AP Government ChAPters 12 & 13
- 1.
How many senators are elected from each state?
- A.
One
- B.
Two
- C.
Four
- D.
It depends on the state's population
- E.
The same number as it has electors in the Electoral College
Correct Answer
B. TwoExplanation
Each state in the United States elects two senators. This is specified in the U.S. Constitution, which grants each state equal representation in the Senate regardless of its population. Therefore, regardless of the state's size or population, it will always have two senators.Rate this question:
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- 2.
The pork barrel and casework are examples of
- A.
Congressional continuity.
- B.
Descriptive representation.
- C.
Position taking.
- D.
Advertising techniques.
- E.
Opportunities for credit claiming by members of Congress.
Correct Answer
E. Opportunities for credit claiming by members of Congress.Explanation
The pork barrel and casework refer to specific practices in which members of Congress claim credit for bringing federal funds or resources to their constituents. Pork barrel refers to the allocation of government spending for localized projects that benefit a specific district or state, allowing members of Congress to claim credit for securing those funds. Casework, on the other hand, involves assisting constituents in dealing with federal agencies and navigating bureaucratic processes, again allowing members of Congress to claim credit for helping their constituents. Both practices provide opportunities for credit claiming by members of Congress.Rate this question:
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- 3.
According to the Constitution, once impeached, federal officials are then tried in the
- A.
House.
- B.
United States District Court for the District of Columbia.
- C.
Supreme Court.
- D.
Senate.
- E.
Department of Justice.
Correct Answer
D. Senate.Explanation
According to the Constitution, federal officials who are impeached are then tried in the Senate. The Senate is responsible for conducting the trial and deciding whether to convict or acquit the impeached official. This process is outlined in Article I, Section 3, Clause 6 of the Constitution, which grants the Senate the "sole Power to try all Impeachments." The House of Representatives has the authority to impeach, but the Senate has the final say in the trial phase.Rate this question:
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- 4.
The principal leader of the minority party in the House or in the Senate is called the
- A.
President pro tempore.
- B.
Minority leader.
- C.
Vice president.
- D.
Majority leader.
- E.
Speaker.
Correct Answer
B. Minority leader.Explanation
The correct answer is "minority leader." In both the House and the Senate, the minority leader is the principal leader of the minority party. They are responsible for representing the interests and viewpoints of their party and coordinating their party's legislative strategy. The minority leader plays a crucial role in shaping the legislative agenda and advocating for their party's positions, especially when their party does not hold the majority of seats in the chamber.Rate this question:
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- 5.
Only _______ can formally submit a bill for congressional consideration.
- A.
Members of the House
- B.
The Speaker of the House
- C.
Members of the House or Senators
- D.
The president
- E.
Senators
Correct Answer
C. Members of the House or SenatorsExplanation
Members of the House or Senators can formally submit a bill for congressional consideration. This means that both members of the House of Representatives and Senators have the authority to propose legislation that will be reviewed and potentially passed into law. The Speaker of the House, the president, and Senators also have important roles in the legislative process, but they do not have the exclusive power to submit bills for consideration.Rate this question:
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- 6.
A proposed law, drafted in legal language is called a(n)
- A.
Opinion.
- B.
Bill.
- C.
Committee report.
- D.
Statute.
- E.
Caucus.
Correct Answer
B. Bill.Explanation
A proposed law, drafted in legal language, is commonly referred to as a bill. This term is used to describe a formal document that outlines a proposed law and is presented to a legislative body for consideration. The drafting of a bill involves careful legal language and is an essential step in the legislative process. Once a bill is introduced, it undergoes review, debate, and potential amendments before it can become law. Therefore, out of the options provided, "bill" is the most appropriate term to describe a proposed law drafted in legal language.Rate this question:
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- 7.
In contrasts to the trustee model of representation, the _______ model of representation is based on legislators mirroring the preferences of their constituents.
- A.
Burkean
- B.
Uninstructed delegates
- C.
Instructed delegates
- D.
Pollster
- E.
Politico
Correct Answer
C. Instructed delegatesExplanation
The instructed delegates model of representation is based on legislators mirroring the preferences of their constituents. In this model, legislators are expected to follow the specific instructions and preferences of the people they represent. This means that they are bound to act according to the will of their constituents, rather than making independent decisions or relying on their own judgment. This model emphasizes the importance of direct democracy and ensuring that legislators act as delegates rather than trustees.Rate this question:
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- 8.
Most of the business of Congress takes place
- A.
During evening social functions.
- B.
In the Rules Committee.
- C.
On the floor of the House and Senate.
- D.
In congressional districts.
- E.
In committees and subcommittees.
Correct Answer
E. In committees and subcommittees.Explanation
The correct answer is "in committees and subcommittees." This is because committees and subcommittees are where most of the legislative work in Congress takes place. These committees are responsible for reviewing and amending proposed bills, conducting investigations, and making recommendations for legislation. They play a crucial role in shaping and refining legislation before it reaches the floor of the House or Senate for a vote. Additionally, committees and subcommittees provide a forum for members of Congress to deliberate and discuss important issues in detail, allowing for a more thorough examination of legislation.Rate this question:
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- 9.
Appropriations, Judiciary, and Armed Services are all examples of _______ committees.
- A.
Standing
- B.
Rule
- C.
Joint
- D.
Select
- E.
Conference
Correct Answer
A. StandingExplanation
Appropriations, Judiciary, and Armed Services are all examples of standing committees. Standing committees are permanent committees in a legislative body that are established to handle specific areas of legislation. They are called "standing" because they exist from one session of the legislature to the next, providing continuity and expertise in their respective areas. These committees are responsible for reviewing, amending, and recommending legislation related to their assigned subject matter. Standing committees play a crucial role in the legislative process by conducting hearings, gathering information, and making recommendations for further action on bills.Rate this question:
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- 10.
________ committees draw their membership from both the Senate and the House.
- A.
Standing
- B.
Conference
- C.
Select
- D.
Ad-hoc
- E.
Joint
Correct Answer
E. JointExplanation
Joint committees draw their membership from both the Senate and the House. These committees are formed to address specific issues or conduct investigations that require collaboration and input from both chambers of Congress. Joint committees allow for bipartisan cooperation and ensure that both the Senate and the House have representation and input in the decision-making process.Rate this question:
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- 11.
When the House and the Senate pass different versions of the same bill
- A.
A joint committee is appointed to resolve differences.
- B.
The House bill is changed to conform with the Senate bill.
- C.
The president may select which bill to enact into law.
- D.
The Senate bill is changed to conform with the House bill.
- E.
A conference committee is appointed to resolve differences.
Correct Answer
E. A conference committee is appointed to resolve differences.Explanation
When the House and the Senate pass different versions of the same bill, a conference committee is appointed to resolve differences. This committee is composed of members from both the House and the Senate and their role is to negotiate and reach a compromise on the conflicting provisions of the bills. Once the committee reaches an agreement, they produce a conference report which includes the final version of the bill. This report is then voted on by both chambers of Congress before it can be sent to the president for approval or veto.Rate this question:
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- 12.
Legislative _______ is the process of monitoring the bureaucracy and its administration of policy.
- A.
Stonewalling
- B.
Oversight
- C.
Franking
- D.
Supremacy
- E.
Overview
Correct Answer
B. OversightExplanation
Oversight is the correct answer because it refers to the process of monitoring the bureaucracy and its administration of policy. It involves ensuring that government agencies and officials are carrying out their duties and responsibilities effectively and in accordance with the law. Oversight helps to prevent corruption, abuse of power, and inefficiency within the government, and it promotes transparency and accountability.Rate this question:
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- 13.
Which of the following is unique to the Senate?
- A.
Committee leaders
- B.
Majority leader
- C.
Congressional caucus
- D.
Seniority system
- E.
The filibuster
Correct Answer
E. The filibusterExplanation
The filibuster is unique to the Senate because it allows a senator to delay or block a vote on a bill by speaking for an extended period of time. This tactic is not available in the House of Representatives. The filibuster gives individual senators significant power to shape legislation and can be used to prevent the majority party from passing bills without significant support from the minority party. It has been a controversial and often debated aspect of Senate procedure.Rate this question:
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- 14.
The procedure used to cut off debate and end a filibuster is known as
- A.
Franking.
- B.
Overriding.
- C.
Cloture.
- D.
Coattails.
- E.
Hushing.
Correct Answer
C. Cloture.Explanation
Cloture is the correct answer because it refers to the procedure used to cut off debate and end a filibuster. Filibustering is a tactic used in legislative bodies to delay or prevent a vote on a proposed law by speaking for an extended period of time. Cloture is a mechanism that allows a supermajority of members to vote to end the filibuster and proceed to a vote on the legislation. It is a way to bring a debate to a close and move forward with the legislative process.Rate this question:
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- 15.
Which of the following does the Speaker of the House NOT play a role in?
- A.
Presiding over the House when it is in session.
- B.
Appointing the party's legislative leaders.
- C.
Assigning most bills to committees.
- D.
Recommending which members should be expelled from the House for failure to support the party's positions on bills.
- E.
Making committee assignments.
Correct Answer
D. Recommending which members should be expelled from the House for failure to support the party's positions on bills.Explanation
The Speaker of the House plays a role in presiding over the House when it is in session, appointing the party's legislative leaders, assigning most bills to committees, and making committee assignments. However, the Speaker does not have the authority to recommend which members should be expelled from the House for failure to support the party's positions on bills. This decision is typically made by the party leadership or through a formal disciplinary process within the House.Rate this question:
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- 16.
The most powerful person in the Senate is the
- A.
Majority leader.
- B.
Chair of the Rules committee.
- C.
President of the United States.
- D.
Vice president of the United States, who serves as president of the Senate.
- E.
Speaker.
Correct Answer
A. Majority leader.Explanation
The majority leader is considered the most powerful person in the Senate because they hold significant control over the legislative agenda and have the authority to schedule and prioritize bills for debate and voting. They also play a crucial role in coordinating party members and shaping the party's policy agenda. Additionally, the majority leader holds the power to appoint committee chairs and influence the appointment of committee members, further enhancing their control and influence within the Senate.Rate this question:
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- 17.
Which of the following statements about PACs is TRUE?
- A.
PAC expenditures are limited to $5,000 per candidate.
- B.
Most PAC money is given to incumbents.
- C.
PACs seek access to policymakers.
- D.
All of the above
- E.
None of the above
Correct Answer
D. All of the aboveExplanation
The correct answer is "All of the above". This means that all of the statements about PACs mentioned in the options are true. PAC expenditures are indeed limited to $5,000 per candidate. Most PAC money is given to incumbents, meaning those who are already holding office. PACs also seek access to policymakers, indicating their desire to influence the decision-making process.Rate this question:
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- 18.
Party loyalty at the voting booth is
- A.
Still a good predictor of voting behavior.
- B.
Greater among Democrats than among Republicans.
- C.
No longer a good indication of voting behavior.
- D.
Almost nonexistent today.
- E.
Stronger than it was a generation ago.
Correct Answer
A. Still a good predictor of voting behavior.Explanation
This answer suggests that party loyalty at the voting booth continues to be a reliable indicator of voting behavior. This means that individuals who identify with a particular political party are more likely to vote for candidates from that party. The answer implies that despite potential changes in the political landscape, party loyalty remains a significant factor in determining how individuals cast their votes.Rate this question:
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- 19.
A legislature divided into two houses is called a _______ legislature.
- A.
Unicameral
- B.
Double
- C.
Bicameral
- D.
Dual
- E.
Divided
Correct Answer
C. BicameralExplanation
A legislature divided into two houses is called a bicameral legislature. In a bicameral system, there are two separate chambers or houses that work together to make laws and govern. This system is often used to provide checks and balances, allowing for a more thorough and deliberative legislative process. One house may represent the interests of the population as a whole, while the other represents specific regions or groups. This division of power helps to prevent the concentration of power in one single body and promotes democratic decision-making.Rate this question:
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- 20.
After each federal census,
- A.
The office of the Speaker of the House changes hands.
- B.
The Senate reapportions its membership.
- C.
The membership of the House is reapportioned.
- D.
The size of Congress increases.
- E.
All of the above
Correct Answer
C. The membership of the House is reapportioned.Explanation
After each federal census, the membership of the House is reapportioned. This is because the federal census collects data on the population of each state, and based on this data, the number of seats in the House of Representatives is adjusted to ensure that each state is fairly represented. This process is known as reapportionment, and it is done to reflect any changes in population distribution across the country. Therefore, after each federal census, the membership of the House is adjusted to maintain proportional representation.Rate this question:
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- 21.
Which of the following is TRUE of the Senate as compared to the House?
- A.
In the Senate, seniority is important in determining power.
- B.
The Senate is more influential on the budget.
- C.
The Senate is smaller in number, and less powerful and less prestigious.
- D.
The Senate is more influential in foreign matters.
- E.
The Senate is more centralized and is characterized by stronger leadership.
Correct Answer
D. The Senate is more influential in foreign matters.Explanation
The correct answer is that the Senate is more influential in foreign matters. This is because the Senate has the power to ratify treaties and confirm ambassadors, which gives them a greater role in shaping foreign policy. Additionally, the Senate has the authority to conduct hearings and investigations on foreign policy issues, further enhancing their influence in this area.Rate this question:
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- 22.
Nominees to the United States Supreme Court must be confirmed by
- A.
Either the House or the Senate.
- B.
Both the House and the Senate.
- C.
The House.
- D.
The Senate.
- E.
The president.
Correct Answer
D. The Senate.Explanation
Nominees to the United States Supreme Court must be confirmed by the Senate. This is because the Constitution gives the power of advice and consent to the Senate, meaning they have the authority to approve or reject the president's nominations for the Supreme Court. The House of Representatives does not have a role in the confirmation process for Supreme Court nominees. The president nominates individuals for the Supreme Court, but it is the Senate that ultimately decides whether to confirm them or not.Rate this question:
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- 23.
The incomes and occupations of members of Congress
- A.
Places over 90 percent of them in the millionaire businessperson class.
- B.
Would, for the most part, make them members of the elite in American society.
- C.
Have no real impact on public policymaking.
- D.
Are very close to the average found among their constituency.
- E.
Typically reflect the pluralistic nature of American society.
Correct Answer
B. Would, for the most part, make them members of the elite in American society.Explanation
The answer suggests that the incomes and occupations of members of Congress would largely classify them as part of the elite in American society. This implies that they belong to a privileged and influential group, which often holds significant power and influence in decision-making processes.Rate this question:
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- 24.
What is descriptive representation?
- A.
Representing issues affecting the poor when the representative is extremely wealthy.
- B.
Representing the interest of groups.
- C.
When members of Congress have not lived in their home district very long.
- D.
When members of Congress serve on committees.
- E.
Representing constituents by mirroring their personal, politically relevant characteristics.
Correct Answer
E. Representing constituents by mirroring their personal, politically relevant characteristics.Explanation
Descriptive representation refers to the concept of representing constituents by mirroring their personal, politically relevant characteristics. This means that representatives are chosen based on shared characteristics such as race, gender, ethnicity, or socioeconomic background, in order to better understand and advocate for the interests and perspectives of their constituents. This approach aims to ensure that diverse voices and experiences are included in the decision-making process, leading to more inclusive and effective representation.Rate this question:
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- 25.
Women occupied ______ percent of the seats in the 110th Congress.
- A.
20
- B.
40
- C.
10
- D.
16
- E.
5
Correct Answer
D. 16Explanation
The correct answer is 16. This means that women occupied 16 percent of the seats in the 110th Congress.Rate this question:
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- 26.
Which of the following statements is FALSE?
- A.
Most incumbents decide to run for reelection.
- B.
Most incumbents running for reelection are victorious.
- C.
Most incumbents forgo the opportunity to run for reelection.
- D.
In 2006, 89 percent of House incumbents were reelected.
- E.
In 2006, 92 percent of Senate incumbents were reelected.
Correct Answer
C. Most incumbents forgo the opportunity to run for reelection.Explanation
In the given options, the statement "Most incumbents forgo the opportunity to run for reelection" is false. This is because the other statements provide evidence that most incumbents do decide to run for reelection and are usually victorious. The fact that in 2006, 89 percent of House incumbents and 92 percent of Senate incumbents were reelected further supports this. Therefore, the false statement is that most incumbents forgo the opportunity to run for reelection.Rate this question:
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- 27.
Which of these candidates would most likely get elected?
- A.
A challenger
- B.
A representative running for reelection
- C.
A senator running for reelection
- D.
An incumbent representative challenging a senator
- E.
An incumbent
Correct Answer
B. A representative running for reelectionExplanation
A representative running for reelection would most likely get elected because they have already held the position and have the advantage of name recognition and experience. They have already proven themselves to the voters and have built a track record that they can campaign on. Additionally, incumbents generally have access to more resources and support from their party, making them stronger candidates.Rate this question:
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- 28.
Cutting through red tape to give people what they think they have a right to is
- A.
Pork barrel politics.
- B.
Franking.
- C.
Credit claiming.
- D.
Advertising.
- E.
Casework.
Correct Answer
E. Casework.Explanation
Casework refers to the process of helping individuals navigate through bureaucratic red tape to obtain the benefits or services they believe they are entitled to. This involves assisting constituents with issues such as obtaining government benefits, resolving problems with government agencies, or providing information about available resources. The phrase "cutting through red tape" suggests that the answer is related to overcoming bureaucratic obstacles, and casework fits this description. Pork barrel politics, franking, credit claiming, and advertising are not directly related to helping individuals with their specific needs and rights.Rate this question:
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- 29.
The first woman to serve as Speaker of the House was Hillary Clinton.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. FalseExplanation
The statement is false. Hillary Clinton has never served as Speaker of the House. The first woman to serve as Speaker of the House was Nancy Pelosi, who held the position from 2007 to 2011 and then again from 2019 onwards.Rate this question:
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- 30.
There are 435 members of the House, and 100 senators.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
The statement is true because there are indeed 435 members in the House of Representatives and 100 senators in the Senate. This is the current composition of the United States Congress, with the House being made up of representatives from each state based on population, while the Senate has two senators from each state.Rate this question:
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- 31.
More than 90 percent of incumbents in the House of Representatives seeking reelection win.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
The statement is true because historically, more than 90 percent of incumbents in the House of Representatives who seek reelection have been successful. This high rate of success can be attributed to several factors such as name recognition, access to campaign funds, and the advantages of already holding a position in office. Incumbents often have established relationships with constituents and are able to leverage their experience and visibility to secure votes.Rate this question:
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- 32.
In open races, candidates who spend the most usually win.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
In open races, candidates who spend the most usually win. This statement suggests that in elections where there are no restrictions on campaign financing, candidates who have more financial resources at their disposal tend to have an advantage and are more likely to win. This is because they can invest in various campaign strategies such as advertising, outreach, and mobilization efforts, which can help them gain visibility and support from voters. However, it is important to note that while spending money can increase a candidate's chances of winning, it does not guarantee victory as other factors such as candidate's qualifications and voter preferences also play a significant role.Rate this question:
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- 33.
There is a greater likelihood of competition in open seat elections.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
In open seat elections, there is a greater likelihood of competition because there is no incumbent candidate running for re-election. This means that multiple candidates from different parties or factions have the opportunity to compete for the open seat, leading to a more competitive race. In contrast, in elections where there is an incumbent candidate running for re-election, they often have an advantage and face less competition, making the race less competitive.Rate this question:
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- 34.
The term for a member of the House is six years.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. FalseExplanation
The term for a member of the House is not six years. The term for a member of the House of Representatives in the United States is actually two years. Members of the House of Representatives are elected every two years, while members of the Senate serve six-year terms.Rate this question:
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- 35.
The House Rules Committee reviews all bills coming from a House committee before the bills go to the full House.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
The House Rules Committee is responsible for reviewing all bills that come from a House committee before they are presented to the full House. This committee plays a crucial role in determining the rules and procedures for considering each bill, including setting the time for debate and deciding whether amendments can be made. By reviewing the bills, the House Rules Committee ensures that they are properly prepared and organized before they are brought to the attention of the full House for further consideration and voting. Therefore, the statement is true.Rate this question:
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- 36.
A unanimous vote is necessary to halt a filibuster.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. FalseExplanation
A unanimous vote is not necessary to halt a filibuster. In fact, the purpose of a filibuster is to delay or block a vote on a particular issue, and it can only be halted by invoking cloture, which requires a three-fifths majority vote in the US Senate. Therefore, a unanimous vote is not required to end a filibuster.Rate this question:
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- 37.
As Richard Neustadt has argued, presidential power is probably best understood as the power to
- A.
Command.
- B.
Persuade.
- C.
Control.
- D.
Veto.
- E.
Harass.
Correct Answer
B. Persuade.Explanation
Presidential power is best understood as the power to persuade because the president's ability to command is limited by checks and balances in the government. The president cannot unilaterally make decisions or enforce policies without the cooperation and support of other branches of government. Therefore, persuasion becomes a crucial tool for a president to rally public opinion, persuade members of Congress, and build coalitions to achieve their policy goals. By using persuasive communication skills, a president can influence and shape public opinion, gain support for their agenda, and ultimately achieve their policy objectives.Rate this question:
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- 38.
The scandal surrounding Richard Nixon's administration that led to impeachment hearings was known as
- A.
Teapot dome.
- B.
The Camp David Affair.
- C.
Checkers.
- D.
Iran-Contra.
- E.
Watergate.
Correct Answer
E. Watergate.Explanation
The correct answer is Watergate. Watergate refers to the scandal surrounding Richard Nixon's administration that led to impeachment hearings. It involved illegal activities such as the break-in at the Democratic National Committee headquarters and the subsequent cover-up by Nixon and his aides. The scandal ultimately led to Nixon's resignation as President in 1974.Rate this question:
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- 39.
President Clinton's decision making style was
- A.
To set up a chain of command in which all advice was sent upward to his chief of staff who then presented Clinton with the decision-making options.
- B.
To delegate so much decision-making authority to his aides that the media often called them his "handlers."
- C.
To remain highly isolated and make most decisions in consultation only with his two closest advisors.
- D.
To immerse himself in the details of policy and run an open White House, soliciting the advice of a large number of aides.
- E.
Highly organized and decisive, with the president actually flipping a coin to decide issues where his advisors were evenly divided.
Correct Answer
D. To immerse himself in the details of policy and run an open White House, soliciting the advice of a large number of aides.Explanation
President Clinton's decision-making style was to immerse himself in the details of policy and run an open White House, soliciting the advice of a large number of aides. This suggests that he was actively involved in understanding the intricacies of policies and sought input from various individuals in order to make informed decisions. It implies that Clinton valued collaboration and inclusivity in his decision-making process, allowing for a diverse range of perspectives to be considered before reaching a conclusion.Rate this question:
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- 40.
The basic underpinning of approval or disapproval of a president is
- A.
The behavior of the media.
- B.
Personality.
- C.
Political party identification.
- D.
The state of the economy.
- E.
The presidents ability to get her/his program passed by Congress.
Correct Answer
C. Political party identification.Explanation
The approval or disapproval of a president is largely influenced by political party identification. This means that individuals tend to support or oppose a president based on their own political affiliations. People who identify with the same political party as the president are more likely to approve of their actions and policies, while those from opposing parties are more likely to disapprove. This is because party identification shapes people's beliefs, values, and priorities, which in turn influence their perception of the president's performance. Other factors such as the behavior of the media, personality, the state of the economy, and the president's ability to pass their program in Congress may also play a role, but political party identification is considered a fundamental factor in determining approval or disapproval of a president.Rate this question:
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- 41.
The pocket veto can only be used
- A.
When a new president is about to take office.
- B.
During a presidential election year.
- C.
On appropriation bills.
- D.
When Congress is adjourned.
- E.
When Congress is in session.
Correct Answer
D. When Congress is adjourned.Explanation
The pocket veto can only be used when Congress is adjourned. This means that if Congress is not in session and the President receives a bill, they can choose to not sign it and not return it to Congress. This effectively kills the bill and prevents it from becoming law. The pocket veto is often used when the President disagrees with the bill or wants to prevent it from becoming law without taking direct action.Rate this question:
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- 42.
The constitutional power of the president to send a bill back to Congress with reasons for objecting to it is the
- A.
Overdraft power.
- B.
Power to persuade.
- C.
Pocket veto.
- D.
Legislative veto.
- E.
Veto.
Correct Answer
E. Veto.Explanation
The correct answer is "veto." The explanation for this is that the constitutional power of the president to send a bill back to Congress with reasons for objecting to it is known as a veto. This power allows the president to reject a bill passed by Congress and prevent it from becoming a law. By exercising this power, the president can effectively block legislation that they disagree with or believe is not in the best interest of the country.Rate this question:
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- 43.
When a president vetoes congressional legislation,
- A.
The Supreme Court determine whether the law will take effect.
- B.
Congress must form a joint committee to address the president's complaints.
- C.
Congress can override the veto by a two-thirds vote in both houses.
- D.
There is nothing Congress can do about it.
- E.
One house of Congress can override the veto if it votes to do so with a two-thirds vote.
Correct Answer
C. Congress can override the veto by a two-thirds vote in both houses.Explanation
When a president vetoes congressional legislation, Congress has the power to override the veto by a two-thirds vote in both houses. This means that if two-thirds of the members in both the House of Representatives and the Senate vote in favor of the legislation, it will become law despite the president's veto. This is an important check on the president's power and ensures that Congress has the ability to pass legislation even if the president disagrees.Rate this question:
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- 44.
In 1998, the Supreme Court ruled in Clinton v. City of New York that
- A.
The pocket veto was unconstitutional.
- B.
A 1996 law granting the president the authority to propose rescinding funds in appropriation bills was unconstitutional.
- C.
The president could not line-item veto grant monies to urban areas.
- D.
The Clinton impeachment vote was unconstitutional.
- E.
None of the abovw
Correct Answer
B. A 1996 law granting the president the authority to propose rescinding funds in appropriation bills was unconstitutional.Explanation
In 1998, the Supreme Court ruled in Clinton v. City of New York that the 1996 law granting the president the authority to propose rescinding funds in appropriation bills was unconstitutional. This means that the president did not have the power to unilaterally cancel or remove specific funds from a bill that had already been passed by Congress. The Court determined that this violated the separation of powers outlined in the Constitution, as it gave the president excessive control over the budgetary process.Rate this question:
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- 45.
Recent election studies show
- A.
The president's party usually gains seats in Congress in midterm elections.
- B.
That the party of the winning presidential candidate has been gaining an increasing number of seats in Congress.
- C.
A diminishing connection between voters' presidential and congressional voting.
- D.
That many congressional races are determined by presidential coattails.
- E.
That presidential coattails no longer exist.
Correct Answer
C. A diminishing connection between voters' presidential and congressional voting.Explanation
The correct answer is a diminishing connection between voters' presidential and congressional voting. This is supported by recent election studies which indicate that there is a decreasing correlation between the party of the winning presidential candidate and the number of seats gained in Congress. This suggests that voters are becoming more independent in their voting choices and are not simply voting for the same party in both the presidential and congressional elections.Rate this question:
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- 46.
A midterm election is
- A.
One in which the incumbent is running for reelection.
- B.
A special election that may remove an official from office in the middle of the term.
- C.
A congressional election that is not accompanied by a presidential election.
- D.
A presidential election that occurs during a session of Congress.
- E.
Held every two years.
Correct Answer
C. A congressional election that is not accompanied by a presidential election.Explanation
A midterm election is a congressional election that is not accompanied by a presidential election. This means that it is held in the middle of a president's term, typically two years after the previous presidential election. In midterm elections, voters have the opportunity to elect members of Congress, including senators and representatives, but not the president. These elections are important as they can potentially shift the balance of power in Congress and impact the president's ability to pass legislation.Rate this question:
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- 47.
The perception that voters strongly support the president's character and policies is called a(n)
- A.
Confidence veto.
- B.
Veto.
- C.
Pocket veto.
- D.
Landslide.
- E.
Electoral mandate.
Correct Answer
E. Electoral mandate.Explanation
An electoral mandate refers to the perception that voters strongly support the president's character and policies. It suggests that the president has been given a clear and decisive mandate by the people to govern and make decisions on their behalf. This perception often arises when a president wins by a significant margin in an election, indicating widespread public support for their agenda. The term "electoral mandate" is commonly used to describe the authority and legitimacy that a president derives from the support of the electorate.Rate this question:
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- 48.
The primary goal of the president's legislative strategy is usually
- A.
To win on all final votes.
- B.
To win the support of all fellow partisans.
- C.
To block legislation he opposes.
- D.
To set the agenda.
- E.
None of the above
Correct Answer
D. To set the agenda.Explanation
The correct answer is "to set the agenda." The president's legislative strategy aims to establish the priorities and topics that will be addressed in the legislative process. By setting the agenda, the president can influence the focus and direction of the legislative discussions and decisions. This allows the president to shape the policy debates and push for the implementation of their preferred policies. Winning on all final votes or gaining the support of fellow partisans may be desired outcomes, but they are not the primary goal of the president's legislative strategy. Blocking legislation is also not the main objective, as the focus is on proactive agenda-setting rather than obstruction.Rate this question:
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- 49.
The War Powers Resolution may be considered unconstitutional because
- A.
It violates the president's power to declare war.
- B.
Its use of the legislative veto may be considered a violation of the doctrine of separation of powers.
- C.
It violates the president's power as commander in chief.
- D.
It was struck down by the Supreme Court.
- E.
It violates the congressional power to appropriate funds for the military.
Correct Answer
B. Its use of the legislative veto may be considered a violation of the doctrine of separation of powers.Explanation
The War Powers Resolution may be considered unconstitutional because its use of the legislative veto may be seen as a violation of the doctrine of separation of powers. The legislative veto allows Congress to overturn or modify executive actions without the need for a full legislative process. This can be seen as an encroachment on the executive branch's authority and a violation of the principle of checks and balances. The Supreme Court has also expressed concerns about the constitutionality of legislative vetoes in other cases, further supporting this argument.Rate this question:
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- 50.
The Twenty-Fifth Amendment, ratified in 1967,
- A.
Specifically forced Richard Nixon from office.
- B.
Creates a means for selecting a new vice president when the office became vacant.
- C.
Provided for the direct election of the president by the people.
- D.
Granted 18-year-olds the right to vote.
- E.
Limited the president to two terms in office.
Correct Answer
B. Creates a means for selecting a new vice president when the office became vacant.Explanation
The Twenty-Fifth Amendment, ratified in 1967, creates a means for selecting a new vice president when the office became vacant. This means that if the vice president resigns, dies, or is removed from office, the president can nominate a new vice president who must be approved by a majority vote in both the House of Representatives and the Senate. This amendment was created to ensure that there is always a designated successor to the vice presidency, providing stability and continuity in the event of a vacancy in the office.Rate this question:
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Mar 22, 2023Quiz Edited by
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Nov 16, 2011Quiz Created by
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