US Government Branches, Powers, Checks And Balances
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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 can propose amendments to the Constitution. This branch is responsible for making laws and includes the two houses of Congress: the Senate and the House of Representatives. The process of proposing amendments involves introducing a bill in Congress, which must be approved by a two-thirds majority in both houses before it can be sent to the states for ratification. This power to propose amendments allows the Legislative branch to play a crucial role in shaping and modifying the Constitution to address changing needs and circumstances.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 is responsible for proposing bills. This branch consists of the House of Representatives and the Senate, collectively known as Congress. It is their primary function to create and introduce new legislation, which can then be debated, amended, and voted on before becoming law. The executive branch, headed by the President, is responsible for enforcing laws, while the judicial branch interprets the laws. Therefore, the legislative branch has the authority to propose bills.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 the US government that can declare executive actions unconstitutional is the Judicial branch. This branch is responsible for interpreting the laws and the Constitution, and they have the power to review executive actions and determine if they violate the Constitution. The Judicial branch ensures that the actions taken by the Executive branch are in line with the principles and rights outlined in the Constitution, and they have the authority to declare them unconstitutional if necessary.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 in chief of the military is the President of the United States. As the head of the executive branch of government, the President has the authority and responsibility to make decisions regarding the military and its operations. This includes the power to deploy troops, make strategic decisions, and oversee military actions. The executive branch also includes other departments and agencies involved in national security and defense, such as the Department of Defense.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 Legislative branch of the US government can formally accuse Justices of crimes related to their duties. This is because the Legislative branch, which consists of the Senate and the House of Representatives, has the power of impeachment. Impeachment is the process by which government officials, including Justices, can be accused of wrongdoing and potentially removed from office. This power ensures a system of checks and balances within the government, allowing the Legislative branch to hold the Judicial branch accountable for any criminal actions.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 branch is responsible for making laws and has the authority to impeach and remove federal officials, including the President, Vice President, and other civil officers, for "high crimes and misdemeanors." The power of impeachment allows the legislative branch to hold the executive branch accountable for any wrongdoing or abuse of power. It is an important check and balance in the US government system.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 US government that can declare laws unconstitutional is the Judicial branch. This branch is responsible for interpreting the laws and ensuring their constitutionality. The power to declare laws unconstitutional is known as judicial review, and it allows the courts to strike down laws that violate the Constitution. This is a crucial function of the Judicial branch in maintaining the balance of power and upholding the principles of the US Constitution.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 is responsible for implementing and enforcing laws, and the President, as the head of the executive branch, has the authority to negotiate and sign treaties on behalf of the United States. Treaties are agreements made with foreign countries and they often cover a wide range of issues such as trade, defense, and human rights. The executive branch plays a crucial role in shaping US foreign policy through the negotiation and signing of treaties.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 is responsible for making laws and consists of the Senate and the House of Representatives. The power to ratify treaties is granted to the Senate specifically, as outlined in the Constitution. The President negotiates and signs treaties, but they require the approval of two-thirds of the Senate to be ratified and become binding. Therefore, the legislative branch plays a crucial role in the treaty approval process.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 correct answer is Legislative. The Legislative branch of the US government gets its power from Article One of the US Constitution. This branch is responsible for making laws and consists of the Senate and the House of Representatives. Article One outlines the powers and responsibilities of the Legislative branch, including the process of creating and passing legislation. The Executive branch, on the other hand, is responsible for enforcing laws, while the Judicial branch interprets 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 correct answer is Executive. Article Two of the US Constitution establishes the Executive branch of the US government. This branch is responsible for enforcing laws and is headed by the President of the United States. The President has the power to execute and administer laws, appoint officials, negotiate treaties, and serve as the commander-in-chief of the armed forces. The Executive branch plays a crucial role in the governance and administration of the country.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 US government that gets its power from Article Three of the US Constitution is the Judicial branch. Article Three establishes the Supreme Court and grants it the authority to interpret laws, resolve disputes, and ensure the constitutionality of legislation. This branch is responsible for upholding and interpreting the law, and it plays a crucial role in the checks and balances system of the United States government.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 legislative branch of the US government has the power to raise an army and navy. This branch, consisting of the Senate and the House of Representatives, is responsible for making laws and has the authority to allocate funds for defense purposes. The power to raise an army and navy falls under their jurisdiction as they have the ability to pass legislation related to national security and defense.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 nominates cabinet members. This branch is responsible for enforcing and administering laws, and the president, who is the head of the executive branch, has the authority to nominate individuals to serve as cabinet members. These nominations must be confirmed by the Senate, which is part of the legislative branch, before the individuals can assume their positions in the cabinet. The cabinet members play a crucial role in advising the president and implementing policies in various areas of government.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, also known as Congress, is responsible for making laws and has the power to confirm or reject the president's nominees for cabinet positions. The Senate, which is part of the legislative branch, holds confirmation hearings and votes on whether to approve the nominations. This system ensures a system of checks and balances, allowing Congress to have a say in the composition of the executive branch.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 granted to the President of the United States, who can grant pardons and reprieves for offenses against the United States, except in cases of impeachment. The executive branch is responsible for enforcing laws and ensuring the proper functioning of the government, and the power to pardon is one of the checks and balances that the executive branch holds.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 part of the legislative branch of the US government. The legislative branch is responsible for making laws and consists of two houses: the House of Representatives and the Senate. Congress, which is made up of both houses, is responsible for proposing, debating, and passing laws that affect the entire nation. The executive branch, on the other hand, is responsible for enforcing laws, while the judicial branch interprets laws. Therefore, Congress being part of the legislative branch is the correct answer.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 and administering laws. The President is the head of the Executive branch and is responsible for making important decisions, implementing policies, and overseeing the various departments and agencies of the government. The Executive branch also includes the Vice President and the Cabinet members who assist the President in carrying out their duties.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 and applying the law. The Supreme Court is the highest court in the country and has the final authority on legal matters. Its main function is to ensure that laws are constitutional and to settle disputes between lower courts. The Judicial branch plays a crucial role in maintaining the balance of power and upholding the principles of justice in the United States.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 part of the Legislative branch of the US government. The Legislative branch is responsible for making laws and consists of two houses, the Senate and the House of Representatives. The Senate is made up of elected representatives from each state, with each state having two Senators. They play a crucial role in the lawmaking process by proposing, debating, and voting on bills. The Executive branch, on the other hand, is responsible for enforcing laws, while the Judicial branch interprets laws and ensures their constitutionality.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 consists of two chambers, the House of Representatives and the Senate. The House of Representatives is made up of elected officials who represent the interests of the people in their respective districts. They play a crucial role in the lawmaking process by proposing, debating, and voting on legislation. The Executive branch, on the other hand, is responsible for enforcing laws, while the Judicial branch interprets laws.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, which consists of the Congress, can declare war. This power is granted to Congress by the Constitution in order to ensure that the decision to engage in war is made collectively and with careful consideration. The executive branch, led by the President, has the authority to wage war once it is declared by Congress, but the power to initiate war lies with the legislative branch. The judicial branch, on the other hand, is responsible for interpreting the laws and ensuring their constitutionality, but 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. This ensures that treaties adhere to the principles and provisions outlined in the Constitution, and if found unconstitutional, they can be invalidated by the courts.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 is the power of the courts to review and potentially invalidate laws or actions that are deemed unconstitutional. This power allows the courts to interpret the Constitution and ensure that the other branches of government are acting within the limits set by the Constitution. By having this power, the Judicial branch acts as a check on the Legislative and Executive branches, ensuring that they do not exceed their authority.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, consisting of the Congress, has the authority to print and coin money. This power is granted to them by the Constitution in order to regulate the country's currency and ensure its stability. The legislative branch is responsible for making laws and has the ability to control the nation's finances, including the production of currency. The executive branch, led by the President, is responsible for implementing and enforcing these laws, while the judicial branch interprets them.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, which consists of Congress (the Senate and the House of Representatives), has the power to decide how tax money is spent. This is because the Constitution grants Congress the authority to make laws, including laws related to taxation and government spending. Through the budgeting process, Congress determines the allocation of funds for various government programs, agencies, and initiatives, ultimately deciding how tax money is utilized for the benefit of the country.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, consists of the Senate and the House of Representatives. The Constitution grants the power to approve treaties exclusively to the Senate. The President, who represents the executive branch, negotiates and signs treaties, but they cannot take effect without the Senate's approval. The judicial branch, on the other hand, is responsible for interpreting laws and resolving disputes, but it does not have the authority to approve treaties.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 or veto 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 vote in both the House of Representatives and the Senate. The Executive branch's ability to veto bills serves as a check on the powers of the Legislative branch and helps maintain a system of checks and balances in the US government.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, also known as Congress, is responsible for making laws. If the President vetoes a bill passed by Congress, the legislative branch can override the veto by obtaining a two-thirds majority vote in both the House of Representatives and the Senate. This power allows Congress to have a check on the executive branch and ensure that laws are passed even if the President disagrees.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 power to call Congress into special sessions. This allows the President to convene Congress outside of its regular session in order to address urgent matters or emergencies. The President holds the authority to initiate these special sessions as a way to ensure that important issues are addressed promptly and efficiently.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, headed by the President of the United States, is responsible for carrying out and enforcing laws. Nominating ambassadors is one of the many powers and responsibilities of the executive branch.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, which consists of the Senate and the House of Representatives, has the power to confirm or reject the president's nominations for various positions, including ambassadors. This system of checks and balances ensures that the president's choices for ambassadors are subject to scrutiny and approval by the legislative branch before they can assume their roles.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 can nominate federal judges. This branch, headed by the President, has the authority to nominate individuals to fill vacancies in the federal judiciary. These nominations are then subject to confirmation by the Senate, which is part of the legislative branch. The executive branch plays a crucial role in the appointment of federal judges, ensuring a separation of powers and a system of checks and balances within the US government.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 and the House of Representatives, has the power to approve federal judge nominations. This is outlined in the US Constitution's "Advice and Consent" clause, which requires the President to nominate federal judges and for the Senate to confirm them. The Legislative branch acts as a check and balance on the Executive branch's power to appoint judges, ensuring that nominations are thoroughly reviewed and approved by elected representatives.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 being eligible for re-election. This term length was established by the Constitution to ensure a balance of power and allow for regular democratic elections. The Senate and House of Representatives have 6-year and 2-year terms respectively, while Supreme Court Justices serve lifetime appointments.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 stated in the United States Constitution, where it is mentioned that Senators serve for a term of six years. This longer term is intended to provide stability and continuity in the legislative branch of government, as Senators have more time to develop expertise and build relationships with their colleagues. The House of Representatives, on the other hand, has a two-year term, while the President serves for four years. The Supreme Court is a judicial branch and does not have a specified term length for its justices.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 because it is a part of the legislative branch of the United States government. Members of the House of Representatives are elected every two years to represent the people in their respective districts. This shorter term allows for more frequent elections and a closer connection between representatives and their constituents. The Senate, on the other hand, has a six-year term, while the President serves a four-year term. The Supreme Court does not have a term limit, as justices serve for life or until they choose to retire.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 judges are appointed for life and can only be removed through impeachment. This is to ensure their independence and protect them from political pressures. Unlike other offices such as the Senate, House of Representatives, and the President, which have fixed terms and are subject to regular elections, Supreme Court justices serve until they retire, resign, or are removed through the impeachment process. This allows them to make decisions based on the law and the Constitution without fear of losing their position due to political considerations.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, and they serve for life or until they choose to retire. The number 9 has remained constant since 1869, although it is not specified in the Constitution.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 Senate is composed of 100 members, with each state having two senators. This is stated in the United States Constitution, which outlines the structure and composition of the Senate. The purpose of having 100 senators is to ensure equal representation for each state, regardless of its population size. Therefore, the correct answer is 100.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. This number is determined by the Census that takes place every ten years. 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 President is limited to two terms maximum. This is stated in the 22nd Amendment of the United States Constitution, which was ratified in 1951. The amendment states that no person can be elected to the office of President more than twice, and no person who has held the office, or acted as President for more than two years of a term to which some other person was elected President, can be elected to the office more than once. This amendment was put in place to prevent any individual from holding too much power and to ensure a peaceful transfer of power.Rate this question:
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May 11, 2023Quiz Edited by
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Dec 02, 2009Quiz Created by
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