranteed by the 15th amendment.Rate this question:
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- 6.
Which of the following where used to keep African-Americans from voting before the late 1950's ?
- A.
Violence, threats, literacy test, poll taxes
- B.
Violence, threats, federal laws
- C.
Jim Crow laws, state laws, national guard
- D.
Threats, the U.S. Constitution, State laws
Correct Answer
A. Violence, threats, literacy test, poll taxesExplanation
Before the late 1950's, African-Americans were kept from voting through various means. Violence and threats were used to intimidate and discourage them from exercising their right to vote. Additionally, literacy tests were implemented to prevent African-Americans, who were often denied quality education, from being able to vote. Poll taxes were also imposed, requiring individuals to pay a fee in order to vote, which disproportionately affected African-Americans who were often economically disadvantaged. These discriminatory practices were used to suppress the African-American vote and maintain white supremacy in the South.Rate this question:
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- 7.
Who determines voter qualifications?
- A.
The U.S. Constitution
- B.
States with some limits set by the U.S. Constitution
- C.
State law
- D.
Federal law
Correct Answer
B. States with some limits set by the U.S. ConstitutionExplanation
The U.S. Constitution grants the states the authority to determine voter qualifications. However, there are certain limits set by the U.S. Constitution that the states must adhere to when establishing these qualifications. Therefore, the states have the power to determine voter qualifications, but they must do so within the confines of the U.S. Constitution.Rate this question:
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- 8.
Every state in the U.S uses the following to determine voter qualification
- A.
Age, education, religion
- B.
Age, citizenship, registration
- C.
Age, citizenship, residency
- D.
Age citizenship, religion
Correct Answer
C. Age, citizenship, residencyExplanation
Every state in the U.S uses age, citizenship, and residency to determine voter qualification. Age is a common requirement as individuals must reach a certain age before they are eligible to vote. Citizenship is also necessary as only U.S. citizens have the right to vote in federal elections. Residency is another important factor as individuals must establish a certain period of residency in a particular state or district before they can vote in local elections. Education and religion are not used as criteria for determining voter qualification in any state.Rate this question:
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- 9.
Which group is disenfranchised even if they meet their states basic requirements for voting?
- A.
People who are illiterate
- B.
People who cannot speak
- C.
People who have been declared legally incompetent
- D.
People who can't name the candidates for the office for which they are voting
Correct Answer
C. People who have been declared legally incompetentExplanation
People who have been declared legally incompetent are disenfranchised even if they meet their state's basic requirements for voting. Legal incompetence refers to individuals who have been deemed by a court to lack the mental capacity to make decisions, including voting. This could be due to mental illness, cognitive impairment, or other factors that affect their ability to understand the voting process and make informed choices. As a result, they are unable to exercise their right to vote, despite meeting other voting requirements.Rate this question:
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- 10.
Three factors that generally increase the chances of a person voting are
- A.
Elderly, live in a rural area, spouse still living
- B.
Community involvement, over 35, urban area residency
- C.
Young, white, female
- D.
Feeling a high degree political efficacy, urban resident, low income
Correct Answer
B. Community involvement, over 35, urban area residencyExplanation
The factors that generally increase the chances of a person voting are community involvement, being over 35 years old, and residing in an urban area. These factors suggest that individuals who are actively engaged in their community, are older, and live in urban areas are more likely to participate in the voting process. This could be due to a higher level of awareness and interest in political issues, as well as easier access to voting locations and resources in urban areas.Rate this question:
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- 11.
Three factors that generally decrease the chances of a person voting are
- A.
Minority ethnic identification, community involvement, distrust in politics
- B.
Rural residency, low income, feeling a high degree of political efficacy
- C.
Minority identification, limited education, low income
- D.
Urban residency , female, professional occupation
Correct Answer
C. Minority identification, limited education, low incomeExplanation
The answer is minority identification, limited education, low income. These factors generally decrease the chances of a person voting because individuals who identify as a minority may face systemic barriers and discrimination that can discourage their participation in the political process. Limited education can result in a lack of awareness about the importance of voting and how to navigate the voting process. Low income can limit access to resources such as transportation or time off work, making it difficult for individuals to vote. Overall, these factors create barriers that reduce the likelihood of voting.Rate this question:
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- 12.
What is a feeling of political efficacy
- A.
Knowledge that you are part of politics
- B.
Understanding the political system
- C.
The belief that voting is patriotic
- D.
A feeling that you have the ability to make a difference in the political system
Correct Answer
D. A feeling that you have the ability to make a difference in the political systemExplanation
Political efficacy refers to the belief and feeling that one has the ability to make a difference in the political system. It is a sense of empowerment and confidence in one's capacity to have an impact on political outcomes. This feeling is important for individuals to actively participate in politics, engage in civic activities, and exercise their democratic rights, such as voting and advocating for change. It signifies a sense of agency and the belief that one's actions can contribute to shaping the political landscape.Rate this question:
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- 13.
In 1800 you had to be what in order to vote in the U.S.
- A.
White, male, have a grandfather that went to the constitutional convention, be over 24
- B.
White, male, property owner, christian
- C.
White, male, have children, pay taxes
- D.
White, male, property owner
Correct Answer
B. White, male, property owner, christianExplanation
In 1800, the requirements to vote in the U.S. were being white, male, a property owner, and a Christian. These qualifications were put in place to restrict voting rights to a specific group of individuals who were considered to be the most privileged and influential in society at that time. By requiring property ownership and religious affiliation, the government aimed to ensure that only those who had a stake in the country and shared the dominant religious beliefs were able to participate in the political process.Rate this question:
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- 14.
In 1810 what voting restriction was removed?
- A.
Religious tests
- B.
Race
- C.
Property ownership
- D.
Gender
Correct Answer
A. Religious testsExplanation
In 1810, the voting restriction that was removed was religious tests. This means that individuals were no longer required to pass a religious test in order to be eligible to vote. This change allowed for a more inclusive and democratic voting system, as it eliminated a barrier based on religious beliefs.Rate this question:
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- 15.
In 1920, with passage of the 19th amendment who gained the right to vote?
- A.
African-Americans
- B.
Hispanics
- C.
Women
- D.
Immigrants from Ireland
Correct Answer
C. WomenExplanation
In 1920, the passage of the 19th amendment granted women the right to vote. This was a significant milestone in the history of women's rights and marked a major step towards gender equality in the United States. African-Americans, Hispanics, and immigrants from Ireland did not specifically gain the right to vote with the passage of the 19th amendment.Rate this question:
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- 16.
By 1850 what voting qualification had been removed?
- A.
Slave ownership
- B.
Property ownership
- C.
Gender
- D.
Religion
Correct Answer
B. Property ownershipExplanation
By 1850, the voting qualification of property ownership had been removed. This means that individuals no longer needed to own property in order to be eligible to vote. This change in the voting qualification was significant as it expanded the right to vote to a larger portion of the population, allowing more people to participate in the democratic process. It was a step towards increasing inclusivity and representation in the electoral system.Rate this question:
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- 17.
What amendment was passed in 1870?
- A.
14th amendment
- B.
13th amendment
- C.
15th amendment
- D.
19th amendment
Correct Answer
C. 15th amendmentExplanation
The 15th amendment was passed in 1870. This amendment granted African American men the right to vote, stating that the right to vote could not be denied based on race, color, or previous condition of servitude. This amendment was a significant step towards ensuring equal voting rights for all citizens, regardless of their race or ethnicity.Rate this question:
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- 18.
The 15th amendment to the U.S. Constitution bans which kind of voting discrimination
- A.
Socioeconomic
- B.
Racial
- C.
Gender
- D.
Religious
Correct Answer
B. RacialExplanation
The 15th amendment to the U.S. Constitution bans racial voting discrimination. This means that it prohibits any form of discrimination based on race or color when it comes to voting rights. This amendment was ratified in 1870 and aimed to ensure that African American men, who had been previously denied the right to vote, were granted equal voting rights. It was a significant step towards ending racial discrimination in the voting process and promoting equal representation for all citizens.Rate this question:
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- 19.
18 years old became the oldest age that states could set as the minimum voting age in what year with what amendment?
- A.
1971, 26th amendment
- B.
1961, 23rd amendment
- C.
1965, 21st amendment
- D.
1970, 25th amendment
Correct Answer
A. 1971, 26th amendmentExplanation
In 1971, the 26th amendment was passed, which set the minimum voting age at 18 years old. This amendment was necessary because before this, the voting age varied among states, with some states allowing 21-year-olds to vote. The 26th amendment was a response to the Vietnam War and the argument that if 18-year-olds were old enough to be drafted and fight in the war, they should also have the right to vote.Rate this question:
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- 20.
The two parts of the electoral process are
- A.
Self-announcement and primaries
- B.
Elections and petitions
- C.
Primaries and general elections
- D.
Elections and nominations
Correct Answer
D. Elections and nominationsExplanation
The correct answer is elections and nominations. The electoral process consists of two main parts: elections and nominations. Elections refer to the process of voting and selecting candidates for various positions, while nominations involve the selection and endorsement of candidates by political parties or individuals. These two components are crucial in determining the final candidates who will compete in the general elections.Rate this question:
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- 21.
Which of the following in not a valid nomination process?
- A.
Primary
- B.
Self assessment
- C.
Convention
- D.
Caucus
Correct Answer
B. Self assessmentExplanation
Self assessment is not a valid nomination process because it involves individuals evaluating their own qualifications and suitability for a position, rather than being nominated or selected by a group or organization. In a self assessment, the individual takes the initiative to put themselves forward as a candidate, which is not a typical nomination process used in political or organizational contexts.Rate this question:
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- 22.
A caucus is
- A.
A small select group
- B.
A large group of popularly selected delegates
- C.
A whole political party
- D.
A document showing support for a candidate
Correct Answer
A. A small select groupExplanation
A caucus is a small select group that typically consists of members from a specific political party or organization. They come together to discuss and make decisions on various political matters, such as selecting candidates for elections or determining party policies. The term "caucus" is often used to describe closed-door meetings where influential individuals gather to deliberate and strategize. It is different from a large group of popularly selected delegates, a whole political party, or a document showing support for a candidate, as it specifically refers to a small and exclusive gathering.Rate this question:
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- 23.
In the U.S. we believe that in order for democracy to continue elections must be
- A.
Free, without flaw, and easily understood
- B.
Free, fair, and accurate
- C.
Taxed, fair, accurate
- D.
Completely transparent and without secret ballots
Correct Answer
B. Free, fair, and accurateExplanation
The correct answer is "free, fair, and accurate." This answer aligns with the principles of democracy as it emphasizes the importance of elections being conducted in a manner that is free from coercion or manipulation, ensuring that all individuals have the opportunity to participate without any hindrance. Additionally, it highlights the need for elections to be fair, meaning that all candidates and parties are treated equally and have a level playing field. Lastly, accuracy is crucial to maintain the integrity of elections, ensuring that the results reflect the will of the people.Rate this question:
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- 24.
Which of the following is not eligible to give directly to a candidates campaign?
- A.
Wealthy people (fat cats)
- B.
Individuals who work for corporations
- C.
Special interest groups
- D.
Businesses and corporations
Correct Answer
D. Businesses and corporationsExplanation
Businesses and corporations are not eligible to give directly to a candidate's campaign. This is because campaign finance laws prohibit direct contributions from entities such as businesses and corporations. Instead, they can contribute to political action committees (PACs) or super PACs, which can then support the candidate indirectly through independent expenditures.Rate this question:
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- 25.
Corporations can spend as much as they like campaigning for or against a candidate or a policy
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
The statement is true because of the Supreme Court's ruling in the Citizens United case in 2010. The court decided that corporations have the same rights as individuals when it comes to political spending, and that includes the ability to spend unlimited amounts of money on campaigns for or against candidates or policies. This ruling has led to the rise of super PACs and increased corporate influence in elections.Rate this question:
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- 26.
FEC stand for
- A.
Federal Electoral Compensation
- B.
Federal Election Campaigns
- C.
Federal Election Commission
- D.
Federal Egalitarian Convention
Correct Answer
C. Federal Election CommissionExplanation
The correct answer is Federal Election Commission. The Federal Election Commission (FEC) is an independent regulatory agency in the United States that administers and enforces campaign finance laws. It was established in 1975 to regulate the campaign finance legislation in federal elections. The FEC is responsible for disclosing campaign finance information, enforcing contribution limits, and overseeing the public funding of presidential elections.Rate this question:
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- 27.
The FEC
- A.
Oversees the administration of federal election laws
- B.
Oversees all parts of elections
- C.
Oversees the collection of taxes
- D.
Makes sure interest groups don't break the law
Correct Answer
A. Oversees the administration of federal election lawsExplanation
The correct answer is "oversees the administration of federal election laws." The Federal Election Commission (FEC) is responsible for ensuring compliance with federal election laws. They oversee the administration of these laws, which includes monitoring campaign finance activities, enforcing contribution limits, and disclosing financial information. The FEC plays a crucial role in maintaining the integrity and transparency of the election process in the United States.Rate this question:
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- 28.
What is public opinion?
- A.
What everyone in the country thinks about an issue
- B.
Attitude held but not expressed by many
- C.
Attitudes held and expressed by a significant number of people
- D.
Attitudes held by many people in an interest group
Correct Answer
C. Attitudes held and expressed by a significant number of peopleExplanation
Public opinion refers to the attitudes that are held and expressed by a significant number of people. It represents the collective viewpoint of a large portion of the population on a particular issue or topic. Public opinion is formed through various factors such as personal experiences, media influence, social interactions, and cultural values. It plays a crucial role in shaping government policies, decision-making processes, and societal norms.Rate this question:
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- 29.
What is generally thought to be the most important factor in forming public opinion?
- A.
Family, income level
- B.
Education, family
- C.
Education, residency
- D.
Residency, income level
Correct Answer
B. Education, familyExplanation
Education and family are generally thought to be the most important factors in forming public opinion. Education plays a crucial role in shaping individuals' knowledge, critical thinking skills, and understanding of various issues, which in turn influences their opinions. Additionally, family plays a significant role in socializing individuals and transmitting values, beliefs, and attitudes, which can greatly impact their opinions. Therefore, the combination of education and family background is believed to be the key factors in shaping public opinion.Rate this question:
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- 30.
Public opinion always leads to public policy.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. FalseExplanation
Public opinion does not always lead to public policy. While public opinion can influence policy decisions, it is not the sole determining factor. Other factors such as political considerations, economic constraints, and legal considerations also play a role in shaping public policy. Additionally, public opinion can be diverse and fragmented, making it difficult to translate into a unified policy. Therefore, it is incorrect to say that public opinion always leads to public policy.Rate this question:
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- 31.
If someone with a reactionary point of view were to vote for a candidate from a major policial party he or she would be most likely to vote for a
- A.
Democrat
- B.
Republican
Correct Answer
B. RepublicanExplanation
If someone with a reactionary point of view were to vote for a candidate from a major political party, they would most likely vote for a Republican. This is because the Republican party generally aligns with conservative ideologies and policies, which often appeal to individuals with reactionary viewpoints. The party's stance on issues such as limited government intervention, traditional values, and strong national defense are often attractive to those with reactionary beliefs.Rate this question:
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- 32.
If someone with a radical point of view were to vote for a candidate from a major political party he or she would be most likely to vote for a
- A.
Democrat
- B.
Republican
Correct Answer
A. DemocratExplanation
A person with a radical point of view is likely to vote for a candidate who aligns with their extreme beliefs and ideologies. In the given options, the Democratic Party is generally associated with more progressive and liberal policies, making it more appealing to someone with radical views. The Republican Party, on the other hand, tends to be more conservative and traditional in their approach, which may not resonate as strongly with someone who holds radical viewpoints. Therefore, the person with a radical point of view would be most likely to vote for a Democrat candidate.Rate this question:
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- 33.
Both of the major political parties in the U.S. sit close to _________ on the political spectrum
- A.
Far ends
- B.
Center
- C.
Left
- D.
Right
Correct Answer
B. CenterExplanation
Both of the major political parties in the U.S. sit close to the center on the political spectrum. This means that they hold moderate positions and do not align strongly with either the left or right ends of the spectrum. The parties aim to appeal to a broad range of voters and typically adopt policies that are a mix of conservative and liberal ideas. This positioning allows them to attract a larger base of support and work towards finding common ground on various issues.Rate this question:
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- 34.
Mass media's influence on public opinion is limited because
- A.
It gives very little information
- B.
We tend to utilize those sources that we already agree with
- C.
The never provide any facts
- D.
People never see them as entertainment, only factual information sources
Correct Answer
B. We tend to utilize those sources that we already agree withExplanation
The correct answer is "we tend to utilize those sources that we already agree with." This is because when it comes to mass media's influence on public opinion, people often seek out and consume information from sources that align with their existing beliefs and opinions. This selective exposure bias limits the impact of mass media in shaping public opinion, as individuals tend to ignore or discount information that contradicts their preconceived notions.Rate this question:
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- 35.
Interest groups do not
- A.
Try to shape public policy
- B.
Focus on winning elections
- C.
Give specific information to the public
- D.
Use propaganda
Correct Answer
B. Focus on winning electionsExplanation
Interest groups are organizations that aim to influence public policy by advocating for specific issues or causes. While they may engage in political activities such as lobbying and campaign contributions, their primary goal is not to win elections. Instead, they focus on shaping public opinion, influencing policymakers, and advocating for their interests through various means.Rate this question:
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- 36.
Interest groups are different from political parties because they
- A.
Make nominations for candidates
- B.
Educate the public about their platform
- C.
Unite people from different areas
- D.
Have a narrow agenda
Correct Answer
D. Have a narrow agendaExplanation
Interest groups are different from political parties because they have a narrow agenda. Unlike political parties that have a broader range of policy positions and goals, interest groups focus on specific issues or causes. They advocate for their narrow agenda by lobbying, influencing public opinion, and pressuring policymakers. While political parties aim to appeal to a wide range of voters and win elections, interest groups concentrate on advancing their specific interests and policies, often representing a particular industry, profession, or social cause.Rate this question:
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- 37.
Lobbyists try to
- A.
Trade favors with congressmen
- B.
Influence policy in the favor of their organizations goals
- C.
Make sure congressmen are well liked by their constituents
- D.
Disrupt legislative session
Correct Answer
B. Influence policy in the favor of their organizations goalsExplanation
Lobbyists are individuals or groups who attempt to influence the decisions and policies of lawmakers in favor of their organizations' goals. They do this by using various tactics such as providing information, financial contributions, and networking to gain support for their cause. Lobbyists aim to shape legislation and regulations that align with the interests and objectives of the organizations they represent. Their goal is to persuade lawmakers to adopt policies that benefit their organization and its stakeholders.Rate this question:
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- 38.
Which of the following is not a technique used by lobbyists?
- A.
Rating congressmen
- B.
Sending information to congressmen
- C.
Testifying before legislative committees
- D.
Filibustering
Correct Answer
D. FilibusteringExplanation
Filibustering is not a technique used by lobbyists. It refers to the act of prolonging a debate or delaying a decision in a legislative assembly by making long speeches or other obstructive tactics. Lobbyists, on the other hand, use techniques such as rating congressmen, sending information to congressmen, and testifying before legislative committees to influence the decision-making process.Rate this question:
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