1989 AP U.S. Govt. & Politics

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  • 1/54 Questions

    Which of the following principles protects a citizen from imprisonment without trial?

    • Representative government
    • Separation of powers
    • Due process
    • Checks and balances
    • Popular sovereignty
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About This Quiz

If you are in AP U. S. Government, this is a practice test for the AP exam, so study study.

1989 AP U.S. Govt. & Politics - Quiz

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  • 2. 

    A first-term member of the House of Representatives from North Dakota who wished to maximize opportunities for constituent service would be most likely to seek placement on which of the following committees?

    • Judiciary

    • Agriculture

    • Rules

    • Foreign Affairs

    • Science and Technology

    Correct Answer
    A. Agriculture
    Explanation
    A first-term member of the House of Representatives from North Dakota would be most likely to seek placement on the Agriculture committee. North Dakota is known for its strong agricultural industry, so by serving on this committee, the representative can directly address the needs and concerns of their constituents. This committee would provide ample opportunities to advocate for agricultural policies, secure funding for rural development, and address issues related to farming, livestock, and rural communities in North Dakota.

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  • 3. 

    In the last thirty years, the single most important variable in determining the outcome of an election for a members of the House of Representatives has been

    • Incumbency

    • Personal wealth

    • Previous political offices held in the district

    • Membership in the political party of the President

    • Positions on key social issues

    Correct Answer
    A. Incumbency
    Explanation
    In the last thirty years, incumbency has been the single most important variable in determining the outcome of an election for members of the House of Representatives. This means that the current officeholder has a significant advantage over their challengers, as they have already established name recognition, a track record, and a network of support within their district. Incumbents often have access to more resources and campaign funding, making it difficult for new candidates to compete. Therefore, incumbency has a strong influence on election outcomes in the House of Representatives.

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  • 4. 

    The power of the Rules Committee in the House of Representatives rests on its authority to

    • Choose the chairs of other standing committees and issue rules for the selection of subcommittee chairs

    • Initiate all spending legislation and hold budget hearings

    • Place a bill on the legislative calendar, limit time for debate, and determine the type of amendments allowed

    • Determine the procedures by which nominations by the President will be approved by the House

    • Choose the President if no candidate wins a majority in the electoral college

    Correct Answer
    A. Place a bill on the legislative calendar, limit time for debate, and determine the type of amendments allowed
    Explanation
    The power of the Rules Committee in the House of Representatives is centered around its authority to place a bill on the legislative calendar, limit the time for debate, and determine the type of amendments allowed. This means that the committee has the ability to control the flow and discussion of legislation in the House, ultimately influencing which bills are considered and how they are debated and amended. This power allows the Rules Committee to have a significant impact on the legislative process and the outcome of proposed laws.

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  • 5. 

    In Marbury v. Madison (1803), the Supreme Court assumed the power to

    • Decide whether internal congressional procedures are constitutional

    • Advise Congress on the constitutionality of a proposed law

    • Regulate slavery

    • Decide on the constitutionality of a law or an executive action

    • Approved executive agreements

    Correct Answer
    A. Decide on the constitutionality of a law or an executive action
    Explanation
    In Marbury v. Madison (1803), the Supreme Court established the principle of judicial review, which grants the Court the power to determine the constitutionality of laws and executive actions. This landmark case solidified the Court's authority to interpret the Constitution and declare laws or executive actions unconstitutional if they violate the Constitution's provisions. This power has been crucial in shaping the balance of power between the three branches of government and ensuring the adherence to the principles outlined in the Constitution.

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  • 6. 

    All of the following help to explain the president's difficulty in controlling cabinet-level agencies EXCEPT

    • Agencies often have political support from interest groups

    • Agency staff often have information and technical expertise that the President and presidential advisers lack

    • The President can only fire appointees before they have been confirmed by the Senate

    • Civil servants who remain in their jobs through changes of administration develop loyalties to their agencies

    • Congress is a competitor for influence over the bureaucracy

    Correct Answer
    A. The President can only fire appointees before they have been confirmed by the Senate
    Explanation
    The given answer is incorrect. It states that the President can only fire appointees before they have been confirmed by the Senate. However, this does not explain the President's difficulty in controlling cabinet-level agencies. The other options provided in the question, such as political support from interest groups, information and technical expertise of agency staff, development of loyalties by civil servants, and competition from Congress for influence over the bureaucracy, all contribute to the President's difficulty in controlling these agencies.

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  • 7. 

    The activities of the Federal Reserve Board have the most direct influence on

    • Bank interest rates

    • Government spending

    • Oil prices

    • Troop-strength levels of the armed services

    • Availability of scarce minerals

    Correct Answer
    A. Bank interest rates
    Explanation
    The Federal Reserve Board, as the central banking system of the United States, has the power to set and adjust interest rates. By controlling the supply of money and credit in the economy, the Federal Reserve can influence the cost of borrowing for banks, which in turn affects the interest rates they charge to consumers and businesses. Therefore, the activities of the Federal Reserve Board have the most direct influence on bank interest rates.

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  • 8. 

    Which of the following statements most accurately compares elections in the United States with those in most other Western democracies?

    • United States citizens have fewer opportunities to vote in elections

    • Political parties exert a stronger influence over voting in the United States

    • There are fewer obstacles to voting in the United States

    • There are more political parties in the United States

    • The voter turnout rate in the United States is usually lower

    Correct Answer
    A. The voter turnout rate in the United States is usually lower
    Explanation
    The voter turnout rate in the United States is usually lower compared to most other Western democracies. This can be attributed to various factors such as the absence of compulsory voting, strict voter registration requirements, and the perception that individual votes may not have a significant impact on the outcome of elections. Additionally, the United States has a more complex and decentralized electoral system, which can also contribute to lower voter turnout.

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  • 9. 

    Which of the following activities of American labor unions is recognized by law?

    • Engaging in strikes

    • Denying the public access to a business

    • Refusing a subpoena to appear before an investigative committee of Congress

    • Disobeying a court injunction to return to work

    • Requiring members to make political contributions

    Correct Answer
    A. Engaging in strikes
    Explanation
    Engaging in strikes is recognized by law as an activity of American labor unions. Labor unions have the legal right to organize strikes as a form of collective bargaining to negotiate for better working conditions, wages, and benefits. The right to strike is protected by the National Labor Relations Act (NLRA) and is considered an essential tool for workers to assert their rights and negotiate with employers. Strikes must follow certain legal requirements, such as providing notice to the employer and not engaging in violence or destruction of property.

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  • 10. 

    Which of the following best describes the relationship between socioeconomic status and participates in politics?

    • The lower one's socioeconomic statues, the more likely it is that one will run for public office

    • The higher one's socioeconomic status, the greater the probability of active involvement in the political process

    • Adults who are unemployed have a greater personal interest in policy and tend to participate more actively in politics than do employed adults

    • People in the lower middle class are the most likely to participate in politics

    • There is no relationship between socioeconomic status and political participation

    Correct Answer
    A. The higher one's socioeconomic status, the greater the probability of active involvement in the political process
    Explanation
    The answer suggests that there is a positive relationship between socioeconomic status and participation in politics. It implies that individuals with higher socioeconomic status are more likely to be actively involved in the political process. This could be because individuals with higher socioeconomic status may have more resources, such as education, wealth, and social connections, which can facilitate their participation in politics.

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  • 11. 

    Suppose that in 1980 "strong" Democrats who shared Ronald Reagan's views on taxation and Republican women who opposed their party's plank on the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA) both turned out to vote at unexpectedly low rates.These findings would provide evidence for which of the following hypotheses?

    • Anything that produces cross-pressure reduces turnout

    • Strong party identification promotes participation

    • "Rational" voters need a sense of civic duty to motivate them to vote

    • Those who express satisfaction with candidate choices are less likely to vote

    • Those who are party activists are not likely to vote

    Correct Answer
    A. Anything that produces cross-pressure reduces turnout
    Explanation
    This answer suggests that when individuals face conflicting political views or pressures, their likelihood of voting decreases. In this scenario, both "strong" Democrats who align with Reagan's views on taxation and Republican women who oppose their party's stance on the ERA are not turning out to vote at expected rates. This implies that when voters experience cross-pressure, where their beliefs or loyalties are divided, they are less motivated to participate in the electoral process.

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  • 12. 

    Which of the following were LEAST likely to have been part of the New Deal electoral coalitions?

    • Blue-collar workers

    • Racial minorities

    • Southerners

    • Northern business leaders

    • Farm laborers

    Correct Answer
    A. Farm laborers
    Explanation
    Farm laborers were least likely to have been part of the New Deal electoral coalitions because they were predominantly rural and often excluded from the benefits and protections provided by the New Deal policies. The New Deal primarily focused on urban areas and industrial workers, providing them with employment opportunities, labor protections, and social welfare programs. However, farm laborers faced unique challenges, such as low wages, lack of unionization, and limited access to government assistance. Consequently, they were less likely to have been mobilized and included in the New Deal electoral coalitions.

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  • 13. 

    The federal Constitution guarantees all of the following rights to a person arrested and charged with a serious crime EXCEPT the right to

    • Remain silent

    • Be represented by a lawyer

    • Negotiate a plea bargain

    • Demand a writ of habeas corpus

    • Receive and speedy and public trial

    Correct Answer
    A. Negotiate a plea bargain
    Explanation
    The federal Constitution guarantees several rights to a person arrested and charged with a serious crime. These include the right to remain silent, be represented by a lawyer, demand a writ of habeas corpus, and receive a speedy and public trial. However, it does not explicitly guarantee the right to negotiate a plea bargain. A plea bargain is a negotiation between the defendant and the prosecutor, and while it is a common practice in the criminal justice system, it is not a constitutional right.

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  • 14. 

    "The Constitution limits the sixe of the District of Columbia to _______." -State of Alabama literacy test, 1936The question above and the literacy test from which it came were most likely designed to

    • Determine the literacy of potential voters

    • Prevent Black people from exercising their right to vote

    • Assess the general population's understanding of the Constitution

    • Promote opposition to statehood for the District of Columbia

    • Stop people from moving to the District of Columbia

    Correct Answer
    A. Prevent Black people from exercising their right to vote
    Explanation
    The question and the literacy test were most likely designed to prevent Black people from exercising their right to vote. This is indicated by the fact that the question is related to the Constitution and the answer choices do not seem to be relevant to the purpose of a literacy test. Instead, the question appears to be a deliberate attempt to create a barrier for Black individuals to vote, as it focuses on a specific limitation that does not have any significant relevance to the voting process.

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  • 15. 

    "We are unanimously of opinion, that the law passed by the legislature of Maryland, imposing a tax on the Band of the United States, is unconstitutional and void....This is a tax on the operation of an instrument employed by the government of the Union to carry its powers to execution. Such a tax must be unconstitutional...." -excerpt from a United States Supreme Court decision.This decision of the Supreme Court upheld the principle that

    • The federal government and the state governments are equal

    • Congress has only those powers specifically enumerated in the Constitution

    • Congress has the power to make laws to carry out its constitutional duties

    • Taxation without representation is unconstitutional

    • The federal government alone may levy taxes

    Correct Answer
    A. Congress has the power to make laws to carry out its constitutional duties
    Explanation
    The given excerpt from a United States Supreme Court decision supports the principle that Congress has the power to make laws to carry out its constitutional duties. The decision states that the tax imposed by the state of Maryland on the Bank of the United States is unconstitutional because it is a tax on the operation of an instrument employed by the federal government to carry out its powers. This implies that Congress has the authority to create laws necessary for executing its constitutional responsibilities.

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  • 16. 

    "We are unanimously of opinion, that the law passed by the legislature of Maryland, imposing a tax on the Band of the United States, is unconstitutional and void....This is a tax on the operation of an instrument employed by the government of the Union to carry its powers to execution. Such a tax must be unconstitutional...." -excerpt from a United States Supreme Court decision.Which of the following resulted from this Supreme court decision?

    • The power of the national government was strengthened

    • The power of the Supreme Court was weakened

    • The owner of state governments to tax individual citizens was clearly limited

    • Congress was given the power to coin money

    • Congress alone was given the power to charter banks

    Correct Answer
    A. The power of the national government was strengthened
    Explanation
    The Supreme Court decision stated that a tax imposed by the state of Maryland on the Bank of the United States was unconstitutional. This decision strengthened the power of the national government because it established that state laws that interfered with the operations of the federal government could be deemed unconstitutional and void. This decision affirmed the supremacy of the national government over state governments in certain matters, thereby strengthening its power.

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  • 17. 

    The details of legislation are usually worked out in which of the following settings?

    • A party causus

    • The majority leader's office

    • The floor of the House

    • Legislative hearings

    • A subcommittee

    Correct Answer
    A. A subcommittee
    Explanation
    Legislation details are typically worked out in a subcommittee. A subcommittee is a smaller group within a larger legislative body that focuses on specific issues or topics. Subcommittee members have expertise in the relevant area and can thoroughly examine and discuss the details of proposed legislation. They hold hearings, gather evidence, and make recommendations before presenting the legislation to the larger committee or the full legislative body for further consideration. This smaller setting allows for more in-depth discussions and analysis, ensuring that the legislation is well-crafted and addresses the specific concerns and needs related to the topic at hand.

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  • 18. 

    Which of the following is responsible for the preparation of executive spending proposals submitted to Congress?

    • Treasury Department

    • Council of Economic Advisors

    • Federal Trade Commission

    • Department of Commerce

    • Office of Management and Budget

    Correct Answer
    A. Office of Management and Budget
    Explanation
    The Office of Management and Budget is responsible for the preparation of executive spending proposals submitted to Congress. They work closely with the President and other executive agencies to develop the budget proposal, ensuring that it aligns with the administration's priorities and goals. The Office of Management and Budget also plays a key role in overseeing the implementation of the budget and evaluating the performance of federal programs.

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  • 19. 

    In United States v. Nixon the Supreme Court ruled that

    • The judicial branch should not intervene in political disputes between the President and Congress

    • Presidential power is not automatically extended during times of national emergency

    • Presidents must account to the Court for the way in which they implement policy

    • There is no constitutional guarantee of unqualified executive privilege

    • The President does not have the power of an item veto over congressional legislation

    Correct Answer
    A. There is no constitutional guarantee of unqualified executive privilege
    Explanation
    The Supreme Court ruled in United States v. Nixon that there is no constitutional guarantee of unqualified executive privilege. This means that the President does not have an absolute right to withhold information or documents from the judicial branch or other government entities. The court held that the need for evidence in a criminal trial outweighed any potential harm to executive privilege. This decision established that the President is not above the law and must be accountable to the Court.

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  • 20. 

    "Pork barrel" legislation helps the reelection chances of a member of Congress because such legislation

    • Gives the member of Congress national standing and coverage on national television news

    • Helps earn the member of congress a reputation for service to his or her district

    • Attracts campaign contributions from ideological political action committees (PAC's)

    • Prevents other candidates from claiming that the member of Congress is too liberal for his or her district

    • Requires the member of Congress to travel extensively

    Correct Answer
    A. Helps earn the member of congress a reputation for service to his or her district
    Explanation
    "Pork barrel" legislation refers to the practice of allocating government funds for specific projects or programs that primarily benefit a particular lawmaker's constituency. By directing funds towards their district, the member of Congress is able to demonstrate their commitment to serving their constituents and addressing their needs. This helps them build a reputation for being responsive and effective in representing their district, which in turn increases their chances of being reelected.

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  • 21. 

    Which of the following statements reflects a pluralist theory of American politics?

    • American politics is dominated by a small elite

    • Public policies emerge from cooperation among elites in business, labor, and governemtn

    • Public policies emerge from compromises reached among competing groups

    • American politics is dominated by cities at the expense of rural areas

    • The American political arena is made up of isolated individuals who have few group affiliations outside the family

    Correct Answer
    A. Public policies emerge from compromises reached among competing groups
    Explanation
    Public policies emerge from compromises reached among competing groups reflects a pluralist theory of American politics. Pluralism suggests that power is distributed among various groups in society, and decisions are made through negotiations and compromises among these groups. This view acknowledges the existence of multiple competing interests and emphasizes the importance of inclusivity and representation in shaping public policies.

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  • 22. 

    All of the following are formal or informal sources of presidential power EXCEPT

    • Presidential authority to raise revenue

    • Presidential access to the media

    • Precedents set during previous sdministrations

    • Public support

    • The Constitution

    Correct Answer
    A. Presidential authority to raise revenue
    Explanation
    Presidential authority to raise revenue is not a formal or informal source of presidential power. The Constitution grants the power to raise revenue to Congress, not the President. The President's role in the budget process is to propose a budget to Congress, but the actual authority to raise revenue lies with the legislative branch. Therefore, this option is not a valid source of presidential power.

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  • 23. 

    An advantage that bureaucrats in federal government have over the President in the policymaking process is that bureaucrats

    • Control the budgetary process

    • Have an independence from the President that is guaranteed by the consititution

    • Find it easier to marshall public support that does the President

    • Usually have a continuity of service in the executive branch that the President lacks

    • Have better access to the media than does the President

    Correct Answer
    A. Usually have a continuity of service in the executive branch that the President lacks
    Explanation
    Bureaucrats usually have a continuity of service in the executive branch that the President lacks. This means that bureaucrats have the advantage of long-term experience and knowledge in the policymaking process. They have a deep understanding of the inner workings of the government and can provide valuable insights and expertise to shape policies effectively. In contrast, the President's term is limited, and they may not have the same level of familiarity with the intricacies of the bureaucracy. Therefore, bureaucrats can have a greater influence and impact on the policymaking process due to their continuity of service.

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  • 24. 

    Which of the following is the best predictor of the Department of Education's annual budget?

    • The preferences of the Chair of the Senate Finance Committee

    • The budget recommendations of the National Education Association

    • The rate of increase of teachers' salaries

    • The number of children entering kindergarten

    • The size of the previous year's budget

    Correct Answer
    A. The size of the previous year's budget
    Explanation
    The best predictor of the Department of Education's annual budget is the size of the previous year's budget. This is because budget allocations are typically based on the previous year's budget and adjustments are made based on changes in priorities, needs, and available resources. The size of the previous year's budget serves as a baseline for determining the funding for the following year.

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  • 25. 

    Which of the following groups would be LEAST likely to maintain a national lobbying organization in Washington D.C.?

    • Environmentalists

    • Public housing tenants

    • Nurses

    • Automobile manufactures

    • Automobile assembly-line workers

    Correct Answer
    A. Public housing tenants
    Explanation
    Public housing tenants would be least likely to maintain a national lobbying organization in Washington D.C. because they typically do not have the financial resources or political influence to support such an organization. Unlike environmentalists, nurses, automobile manufacturers, and automobile assembly-line workers, public housing tenants are not a powerful or well-organized group with significant lobbying capabilities. They are more likely to rely on local advocacy groups or government agencies to address their concerns and advocate for their needs at the national level.

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  • 26. 

    Which of the following would result from the direct election of presidential candidates?

    • A national primary would be established

    • Party nominating conventions would be abolished

    • Each vote would count equally in determining which candidate won the election

    • The electoral college would become more influential in the electoral process

    • Third-party candidates would have less chance of winning the election

    Correct Answer
    A. Each vote would count equally in determining which candidate won the election
    Explanation
    If presidential candidates were directly elected, each vote would count equally in determining which candidate won the election. This means that the popular vote would directly determine the outcome of the election, without the need for an intermediate body like the electoral college. In the current system, the electoral college can sometimes result in a candidate winning the presidency despite not winning the popular vote. Direct election would ensure that every vote carries the same weight and that the candidate with the most votes would be declared the winner.

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  • 27. 

    Since 1960 the presidential election process has been affected by an increase in all of the following EXCEPT the

    • Proportion of independents in the electorate

    • Influence of political consultants

    • Number of primaries

    • Turnout of voters

    • Role of television

    Correct Answer
    A. Turnout of voters
    Explanation
    The explanation for the given correct answer is that the increase in all of the other factors - proportion of independents in the electorate, influence of political consultants, number of primaries, and role of television - has affected the presidential election process since 1960. However, the turnout of voters has not seen a significant increase or impact on the election process during this time period.

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  • 28. 

    Between 1964 and 1984, which of the following would have been most likely to vote for the Democratic presidential candidate?

    • A Cuban-American business executive from Miami

    • A Black teacher from Los Angeles

    • A White doctor from Atlanta

    • A Polish-American truck driver from Phoenix

    • A Methodist farmer from Iowa

    Correct Answer
    A. A Black teacher from Los Angeles
    Explanation
    During the time period specified (1964-1984), the Democratic party had a strong appeal to minority groups, particularly African Americans. This was due to the party's support for civil rights legislation and their efforts to address racial inequality. Therefore, a Black teacher from Los Angeles would have been most likely to vote for the Democratic presidential candidate during this period.

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  • 29. 

    "Voting is partly a matter of habit: the more frequently a person has voted in the past, the most likely she or he is to vote in the current election"All of the following support the observation above EXCEPT

    • Immediately after the Twenty-Sixth Amendment in 1917 gave 18-to-21 year olds the vote, the proportion of eligible voters who actually voted declined

    • Immediately after the Nineteenth Amendment in 1920 gave women the vote, the proportion of eligible voters who actually voted declined

    • Immediately after the passage of the Voting Rights Act of 1965, the participation rate of Blake voters in the South was lower than that of White voters in the South

    • Unmarried persons over the age of 65 are less likely to vote than are married persons in that age group

    • Newly naturalized citizens may need special inducements to vote

    Correct Answer(s)
    A. Unmarried persons over the age of 65 are less likely to vote than are married persons in that age group
    A. Newly naturalized citizens may need special inducements to vote
    Explanation
    The given answer choices all provide evidence to support the observation that voting is partly a matter of habit, except for the statement that unmarried persons over the age of 65 are less likely to vote than married persons in that age group. This statement does not directly relate to the frequency of past voting behavior, but rather focuses on the marital status of individuals over 65. Therefore, it does not support the observation that past voting frequency influences current voting behavior. Similarly, the statement about newly naturalized citizens needing special inducements to vote also does not directly relate to past voting behavior.

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  • 30. 

    All of the following statements reflect positions the Supreme Court has taken with regard to the right of free speech EXCEPT

    • A restriction on the right of free speech should always be viewed with skepticism

    • There are no acceptable governmental restrictions of free speech

    • Government has an obligation to try to ensure citizens the right to be heard

    • The right to free speech is a fundamental natural right

    • The First Amendment protects free speech from incursions of both the federal and state governments

    Correct Answer
    A. There are no acceptable governmental restrictions of free speech
    Explanation
    The Supreme Court has taken positions that support the right of free speech, including the idea that restrictions on free speech should be viewed with skepticism, that the government has an obligation to ensure citizens' right to be heard, and that the First Amendment protects free speech from both federal and state governments. However, the Supreme Court has recognized that there are some acceptable governmental restrictions on free speech, such as obscenity, incitement to violence, and defamation.

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  • 31. 

    In the Constitution as originally ratified in 1788, the provisions regarding which of the following most closely approximate popular, majoritarian democracy?

    • Election of members of the House of Representatives

    • Election of members of the Senate

    • Election of the President

    • Ratification of treaties

    • Confirmation of presidential appointments

    Correct Answer
    A. Election of members of the House of Representatives
    Explanation
    The provisions regarding the election of members of the House of Representatives most closely approximate popular, majoritarian democracy because they are directly elected by the people. The House of Representatives is designed to represent the interests of the people and reflects the principle of "one person, one vote." In contrast, the election of members of the Senate was originally done by state legislatures, not directly by the people. The election of the President is done through the Electoral College system, which can result in a candidate winning the presidency without winning the popular vote. Ratification of treaties and confirmation of presidential appointments are not directly related to popular, majoritarian democracy.

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  • 32. 

    Most of the bills introduced in the House and the Senate are then

    • Passed by one chamber but not the other

    • Passed by both chambers but vetoed by the President

    • Referred to committee but never sent to the full Congress

    • Voted down during the amendment stage of the floor debate

    • Killed in the Rules Committee

    Correct Answer
    A. Referred to committee but never sent to the full Congress
    Explanation
    The question is asking about the fate of most bills introduced in the House and the Senate. The correct answer states that most bills are referred to committee but never sent to the full Congress. This means that the bills are assigned to a specific committee for further review and consideration, but they do not proceed to the full Congress for a vote. This is a common fate for bills as the committee process allows for a more detailed examination and evaluation of the bill before deciding whether it should move forward.

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  • 33. 

    Which of the following best defines the term "judicial activism"?

    • The demands on judges to hear large numbers of cases

    • The efforts to judges to lobby Congress for funds

    • The attempts by judges to influence election outcomes

    • The unwillingness of judges to remove themselves from cases in which they have a personal interest

    • The tendency of judges to interpret the Constitution according to their own views

    Correct Answer
    A. The tendency of judges to interpret the Constitution according to their own views
    Explanation
    Judicial activism refers to the tendency of judges to interpret the Constitution according to their own views. This means that judges may go beyond their traditional role of interpreting the law and instead make decisions based on their personal beliefs and values. This can result in the court making decisions that are seen as more progressive or liberal, as judges may use their own interpretations of the Constitution to shape public policy. Judicial activism is often contrasted with judicial restraint, which is the belief that judges should strictly interpret the law and defer to the other branches of government.

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  • 34. 

    A President may persuade recalcitrant members of Congress to vote for a particular bill by

    • Having members who oppose the bill transferred to unpopular committees

    • Denying campaign funds to members who oppose the bill

    • Threatening to deny renomination to members who oppose the bill

    • Threatening to item veto part of a different bill that enjoys bipartisan support in Congress

    • Making a direct appeal to the public through the mass media

    Correct Answer
    A. Making a direct appeal to the public through the mass media
    Explanation
    The President may persuade recalcitrant members of Congress to vote for a particular bill by making a direct appeal to the public through the mass media. This strategy involves the President using their platform and influence to communicate directly with the public, presenting their case for the bill and putting pressure on Congress members to align with public opinion. By appealing to the public, the President can create public support for the bill, which can in turn influence Congress members to vote in favor of it to avoid backlash from their constituents.

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  • 35. 

    In general, independent regulatory commissions are created primarily for the purpose of

    • Supporting and helping cabinet-level departments

    • Proposing policy alternatives during periods of crisis

    • Regulating the activities of other bureaucratic agencies to ensure that they act in a fair and objective manner

    • Regulating certain industries to protect the public interest

    • Increasing the President's patronage powers

    Correct Answer
    A. Regulating certain industries to protect the public interest
    Explanation
    Independent regulatory commissions are created primarily to regulate certain industries to protect the public interest. These commissions are designed to oversee and enforce regulations in specific industries, such as telecommunications, energy, or transportation, to ensure that businesses within these industries operate in a fair and responsible manner. By regulating these industries, the commissions aim to protect consumers, promote competition, and prevent monopolistic practices. This helps safeguard the public interest and ensures that the industries operate in a way that benefits society as a whole.

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  • 36. 

    The President's veto power is accurately described by which of the following statements? I. A President sometimes threatens to veto a bill that is under discussion in order to influence congressional decision-makingII. A President typically vetoes about a third of the bills passed by CongressIII. Congress is usually unable to override a President's veto

    • I only

    • III only

    • I and III only

    • II and III only

    • I, II, and III

    Correct Answer
    A. I and III only
    Explanation
    The explanation for the correct answer, "I and III only," is that statement I accurately describes the President's ability to influence congressional decision-making by threatening to veto a bill. Statement III is also accurate, as Congress is usually unable to override a President's veto. However, statement II is incorrect, as a President does not typically veto about a third of the bills passed by Congress.

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  • 37. 

    Which of the following has decreased in Congress over the past twenty years?

    • The chances of members' reelection

    • The influence of committee chairs

    • The power of subcommittees

    • The total number of congressional staff employees

    • The cost of congressional elections

    Correct Answer
    A. The influence of committee chairs
    Explanation
    The correct answer is the influence of committee chairs. Over the past twenty years, the influence of committee chairs in Congress has decreased. This can be attributed to a variety of factors, including changes in party dynamics, increased polarization, and reforms aimed at reducing the power of individual members. As committee chairs play a crucial role in shaping the legislative agenda and determining the fate of bills, their diminishing influence has had a significant impact on the functioning of Congress.

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  • 38. 

    Invocation of the War Powers Act of 1973 would be most important in determining which of the following?

    • The nature of the commitment of United States Marines to a peace-keeping role in Lebanon

    • The amount of financial aid to the Contras of Nicaragua

    • The timing of naval maneuvers off the coast of Libya

    • The appointment of the Joint Chiefs of Staff

    • The legality of extraditing foreign agents responsible for acts of terrorism against United States citizens abroad

    Correct Answer
    A. The nature of the commitment of United States Marines to a peace-keeping role in Lebanon
    Explanation
    The War Powers Act of 1973 would be most important in determining the nature of the commitment of United States Marines to a peace-keeping role in Lebanon because this act requires the President to consult and report to Congress before deploying armed forces in hostilities or situations where hostilities are imminent. It sets a time limit on the deployment of forces without congressional approval and provides a framework for congressional oversight. Therefore, the invocation of the War Powers Act would be crucial in determining the extent and duration of the Marines' involvement in Lebanon's peacekeeping mission.

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  • 39. 

    American political culture is characterized by strong popular support for all of the following EXCEPT

    • The rule of law

    • Limited government

    • Individual liberty

    • Equality of opportunity

    • Economic equality

    Correct Answer
    A. Economic equality
    Explanation
    American political culture is characterized by strong popular support for the rule of law, limited government, individual liberty, and equality of opportunity. However, economic equality is not typically emphasized or prioritized in American political culture. While there are debates and discussions about economic policies and wealth distribution, the overall emphasis is on individual initiative, free markets, and the ability for individuals to succeed based on their own efforts. Therefore, economic equality is not a central tenet of American political culture.

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  • 40. 

    All of the following are commonly used by interest groups to influence the political process EXCEPT

    • Lobbying

    • Contributing money to candidates

    • Nominating candidates

    • Filling lawsuits

    • Appealing to public opinion

    Correct Answer
    A. Nominating candidates
    Explanation
    Interest groups commonly use lobbying, contributing money to candidates, filling lawsuits, and appealing to public opinion as strategies to influence the political process. However, nominating candidates is not typically a method employed by interest groups. Nominating candidates is usually the role of political parties or individuals within the party. Interest groups may support or endorse candidates, but they do not typically have the authority to directly nominate candidates.

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  • 41. 

    "Such considerations apply with added force to children in grade and high schools. To separate them from others of similar age and qualifications solely because of their race generates a feeling of inferiority as to their status in the community that may affect their hearts and minds in a way unlikely ever to be undone.......We conclude that in the field of public education the doctrine of "separate but equal" has no place. Separate educational facilities are inherently inequal. Therefore, we hold that the plaintiffs....are, by reason of the segregation complained of, deprived of the equal protection of the laws guaranteed by the Fourteenth Amendment" -excerpt from a major Supreme Court decision.The doctrine of "separate but equal" referred to above had previously been upheld by which of the following Supreme Court decisions?

    • Dred Scott v. Sanford, 1857

    • Plessy v. Ferguson, 1896

    • Youngstown Sheet and Tube Company v. Sawyer, 1952

    • Engel v. Vitale, 1962

    • Swann v. Charlotte-Mecklenburg County Board of Education, 1971

    Correct Answer
    A. Plessy v. Ferguson, 1896
    Explanation
    The given excerpt mentions that the doctrine of "separate but equal" has no place in the field of public education and that separate educational facilities are inherently unequal. This suggests that the Supreme Court decision being referred to overruled the previous decision that upheld the "separate but equal" doctrine. Among the given options, Plessy v. Ferguson, 1896 is the only decision that upheld the "separate but equal" doctrine, making it the correct answer.

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  • 42. 

    "Such considerations apply with added force to children in grade and high schools. To separate them from others of similar age and qualifications solely because of their race generates a feeling of inferiority as to their status in the community that may affect their hearts and minds in a way unlikely ever to be undone... ....We conclude that in the field of public education the doctrine of "separate but equal" has no place. Separate educational facilities are inherently inequal. Therefore, we hold that the plaintiffs....are, by reason of the segregation complained of, deprived of the equal protection of the laws guaranteed by the Fourteenth Amendment" -excerpt from a major Supreme Court decision.The Supreme Court decision quoted above did which of the following?

    • Brought a rapid end to school segregation in the South

    • Prohibited segregation in hotels and restaurants

    • Required desegregation of teaching staff

    • Initially affected only schools where segregation was mandated by law

    • Affected segregation in the North rather than in the South

    Correct Answer
    A. Initially affected only schools where segregation was mandated by law
    Explanation
    The Supreme Court decision initially affected only schools where segregation was mandated by law. This can be inferred from the excerpt which mentions that the plaintiffs were deprived of equal protection of the laws guaranteed by the Fourteenth Amendment due to the segregation complained of. The decision specifically addresses the issue of segregation in public education and concludes that separate educational facilities are inherently unequal. Therefore, it can be understood that the decision focused on schools where segregation was required by law rather than addressing segregation in other establishments such as hotels and restaurants.

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  • 43. 

    Which of the following best defines the constitutional interpretation of federalism?

    • The federal government and the states each have separate and mutually exclusive roles and responsibilities; neither controls the other

    • The states have some powers reserved to them which they may exercise if the Supreme Court permits

    • The federal government and the states have separate but overlapping powers: where these powers conflict the federal government prevails

    • The states may only exercise those powers delegated to them by Congress

    • The federal government may exercise only those powers specifically enumerated in the Constitution

    Correct Answer
    A. The federal government and the states have separate but overlapping powers: where these powers conflict the federal government prevails
    Explanation
    The correct answer suggests that the federal government and the states have separate but overlapping powers. This means that both levels of government have their own responsibilities and authority, but there may be situations where their powers conflict. In such cases, the federal government prevails. This interpretation of federalism recognizes the balance of power between the federal government and the states, allowing for cooperation and coordination while also maintaining a level of supremacy for the federal government.

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  • 44. 

    All of the following issues were decided at the Constitutional Convention EXCEPT

    • Representation in the legislature

    • Voting qualifications of the electorate

    • Method of electing the President

    • Congressional power to override a presidential veto

    • Qualifications for members of the House and Senate

    Correct Answer
    A. Voting qualifications of the electorate
    Explanation
    At the Constitutional Convention, various issues were discussed and decided upon in order to establish the framework of the United States government. Representation in the legislature was a key issue that was addressed, resulting in the creation of the bicameral Congress with different representation for each state. The method of electing the President was also debated and settled upon, leading to the creation of the Electoral College system. The power of Congress to override a presidential veto was another important issue that was resolved. Additionally, qualifications for members of the House and Senate were established. However, voting qualifications of the electorate were not specifically addressed at the Constitutional Convention.

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  • 45. 

    The usefulness to the President of having cabinet members as political advisers is undermined by the fact that

    • The President has little latitude in choosing cabinet members

    • Cabinet members have no political support independent of the President

    • Cabinet members are usually drawn from Congress and retain loyalties to Congress

    • The loyalties of cabinet members are often divided between loyalty to the President and loyalty to their own executive departments

    • The cabinet operates as a collective unit and individual members have no access to the President

    Correct Answer
    A. The loyalties of cabinet members are often divided between loyalty to the President and loyalty to their own executive departments
    Explanation
    The correct answer is that the loyalties of cabinet members are often divided between loyalty to the President and loyalty to their own executive departments. This undermines the usefulness of having cabinet members as political advisers because their divided loyalties may prevent them from providing unbiased advice and recommendations to the President. They may prioritize the interests and agendas of their own departments over the overall goals and objectives of the President, leading to potential conflicts and inefficiencies in decision-making.

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  • 46. 

    Cabinet departments differ from independent regulatory agencies in which of the following ways?

    • The President can use an executive order to create a cabinet department but not to create an independent regulatory agency

    • The President can dismiss cabinet officers, but not commissioners of independent regulatory agencies

    • The President seeks appointees who reflect administration views in making cabinet appointments but not in making appointments to independent regulatory agencies

    • Through the appropriations process, Congress can exert control over the cabinet departments but not over independent regulatory agencies

    • The courts can overrule regulations issued by cabinet departments, but not those issued by independent regulatory agencies

    Correct Answer
    A. The President can dismiss cabinet officers, but not commissioners of independent regulatory agencies
    Explanation
    The President has the power to dismiss cabinet officers, but not commissioners of independent regulatory agencies. This means that the President has more control and influence over cabinet departments compared to independent regulatory agencies. The President can appoint and remove cabinet officers, allowing them to shape the direction and policies of the cabinet department. On the other hand, commissioners of independent regulatory agencies have more independence and are typically appointed for fixed terms, making them less susceptible to direct presidential control.

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  • 47. 

    Which of the following techniques would a corporate lobbyist be likely to use to influence political outcomes in Congress?I. Organizing a demonstration in Washington just before a key House voteII. Ensuring that the corporation's political action committee (PAC) makes donations to the campaigns of members of key committeesIII. Meeting informally with Senate aids over lunch or cocktailsIV. Bringing influential constituents to Washington to discuss important policy matters with their representatives

    • II only

    • I and II only

    • III and IV only

    • I, III, and IV only

    • II, III, and IV only

    Correct Answer
    A. II, III, and IV only
    Explanation
    A corporate lobbyist would be likely to use techniques such as ensuring that the corporation's political action committee (PAC) makes donations to the campaigns of members of key committees, meeting informally with Senate aids over lunch or cocktails, and bringing influential constituents to Washington to discuss important policy matters with their representatives. These techniques are effective in influencing political outcomes as they involve building relationships, providing financial support, and leveraging the influence of constituents. Organizing a demonstration in Washington just before a key House vote may also be a possible technique, but it is not included in the correct answer.

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  • 48. 

    Congress has exerted the greatest influence on the operation of federal agency by doing which of the following?

    • Requiring the agency to participate in inter-agency task forces

    • Dismissing an agency head who disagrees with congressional priorities

    • Reviewing the annual budget appropriations for the agency

    • Passing "sunset" legislation that terminates programs after a certain period

    • Asking the Supreme Court for advisory opinions on agency regulations

    Correct Answer
    A. Reviewing the annual budget appropriations for the agency
    Explanation
    Congress has exerted the greatest influence on the operation of federal agencies by reviewing the annual budget appropriations for the agency. This is because Congress has the power of the purse, meaning they control the funding for government agencies. By reviewing and approving the agency's budget, Congress can allocate funds to support or restrict the agency's activities and programs. This gives Congress significant influence over the operation and priorities of federal agencies.

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  • 49. 

    Which of the following best describes the relationship between the Supreme Court and public opinion?

    • The Court assesses pubic opinion on a controversial issue and then tries to follow it

    • Court prestige is so hight that its decisions become public consensus

    • The existence of a public consensus on an issue limits the extent to which the Court will render decisions contrary to the consensus

    • Public opinion has no bearing on the effective implementation of the Court's decisions

    • There is no relationship between public opinion and the Court's decisions

    Correct Answer
    A. The existence of a public consensus on an issue limits the extent to which the Court will render decisions contrary to the consensus
    Explanation
    The correct answer suggests that when there is a public consensus on an issue, the Supreme Court is limited in its ability to make decisions that go against that consensus. This implies that public opinion does have an impact on the Court's decision-making process, as they are more likely to align their decisions with the prevailing public sentiment. However, it does not imply that the Court simply follows public opinion without any independent assessment or consideration.

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Quiz Review Timeline (Updated): Mar 22, 2023 +

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  • Current Version
  • Mar 22, 2023
    Quiz Edited by
    ProProfs Editorial Team
  • Apr 21, 2009
    Quiz Created by
    Ravin.netty

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