The U.S. Constitution Knowledge Test
A constitution is a collection of principles that constitute the legal basis of a country or organization. The Constitution of America was signed in the year 1787 and has had a few changes to it. How well do you understand the Constitution and all the rights granted to you as a citizen? Take up this test and get to learn more about it.
Questions and Answers
- 1.
Which of the following people is NOT accurately associated?
- A.
Joe Biden- President
- B.
Kevin McCarthy- Speaker of the House
- C.
Richard Durbin- IL Senator
- D.
Darin LaHood-IL Senator
- E.
John Roberts- Chief Justice of the US Supreme Court
- F.
Tammy Duckworth- IL Senator
Correct Answer
D. Darin LaHood-IL SenatorExplanation
Darin LaHood is not accurately associated as an IL Senator because he is actually a U.S. Representative for Illinois' 18th congressional district, not a senator. The other options are correctly associated, with Joe Biden being the President, Kevin McCarthy being the Speaker of the House, Richard Durbin and Tammy Duckworth being IL Senators, and John Roberts being the Chief Justice of the US Supreme Court.Rate this question:
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- 2.
To accuse someone of a crime is to _____________.
- A.
Impeach
- B.
Filibuster
- C.
Cloture
- D.
Pork barrel
Correct Answer
A. ImpeachExplanation
To accuse someone of a crime is to impeach them. Impeachment refers to the process of charging a public official, such as a president or a judge, with misconduct or wrongdoing. It is a formal accusation that can lead to a trial and potential removal from office. Impeachment is a significant step in holding individuals accountable for their actions and ensuring the integrity of the justice system.Rate this question:
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- 3.
Which of the following is NOT true about the House of Representatives?
- A.
There are 100 members in the House.
- B.
They do the actual impeaching (while the Senate serves as the jury)
- C.
They may have to choose the President if no one wins a majority in the Electoral College.
- D.
A Representative must be 25 years old, a 7 year citizen and a resident of the state.
- E.
A represenative's term is 2 years.
Correct Answer
A. There are 100 members in the House.Explanation
The correct answer is that there are 100 members in the House. However, this statement is not true as the House of Representatives consists of 435 members. Each state is allocated a certain number of representatives based on its population. Therefore, the statement is incorrect.Rate this question:
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- 4.
Which of the following is NOT true about the Senate?
- A.
Senators have a 6 year term.
- B.
In order to maintain stability in this chamber only 1/3 are rotated out at a time.
- C.
Senator's must be 30 years old, a 9 year citizen, and a resident of the State.
- D.
The Senate approves/gives "advice and consent" on treaties and appointments of hte President.
- E.
The # of Senator's a state receives is based on a state's population.
- F.
The Senate serves as a jury during impeachment.
Correct Answer
E. The # of Senator's a state receives is based on a state's population.Explanation
The number of Senators a state receives is not based on a state's population. Each state is represented by two Senators, regardless of its population size. This is known as the principle of equal representation in the Senate.Rate this question:
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- 5.
If 10 days have passed and Congress is still IN SESSION, what happens to the bill that they sent the President?
- A.
It automatically becomes a law without his signature.
- B.
It is pocket vetoed.
- C.
Nothing. He gets 30 days to look at a bill.
Correct Answer
A. It automatically becomes a law without his signature.Explanation
If 10 days have passed and Congress is still in session, it means that the President has not taken any action on the bill within the 10-day period. According to the Constitution, if the President does not sign or veto a bill within 10 days (excluding Sundays), and Congress is still in session, the bill automatically becomes a law without his signature. This is known as a "default enactment" or "passage by default." Therefore, the correct answer is that the bill automatically becomes a law without his signature.Rate this question:
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- 6.
Which of the following terms of office is accurately associated?
- A.
President- 4 years.
- B.
House of reps- 2 years
- C.
Senate- 6 years
- D.
Supreme Court-life or good behavior
- E.
All of the above
Correct Answer
E. All of the aboveExplanation
The correct answer is "all of the above" because each term of office mentioned in the options is accurately associated with its respective position. The President serves a 4-year term, members of the House of Representatives serve a 2-year term, members of the Senate serve a 6-year term, and Supreme Court justices serve for life or good behavior. Therefore, all of the terms of office mentioned are correct.Rate this question:
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- 7.
Which of the following is NOT a power of the president?
- A.
Enforce the law.
- B.
Be commander in chief.
- C.
Veto bills
- D.
Pardon individuals.
- E.
Make the laws.
Correct Answer
E. Make the laws.Explanation
The president does not have the power to make laws. This power is reserved for the legislative branch of government, specifically Congress. The president's role is to enforce the laws passed by Congress, be the commander in chief of the military, veto bills if deemed necessary, and pardon individuals.Rate this question:
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- 8.
What article of the Constitution covers the legislative branch (Congress)?
- A.
I
- B.
II
- C.
III
- D.
IV
- E.
VII
Correct Answer
A. IExplanation
Article I of the Constitution covers the legislative branch, also known as Congress. This article establishes the structure, powers, and responsibilities of Congress, which consists of the House of Representatives and the Senate. It outlines the qualifications and terms of office for members of Congress, as well as the process for creating and passing laws. Article I also grants specific powers to Congress, such as the power to levy taxes, regulate commerce, and declare war. Overall, Article I is crucial in defining the role and authority of the legislative branch in the United States government.Rate this question:
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- 9.
Which of the following is NOT true about the House?
- A.
IL has 17 Representatives in the US House of Representatives
- B.
The # of Representatives a state receives is based on population.
- C.
There are 435 total representatives.
- D.
The Vice President is actually the Speaker of the House.
- E.
You have to be 25 years old and a 7 year citizen to be a US Rep.
Correct Answer
D. The Vice President is actually the Speaker of the House.Explanation
The Vice President is not actually the Speaker of the House. The Speaker of the House is an elected member of the House of Representatives, chosen by their fellow representatives. The Vice President, on the other hand, is the second-highest-ranking official in the executive branch and presides over the Senate.Rate this question:
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- 10.
A bill that passes both chambers both with slightly different wording will be sent to a ______________ to work out the differences.
- A.
Joint conference committee
- B.
Standing committee
- C.
Special committee
- D.
The President
Correct Answer
A. Joint conference committeeExplanation
When a bill passes both chambers of the legislature with slightly different wording, it needs to be reconciled before it can become law. This is done by a joint conference committee, which is composed of members from both the House and the Senate. The committee reviews the differences between the two versions of the bill and works to create a compromise that can be accepted by both chambers. Once the joint conference committee reaches an agreement, the bill is then sent back to both chambers for a final vote.Rate this question:
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- 11.
The head of the Department of Justice is called....?
- A.
The Secretary of Justice.
- B.
Attorney General
- C.
Surgeon General
- D.
US Attorney
Correct Answer
B. Attorney GeneralExplanation
The head of the Department of Justice is called the Attorney General. This individual is responsible for representing the United States in legal matters, advising the President and other executive branch officials on legal issues, and overseeing federal law enforcement agencies. The Attorney General is a key figure in the administration of justice and plays a crucial role in upholding and enforcing the law.Rate this question:
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- 12.
Which of the following cases would NOT be heard at the Supreme Court?
- A.
A case that involved a violation of the US Constitution
- B.
A case that involves a foreign country or offical
- C.
A case that involves a federal law or treaty
- D.
A simple divorce hearing
- E.
A case that involves people of different states.
Correct Answer
D. A simple divorce hearingExplanation
A simple divorce hearing would not be heard at the Supreme Court because it does not involve any constitutional violation, foreign country or official, federal law or treaty, or people of different states. The Supreme Court primarily deals with cases that have significant constitutional implications or cases that involve federal laws, treaties, or disputes between states. Divorce cases are typically handled at the state level by family courts.Rate this question:
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- 13.
The main/general trial court at the federal level that hears more cases than any other court at the federal level is the ________________.
- A.
Supreme Court
- B.
District Court
- C.
Circuit Court of Apeals
Correct Answer
B. District CourtExplanation
The District Court is the correct answer because it is the main trial court at the federal level that handles a higher volume of cases compared to any other federal court. The District Court has original jurisdiction over a wide range of cases, including civil and criminal matters, and it is the court where most federal cases begin. The Supreme Court, on the other hand, is the highest court in the federal system and has limited jurisdiction, primarily focusing on reviewing cases from lower courts. The Circuit Court of Appeals is an intermediate appellate court that reviews decisions made by the District Courts.Rate this question:
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- 14.
Which of the following courts is the only court that uses a jury of of people to decide cases?
- A.
Supreme Court
- B.
Circuit Court of Appeals
- C.
District Court
Correct Answer
C. District CourtExplanation
The District Court is the only court that uses a jury of people to decide cases. The Supreme Court and Circuit Court of Appeals do not use juries. Instead, they primarily review legal issues and make decisions based on the interpretation of the law. In contrast, the District Court is the trial court where cases are initially heard, and a jury of ordinary citizens is used to determine the outcome of the case based on the evidence presented.Rate this question:
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- 15.
Which federal position actually has NO formal qualifications (age, citizenship, residency, etc.)?
- A.
Represenative
- B.
Senator
- C.
President
- D.
Supreme Court Judge
Correct Answer
D. Supreme Court JudgeExplanation
The correct answer is Supreme Court Judge. Unlike the other positions listed, such as Representative, Senator, and President, a Supreme Court Judge does not have any formal qualifications in terms of age, citizenship, residency, etc. The Constitution does not specify any specific requirements for serving as a Supreme Court Judge, leaving it up to the President to nominate and the Senate to confirm the appointment.Rate this question:
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- 16.
The president appoints all of the following EXCEPT...
- A.
Speaker of the House
- B.
Cabinet
- C.
Federal judges
- D.
Ambassadors
- E.
A new VP should one die or resign.
Correct Answer
A. Speaker of the HouseExplanation
The president appoints the Cabinet, federal judges, ambassadors, and a new VP should one die or resign. However, the Speaker of the House is not appointed by the president. The Speaker of the House is elected by members of the House of Representatives.Rate this question:
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- 17.
To become a law, a bill must pass through both chambers with a ___________vote.
- A.
2/3
- B.
Majority
- C.
3/4
- D.
1/3
Correct Answer
B. MajorityExplanation
In order for a bill to become a law, it must pass through both chambers with a majority vote. This means that more than half of the members in each chamber must vote in favor of the bill. A majority vote ensures that there is sufficient support for the bill to be enacted into law, as it represents the will of the majority of the legislators.Rate this question:
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- 18.
What type of jurisdiction does the Supreme Court have?
- A.
Appellate only.
- B.
Original only.
- C.
Both original and appellate jurisdiction.
Correct Answer
C. Both original and appellate jurisdiction.Explanation
The Supreme Court has both original and appellate jurisdiction. This means that it has the authority to hear cases for the first time (original jurisdiction) and also has the power to review decisions made by lower courts (appellate jurisdiction). This dual jurisdiction allows the Supreme Court to ensure that justice is served at both the trial and appellate levels.Rate this question:
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- 19.
How can the courts keep the executive (president) and legislative (Congress) branches in check?
- A.
The veto
- B.
Executive orders
- C.
Make an amendment
- D.
Judicial review
- E.
Approve appointments
Correct Answer
D. Judicial reviewExplanation
Judicial review is a process by which the courts can review and potentially invalidate actions or laws passed by the executive and legislative branches. It allows the courts to ensure that these branches are acting within the bounds of the constitution and are not exceeding their powers. By having the power of judicial review, the courts can keep the executive and legislative branches in check and prevent any potential abuse of power.Rate this question:
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- 20.
What cabinet department handles foreign affairs?
- A.
Department of the Interior
- B.
Department of State
- C.
Department of Justice
- D.
Department of Health and Human Services
Correct Answer
B. Department of StateExplanation
The correct answer is the Department of State. The Department of State is responsible for handling foreign affairs. It is the primary agency that deals with diplomacy, international relations, and the representation of the United States abroad. The Department of State plays a crucial role in formulating and implementing foreign policy, negotiating treaties, and managing diplomatic relations with other countries. It is also responsible for protecting the interests of U.S. citizens abroad and promoting economic and cultural exchanges with other nations.Rate this question:
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- 21.
Who actually chooses the President?
- A.
The people
- B.
Congress
- C.
The electoral college
Correct Answer
C. The electoral collegeExplanation
The President is actually chosen by the electoral college. In the United States, when citizens vote for the President, they are actually voting for electors who are pledged to support a specific candidate. These electors make up the electoral college, and they formally cast the votes that determine the outcome of the presidential election. The candidate who receives a majority of electoral votes (270 out of 538) becomes the President. This system was established by the Founding Fathers as a compromise between electing the President by popular vote and having Congress choose the President.Rate this question:
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- 22.
Who actually declares war?
- A.
Congress
- B.
President
- C.
Secretary of Defense
- D.
Surgeon General
Correct Answer
A. CongressExplanation
The power to declare war is granted to Congress by the United States Constitution. According to Article I, Section 8, Clause 11, only Congress has the authority to declare war. This division of power was established to ensure that the decision to go to war is made collectively and with careful consideration. The President, Secretary of Defense, and Surgeon General do not have the authority to declare war on their own; it is ultimately the responsibility of Congress.Rate this question:
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- 23.
How many terms can the President serve?
- A.
3
- B.
4
- C.
2
- D.
1
- E.
An unlimited number
Correct Answer
C. 2Explanation
The President can serve a maximum of two terms. This is because according to the 22nd Amendment of the United States Constitution, a person can only be elected as President for a maximum of two terms. This amendment was ratified in 1951 in response to President Franklin D. Roosevelt's four-term presidency. Before this amendment, there was no limit on the number of terms a President could serve.Rate this question:
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- 24.
The Social Security Administration and Food and Drug Administration fall under what cabinet department?
- A.
Energy
- B.
Health and Human Services
- C.
Veteran's Affairs
- D.
Education
- E.
Defense
Correct Answer
B. Health and Human ServicesExplanation
The Social Security Administration and Food and Drug Administration fall under the Health and Human Services cabinet department because this department is responsible for promoting public health and providing essential human services. It oversees various agencies and programs, including those related to healthcare, social security, and food and drug safety.Rate this question:
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- 25.
Before the 17th amendment, how were Senators chosen?
- A.
By the direct election of the people.
- B.
By the State Legislatures
- C.
By Congress
- D.
By lottery
Correct Answer
B. By the State LegislaturesExplanation
Before the 17th amendment, Senators were chosen by the State Legislatures. This means that each state's legislature would select their state's Senators to represent them in Congress. This process allowed the state governments to have a direct say in who would represent them at the federal level. The 17th amendment, however, changed this system and introduced the direct election of Senators by the people.Rate this question:
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- 26.
The only amendment to repeal another amendment is the __________amendment.
- A.
17th
- B.
26th
- C.
10th
- D.
21st
- E.
18th
Correct Answer
D. 21stExplanation
The 21st amendment is the only amendment that repeals another amendment. It repealed the 18th amendment, which established Prohibition, and effectively ended the ban on alcohol in the United States. This makes the 21st amendment unique in its purpose and impact compared to the other amendments listed.Rate this question:
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- 27.
How many judges are there on the Supreme Court?
- A.
6
- B.
12
- C.
9
- D.
5
- E.
10
Correct Answer
C. 9Explanation
There are 9 judges on the Supreme Court.Rate this question:
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- 28.
Special Interest groups that attempt to pressure law makers are called ___________.
- A.
Lobbies
- B.
Pork barrels
- C.
Log rollers
- D.
Electoral college
- E.
Constituents
Correct Answer
A. LobbiesExplanation
Special interest groups that attempt to pressure law makers are called lobbies. These groups aim to influence legislation and policies in favor of their specific interests or causes. They engage in activities such as lobbying, advocacy, and campaign contributions to sway lawmakers and shape public policy decisions. Lobbies can represent a wide range of interests, including business, labor unions, environmental organizations, and social justice groups. Their efforts can have a significant impact on the legislative process and the formulation of laws and regulations.Rate this question:
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- 29.
The heads of the 15 major departments that advise the President are called...?
- A.
The Executive Office of the President
- B.
The cabinet
- C.
Chairmen of the board
- D.
Lobbies
- E.
Federal Reserve
Correct Answer
B. The cabinetExplanation
The correct answer is the cabinet. The heads of the 15 major departments that advise the President are collectively known as the cabinet. The cabinet is responsible for advising the President on various issues and making important decisions regarding government policies and actions. They play a crucial role in the executive branch of the government and help shape the President's agenda and decision-making process.Rate this question:
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- 30.
The Supreme Court is part of what branch?
- A.
Executive
- B.
Legislative
- C.
Judicial
Correct Answer
C. JudicialExplanation
The Supreme Court is part of the judicial branch. This branch of government is responsible for interpreting and applying the law. The Supreme Court is the highest court in the United States and has the power to make final decisions on legal cases and to interpret the Constitution. As part of the judicial branch, the Supreme Court plays a crucial role in ensuring the separation of powers and upholding the rule of law.Rate this question:
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- 31.
The # of electoral votes a state receives is based on what?
- A.
The # of Senators a state has
- B.
The # of House members a state has
- C.
The # of Reps + Senators a state has
- D.
The amount of taxes a state pays
Correct Answer
C. The # of Reps + Senators a state hasExplanation
The number of electoral votes a state receives is based on the number of Representatives and Senators a state has. Each state is allocated a certain number of Representatives based on its population, and every state has two Senators. The total number of Representatives and Senators determines the number of electoral votes a state has.Rate this question:
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- 32.
Which of the following is NOT a formal qualification for President found in the Constitution?
- A.
35 years old
- B.
Natural born citizen
- C.
14 years resident of the US
- D.
Male
Correct Answer
D. MaleExplanation
The Constitution does not specify that the President must be male. However, it does state that the President must be at least 35 years old, a natural born citizen, and have been a resident of the US for at least 14 years. Therefore, the requirement of being male is not a formal qualification for the President as stated in the Constitution.Rate this question:
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- 33.
What amendment ended the lame duck period after an election by moving up the start date for elected officials to January?
- A.
21st
- B.
17th
- C.
19th
- D.
20th
Correct Answer
D. 20thExplanation
The 20th amendment ended the lame duck period after an election by moving up the start date for elected officials to January. This amendment, also known as the "Lame Duck Amendment," was ratified in 1933 and changed the presidential inauguration from March 4th to January 20th. It also moved the start date for Congress from March 4th to January 3rd. This amendment was enacted to reduce the time between the election and the assumption of office, ensuring a more efficient and timely transition of power.Rate this question:
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- 34.
Who is the President of the Senate?
- A.
Vice President
- B.
Speaker of the House
- C.
Ray LaHood
- D.
George W. Bush
- E.
Barack Obama
Correct Answer
A. Vice PresidentExplanation
The President of the Senate is the Vice President of the United States. According to the United States Constitution, the Vice President serves as the President of the Senate and presides over its sessions. The Vice President has the power to cast a tie-breaking vote in the event of a tie on any legislation being considered by the Senate. Therefore, the correct answer is Vice President.Rate this question:
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- 35.
Who fills in for the President of the Senate when he can't be there in the Senate?
- A.
Vice President
- B.
Speaker of the House
- C.
President Pro Tempore
- D.
Whip
Correct Answer
C. President Pro TemporeExplanation
The President Pro Tempore fills in for the President of the Senate when he can't be there in the Senate. The President Pro Tempore is the senator who is elected to preside over the Senate in the absence of the Vice President. This role is usually given to the most senior member of the majority party in the Senate.Rate this question:
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- 36.
During impeachment proceedings, if the President is on trial, the trial will be run by the ...
- A.
Speaker of the House
- B.
Senate Majority Leader
- C.
Chief Justice of the Supreme Court
- D.
ATtorney General Neither original or appellate
Correct Answer
C. Chief Justice of the Supreme CourtExplanation
During impeachment proceedings, if the President is on trial, the trial will be run by the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court. This is because the Chief Justice is responsible for presiding over the impeachment trial of a President. The Speaker of the House and the Senate Majority Leader do not have the authority to run the trial, and the Attorney General is not involved in the impeachment process. Additionally, the question states that the trial will be run by neither original nor appellate, meaning that the trial is not conducted by a lower court or an appeals court, but rather by the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court.Rate this question:
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- 37.
How many electoral votes does Illinois currently have (2020 election)?
- A.
25
- B.
3
- C.
53
- D.
18
Correct Answer
D. 18Explanation
Illinois currently has 18 electoral votes in the 2020 election. Electoral votes are allocated to states based on their representation in Congress, with each state receiving a number of electoral votes equal to the total number of their Senators and Representatives. Illinois has 2 Senators and 18 Representatives, resulting in a total of 20 electoral votes. However, the District of Columbia is also allocated 3 electoral votes, which are included in the total count. Therefore, Illinois currently has 18 electoral votes.Rate this question:
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