AP Government Public Policy
- 1.
- The framers of the Constitution all believed that one of the primary functions of government is
- 2.
- In The Federalist papers, James Madison expressed the view that political factions
- 3.
Politicians have become more heavily dependent on the media as
- A.
The public has become better educated.
- B.
The federal bureaucracy has enlarged itself.
- C.
Public affairs have become much more complex.
- D.
The scope of government has expanded.
- E.
Political party organizations have declined.
Correct Answer
E. Political party organizations have declined.Explanation
As political party organizations have declined, politicians have become more heavily dependent on the media. With the decline of party organizations, politicians have lost a significant source of support and resources. They now rely more on the media to reach and connect with the public, as well as to shape public opinion and gain visibility. The media provides a platform for politicians to communicate their messages and engage with voters, making it a crucial tool in modern political campaigns.Rate this question:
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- 4.
Which of the following is an example of checks and balances, as established by the Constitution?
- A.
A requirement that states lower their legal drinking age to eighteenas a condition of receiving funds through federal highway grant programs
- B.
Media criticism of public officials during an election campaignperiod
- C.
The Supreme Court's ability to overturn a lower court decision
- D.
The requirement that presidential appointments to the SupremeCourt be approved by the Senate
- E.
The election of the President by the electoral college rather thanby direct election
Correct Answer
D. The requirement that presidential appointments to the SupremeCourt be approved by the SenateExplanation
The requirement that presidential appointments to the Supreme Court be approved by the Senate is an example of checks and balances. This is because it ensures that the President does not have unchecked power in appointing Supreme Court justices. The Senate acts as a check on the President's authority by reviewing and approving or rejecting these appointments. This system prevents any one branch of government from becoming too powerful and allows for a balance of power among the three branches.Rate this question:
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- 5.
When selecting a vice-presidential candidate, a presidential nominee is usually concerned primarily with choosing a running mate who
- A.
Has significant personal wealth
- B.
Adds balance and appeal to the national ticket
- C.
Comes from the same ideological wing of the party as the President
- D.
Can serve as the most important domestic policy adviser to the President
- E.
Can effectively preside over the Senate
Correct Answer
B. Adds balance and appeal to the national ticketExplanation
The correct answer is "adds balance and appeal to the national ticket." When selecting a vice-presidential candidate, a presidential nominee is typically interested in choosing someone who can bring a sense of balance and appeal to the overall ticket. This means selecting a running mate who complements the nominee's strengths and can potentially attract a wider range of voters. By selecting a vice-presidential candidate who adds balance and appeal, the presidential nominee aims to create a stronger and more appealing ticket for the national electorate.Rate this question:
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- 6.
The role of a conference committee in Congress is to
- A.
Hold hearings on proposed legislation
- B.
Oversee the actions of the executive branch of the government
- C.
Decide which bills should be considered by the full Senate
- D.
Conduct hearings that make information available to the public
- E.
Reconcile differences in bills passed by the House and Senate
Correct Answer
E. Reconcile differences in bills passed by the House and SenateExplanation
The role of a conference committee in Congress is to reconcile differences in bills passed by the House and Senate. Conference committees are created when the House and Senate pass different versions of the same bill. The committee members, usually selected from both chambers, work together to negotiate and reach a compromise on the differences between the two versions. Once a compromise is reached, the committee presents a unified bill that can be voted on by both chambers. This process is crucial in ensuring that both the House and Senate can agree on a final version of the bill before it becomes law.Rate this question:
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- 7.
Congressional standing committees are best described as
- A.
Specially appointed investigative bodies
- B.
Joint committees of the two houses of Congress
- C.
Committees created for each session
- D.
Permanent subject-matter committees
- E.
Advisory staff agencies
Correct Answer
D. Permanent subject-matter committeesExplanation
Standing committees in Congress are permanent subject-matter committees that are established to handle specific areas of legislation. These committees are responsible for conducting hearings, drafting and revising bills, and overseeing the implementation of laws within their respective areas of expertise. Unlike other types of committees, standing committees are not temporary and continue to exist from one session of Congress to the next. They play a crucial role in the legislative process by providing expertise and specialized knowledge on specific policy areas.Rate this question:
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- 8.
All of the following powers are granted to the President by the Constitution EXCEPT
- A.
Commissioning officers in the armed forces
- B.
Addressing the Congress on the state of the union
- C.
Receiving ambassadors
- D.
Granting pardons for federal offenses
- E.
Forming new cabinet-level departments
Correct Answer
E. Forming new cabinet-level departmentsExplanation
The President is granted the power to commission officers in the armed forces, address the Congress on the state of the union, receive ambassadors, and grant pardons for federal offenses. However, forming new cabinet-level departments is not explicitly granted to the President by the Constitution.Rate this question:
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- 9.
In McCulloch v. Maryland, the Supreme Court established which of the following principles?
- A.
States cannot interfere with or tax the legitimate activities of the federal government.
- B.
The judicial branch cannot intervene in political disputes between the President and Congress.
- C.
The federal Bill of Rights places no limitations on the states.
- D.
The federal government has the power to regulate commerce.
- E.
It is within the judiciary's authority to interpret the constitution.
Correct Answer
A. States cannot interfere with or tax the legitimate activities of the federal government.Explanation
In McCulloch v. Maryland, the Supreme Court established the principle that states cannot interfere with or tax the legitimate activities of the federal government. This case involved a dispute over whether the state of Maryland had the power to tax the Second Bank of the United States, which was a federal institution. The Supreme Court ruled that states cannot impose taxes or regulations that obstruct the functioning of federal agencies, as it would undermine the authority and effectiveness of the federal government. This decision reaffirmed the supremacy of the federal government over the states in matters related to its legitimate activities.Rate this question:
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- 10.
Which of the following procedures results in the removal of the President from office?
- A.
The House and Senate vote for impeachment, and the Supreme Court reaches a guilty verdict.
- B.
The House votes for impeachment, and the Senate conducts a trial and reaches a guilty verdict.
- C.
The House and Senate both vote for a bill of impeachment
- D.
Only the House votes for a bill of impeachment.
- E.
A criminal court finds the President guilty of "high crimes and misdemeanors."
Correct Answer
B. The House votes for impeachment, and the Senate conducts a trial and reaches a guilty verdict.Explanation
The correct answer is that the House votes for impeachment, and the Senate conducts a trial and reaches a guilty verdict. This is the correct procedure for removing a President from office according to the United States Constitution. The House of Representatives has the power to impeach the President by bringing charges against them, and if a majority of the House votes in favor of impeachment, the President is officially impeached. The Senate then conducts a trial to determine whether the President is guilty or not, and if two-thirds of the Senators present vote for conviction, the President is removed from office.Rate this question:
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- 11.
The boundaries of United States congressional districts are usually determined by
- A.
The Federal Election Commission (FEC)
- B.
The state legislatures
- C.
The House Rules Committee
- D.
A conference committee of the House and Senate
- E.
The director of the United States Census Bureau
Correct Answer
B. The state legislaturesExplanation
The correct answer is the state legislatures. The boundaries of United States congressional districts are typically determined by the state legislatures. This is because the Constitution grants states the authority to establish and regulate the electoral process within their own boundaries. State legislatures have the power to redraw congressional district boundaries, a process known as redistricting, usually following the decennial census. This allows the state legislatures to reflect changes in population and ensure fair representation for their constituents.Rate this question:
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- 12.
Diversity of public policy throughout the United States is primarily a consequence of
- A.
Federalism
- B.
Separation of powers
- C.
Innovation within bureaucratic agencies
- D.
Decentralization in the Senate
- E.
Lack of party discipline in the House
Correct Answer
A. FederalismExplanation
The diversity of public policy throughout the United States is primarily a consequence of federalism. Federalism is a system of government where power is divided between a central authority and individual states. This division of power allows for different states to have their own policies and regulations based on their unique needs and preferences. As a result, there is a wide range of public policies across the country, reflecting the diverse perspectives and priorities of different states.Rate this question:
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- 13.
The reserved powers of the state governments can best be described as those powers
- A.
Not specifically granted to the national government or denied to the states
- B.
Implied in the Fifth Amendment
- C.
Listed specifically in the Tenth Amendment
- D.
Exercised by both national and state governments
- E.
Granted to states as part of the implied powers doctrine
Correct Answer
A. Not specifically granted to the national government or denied to the statesExplanation
The reserved powers of the state governments refer to those powers that are not specifically granted to the national government or denied to the states. This means that any powers that are not explicitly mentioned in the Constitution as belonging to the federal government or prohibited to the states are reserved for the states. These powers are an important aspect of federalism, allowing states to have autonomy and make decisions on matters not within the purview of the national government.Rate this question:
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- 14.
Which of the following form an "iron triangle"?
- A.
President, Congress, Supreme Court
- B.
President, House majority leader, Senate majority leader
- C.
Interest group, Senate majority leader, House majority leader
- D.
Executive department, House majority leader, President
- E.
Executive department, Congressional committee, interest group
Correct Answer
E. Executive department, Congressional committee, interest groupExplanation
An "iron triangle" refers to a mutually beneficial relationship between three entities that work together to advance their common interests. In this case, the executive department, congressional committee, and interest group form an "iron triangle" because they collaborate to shape and influence policies that align with their shared goals. The executive department proposes policies, the congressional committee reviews and modifies them, and the interest group provides support and lobbying efforts to ensure the policies are implemented in their favor. This symbiotic relationship allows each entity to have a significant influence on the decision-making process.Rate this question:
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- 15.
American Bureaucracy is complex because?
- A.
Authority is divided among several managing institutions.
- B.
It is heavily dependent on career employees.
- C.
Federalism encourages the abuse of power.
- D.
Civil servants are immune from firing.
Correct Answer
A. Authority is divided among several managing institutions.Explanation
The complexity of American Bureaucracy is due to the division of authority among several managing institutions. This means that power and decision-making are spread across multiple agencies and departments, leading to a more intricate and convoluted bureaucratic system. As a result, coordination and cooperation can be challenging, and it can be difficult to hold anyone accountable for the outcomes or actions of the bureaucracy. This division of authority can also contribute to delays and inefficiencies in the decision-making process, further adding to the complexity of American Bureaucracy.Rate this question:
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- 16.
The political ideology of a president appointee is importantbecause he or she
- A.
Must often work with radical groups.
- B.
Affects how the laws are interpreted.
- C.
Is usually bound by specific directives.
- D.
Typically has strong party ties.
Correct Answer
B. Affects how the laws are interpreted.Explanation
The political ideology of a president appointee is important because it affects how the laws are interpreted. The appointee's political beliefs and values shape their understanding of the Constitution and legal principles, influencing their interpretation of laws and their decision-making process. This can have significant implications for the outcomes of court cases, as different interpretations can lead to different rulings. Therefore, understanding the political ideology of a president appointee is crucial in predicting their stance on legal issues and the impact they may have on the judicial system.Rate this question:
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- 17.
All of the following statements pertaining to the presidential veto are true EXCEPT
- A.
Congress overrides fewer than ten percent of presidential vetoes
- B.
A vetoed bill is often revised and passed in another form
- C.
Presidents often threaten to veto bills to increase their leverage with Congress
- D.
A President may veto part of a bill
- E.
Congress often places provisions the President wants into a bill the President dislikes to amek a veto less likely
Correct Answer
D. A President may veto part of a billExplanation
Presidents have the power to veto an entire bill, but they do not have the authority to veto only a part of it. This means that the statement "a President may veto part of a bill" is not true. When a President decides to veto a bill, they reject the entire legislation and it does not become law unless Congress overrides the veto.Rate this question:
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- 18.
Which of the following factors best accounts for the rise of interest groups and the decline of political parties in recent years?
- A.
National parties have become too closely identified with controversial issues
- B.
Court decisions have restricted the political parties' abilities to recruit new members
- C.
It is less expensive to join an interest group than to join a political party
- D.
Interest groups have been more successful in avoiding negative press coverage than have political parties
- E.
Interest groups are better able to articulate specific policy positions than are political parties
Correct Answer
E. Interest groups are better able to articulate specific policy positions than are political partiesExplanation
Interest groups are better able to articulate specific policy positions than political parties. This suggests that interest groups are more effective in clearly communicating their stance on specific issues, which may attract individuals who have strong opinions on those issues. In contrast, political parties are often associated with a broader range of policies and may not be as effective in clearly articulating their positions on specific policies. This could lead to a decline in political party membership and an increase in interest group membership.Rate this question:
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- 19.
Of the following, which group voted most heavily Democratic in presidential elections between 1964 and 1992?
- A.
Mexican Americans
- B.
Chinese Americans
- C.
Jewish Americans
- D.
Black Americans
- E.
Roman Catholic Americans
Correct Answer
D. Black AmericansExplanation
Black Americans voted most heavily Democratic in presidential elections between 1964 and 1992. This can be attributed to a variety of factors, including the Democratic Party's support for civil rights and social welfare programs that were important to the African American community. Additionally, the Republican Party's opposition to civil rights legislation during this time further solidified the Democratic Party as the preferred choice for Black Americans.Rate this question:
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- 20.
In trying to influence legislation, the President is generally more successful than congressional leaders in
- A.
Using the legislative schedule to political advantage
- B.
Enforcing the party discipline
- C.
Satisfying interest group demands for access to the policy process
- D.
Effectively using formal parliamentary powers rather than persuasion
- E.
Using the media to set the policy agenda
Correct Answer
E. Using the media to set the policy agendaExplanation
The President is generally more successful than congressional leaders in using the media to set the policy agenda. The President has a larger platform and can use their position to command media attention and shape public opinion. By utilizing the media effectively, the President can set the policy agenda and influence legislation by framing the issues and garnering public support for their agenda. Congressional leaders, on the other hand, may have less media exposure and therefore have less ability to set the policy agenda in the same way.Rate this question:
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- 21.
The Office of Management and Budget has the primary responsibility for doing which of the following?
- A.
Implementing federal unemployment policy
- B.
Preparing the budget
- C.
Auditing the budget
- D.
Appropriating funds for the budget
- E.
Approving the budget
Correct Answer
B. Preparing the budgetExplanation
The Office of Management and Budget is responsible for preparing the budget. This means that they are in charge of creating the proposed budget for the federal government. They gather information from various agencies and departments to determine the funding needs and priorities for the upcoming fiscal year. This involves analyzing spending patterns, evaluating program effectiveness, and making recommendations for allocations of funds. Ultimately, their goal is to create a comprehensive budget that aligns with the administration's policies and priorities.Rate this question:
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- 22.
The Freedom of Information Act was designed primarily to give
- A.
Congress access to information from citizens
- B.
Police access to information from criminal suspects
- C.
The courts access to information from reporters
- D.
Citizens access to information from the executive branch
- E.
Congress access to information from the executive branch
Correct Answer
D. Citizens access to information from the executive branchExplanation
The correct answer is citizens access to information from the executive branch. The Freedom of Information Act was enacted to provide the general public with the right to access information held by the federal government. It allows citizens to request and obtain records, documents, and other information from the executive branch of the government. This promotes transparency, accountability, and ensures that citizens have the necessary information to participate in the democratic process.Rate this question:
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- 23.
Which of the following is true of the electoral college system?
- A.
It encourages the emergence of third parties
- B.
It encourages candidates to concentrate their campaigns in competitive, populous states
- C.
It ensures that the votes of all citizens count equally in selecting the President
- D.
It requires that a candidate win a minimum of 26 states to obtain a majority in the college
- E.
It tends to make presidential elections appear closer than they really are
Correct Answer
B. It encourages candidates to concentrate their campaigns in competitive, populous statesExplanation
The electoral college system encourages candidates to concentrate their campaigns in competitive, populous states because the number of electoral votes a state receives is based on its population. Candidates focus their efforts on states with a large number of electoral votes in order to maximize their chances of winning the presidency. This strategy allows them to target the states where they have the best chance of gaining the most electoral votes and ultimately winning the election.Rate this question:
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- 24.
Elections for the House of Representatives provide
- A.
Approximately equal representation for every voter
- B.
An equal chance of getting elected for both incumbents and challengers
- C.
A system in which only those candidates who receive a majority of the votes cast win on the first ballot
- D.
Proportional representation based on the percentage of votes cast for each party
- E.
Proportional representation of racial and ethnic minorities
Correct Answer
A. Approximately equal representation for every voterExplanation
Elections for the House of Representatives provide approximately equal representation for every voter because each voter has the opportunity to elect a representative who will represent their interests and concerns in the government. This ensures that each voter's voice is heard and that their vote carries equal weight in the democratic process. This system aims to prevent any particular group or individual from having disproportionate influence over the legislative body.Rate this question:
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- 25.
In contrast to revenue sharing, categorical grants-in-aid provide state and local governments with
- A.
Substantial discretion in deciding how to use the grants to solve their problems
- B.
Aid that reflects tax base and population
- C.
The power to impose regressive taxes
- D.
Funds sufficient to support a high level of local service
- E.
Funds to administer programs clearly specified by the federal government
Correct Answer
E. Funds to administer programs clearly specified by the federal governmentExplanation
Categorical grants-in-aid provide state and local governments with funds to administer programs clearly specified by the federal government. This means that the federal government determines how the funds should be used and for what specific programs. State and local governments do not have discretion in deciding how to use the grants, as they are required to allocate the funds towards the programs outlined by the federal government. This allows for more centralized control and coordination of programs at the federal level.Rate this question:
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- 26.
Which of the following is empowered to create new federal courts and specify the number of judges who will sit on them?
- A.
The Supreme Court
- B.
Congress
- C.
The President
- D.
The Department of Justice
- E.
The attorney general
Correct Answer
B. CongressExplanation
Congress is empowered to create new federal courts and specify the number of judges who will sit on them. This power is granted to Congress by the Constitution, specifically in Article III, Section 1, which states that "The judicial Power of the United States, shall be vested in one supreme Court, and in such inferior Courts as the Congress may from time to time ordain and establish." Therefore, it is Congress, not the Supreme Court, the President, the Department of Justice, or the attorney general, that has the authority to create new federal courts and determine the number of judges on those courts.Rate this question:
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- 27.
The war Powers Resolution (1973) was designed to
- A.
Allow the Joint Chief of Staff to advise the President during periods of conflict
- B.
Allow Congress to suspend certain civil liberties during times of war
- C.
Require a congressional declaration of war before allowing military forces to be used overseas
- D.
Assure congressional involvement in decisions committing military forces in hostile situations overseas
- E.
Ensure funding for military operations lasting more than 60 days
Correct Answer
D. Assure congressional involvement in decisions committing military forces in hostile situations overseasExplanation
The correct answer is to assure congressional involvement in decisions committing military forces in hostile situations overseas. The War Powers Resolution was enacted to address concerns about the President's power to commit military forces without congressional approval. It requires the President to consult with Congress before introducing armed forces into hostilities or situations where hostilities are imminent. This ensures that Congress has a role in the decision-making process and helps to maintain the balance of power between the executive and legislative branches of government.Rate this question:
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- 28.
The primary reason for the current existence of only two major political parties in the United States is that
- A.
The Constitution puts severe restrictions on other parties
- B.
Third parties are usually far to the right or left, and Americans are moderates
- C.
A winner0take-all electoral system makes it difficult for new parties to emerge and survive
- D.
Voters naturally think of themselves as either liberals or conservatives
- E.
Presidential electors can vote for only two candidates
Correct Answer
C. A winner0take-all electoral system makes it difficult for new parties to emerge and surviveExplanation
The correct answer is that a winner-take-all electoral system makes it difficult for new parties to emerge and survive. This is because in a winner-take-all system, the candidate who receives the most votes wins the entire election, while the other candidates receive nothing. This discourages the formation of new parties as they are unlikely to win elections and gain representation. It also leads to strategic voting, where voters may feel compelled to vote for one of the two major parties in order to prevent the candidate they dislike the most from winning. This further solidifies the dominance of the two major parties.Rate this question:
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- 29.
An interest group would likely have the greatest influence on policy matters involving
- A.
Narrow issues, only a few interest groups, and technical information
- B.
Broad, highly visible national issues
- C.
Broad foreign policy issues
- D.
Major constitutional questions about civil rights and liberties
- E.
Areas in which members of Congress have considerable expertise and commitment
Correct Answer
A. Narrow issues, only a few interest groups, and technical informationExplanation
An interest group would likely have the greatest influence on policy matters involving narrow issues, only a few interest groups, and technical information because in these cases, the interest group can focus their efforts and resources on a specific topic, allowing them to have a more targeted and specialized approach. Additionally, with only a few interest groups involved, there is less competition and potential for conflicting interests, making it easier for the group to have a significant impact. Lastly, technical information can provide the interest group with expertise and credibility, enhancing their influence on the policy-making process.Rate this question:
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- 30.
Which of the following has the most influence on the outcome of a congressional election?
- A.
Local performance of a candidate's party in the presidential race
- B.
A candidate's incumbency status
- C.
The amount of a candidate's campaign spending relative to that of his or her opponent
- D.
The level of support from local party leaders
- E.
The level of voter turnout
Correct Answer
B. A candidate's incumbency statusExplanation
A candidate's incumbency status refers to whether they are currently holding the office they are running for. Incumbents have a significant advantage in congressional elections because they already have name recognition, a track record, and established relationships with constituents and interest groups. They also have access to resources and funding that can help them run a successful campaign. Therefore, a candidate's incumbency status is likely to have the most influence on the outcome of a congressional election compared to other factors listed.Rate this question:
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- 31.
Which of the following is an accurate statement about the voter turnout rate in the United States?
- A.
It is high because of the large numbers of elective offices
- B.
It is significantly higher among men than among women
- C.
It is lower than in most other Western democracies
- D.
It increased sharply when eighteen year olds were given the right to vote
- E.
It has been steady over the last 30 years
Correct Answer
C. It is lower than in most other Western democraciesExplanation
The correct answer is "it is lower than in most other Western democracies." This statement suggests that the voter turnout rate in the United States is comparatively lower than the voter turnout rates in other Western democracies. This could be due to various factors such as voter apathy, lack of trust in the political system, or barriers to voting such as voter registration requirements.Rate this question:
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- 32.
Which of the following is true of independent regulatory agencies?
- A.
They tend to have larger budgets than cabinet departments
- B.
They are directly supervised by cabinet departments
- C.
They provide a product or service directly to the public
- D.
They are insulated from contact with interest groups
- E.
They tend to be freer from presidential control than are cabinet departments
Correct Answer
E. They tend to be freer from presidential control than are cabinet departmentsExplanation
Independent regulatory agencies are typically established to regulate specific industries or sectors, such as the Federal Communications Commission or the Securities and Exchange Commission. Unlike cabinet departments, which are directly accountable to the president, independent regulatory agencies are designed to be more independent and autonomous. This is to ensure that their decisions are based on expertise and not influenced by political considerations. Therefore, they have more freedom from presidential control compared to cabinet departments.Rate this question:
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- 33.
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?
- A.
Judiciary
- B.
Agriculture
- C.
Rules
- D.
Foreign Affairs
- E.
Science and Technology
Correct Answer
B. AgricultureExplanation
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 an agricultural state, and by joining this committee, the representative would have the opportunity to directly address the needs and concerns of their constituents who rely on agriculture for their livelihoods. This committee would provide the representative with the chance to advocate for policies that support and promote the agricultural industry in North Dakota, thus maximizing opportunities for constituent service.Rate this question:
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- 34.
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
- A.
Incumbency
- B.
Personal wealth
- C.
Previous political offices held in the district
- D.
Membership in the political party of the President
- E.
Positions on key social issues
Correct Answer
A. IncumbencyExplanation
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 challengers, as they are already in a position of power and have established name recognition among constituents. Incumbents often have access to greater resources, such as campaign funds and staff, which can further enhance their chances of winning reelection. Additionally, incumbents may have built relationships with key stakeholders and have a track record of accomplishments that they can highlight during their campaign.Rate this question:
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- 35.
The power of the Rules Committee in the House of Representatives rests on its authority to
- A.
Choose the chairs of other standing committees and issue rules for the selection of subcommittee chairs
- B.
Initiate all spending legislation and hold budget hearings
- C.
Place a bill on the legislative calendar, limit time for debate, and determine the type of amendments allowed
- D.
Determine the procedures by which nominations by the President will be approved by the House
- E.
Choose the President if no candidate wins a majority in the electoral college
Correct Answer
C. Place a bill on the legislative calendar, limit time for debate, and determine the type of amendments allowedExplanation
The power of the Rules Committee in the House of Representatives rests on its authority to place a bill on the legislative calendar, limit time for debate, and determine the type of amendments allowed. This means that the committee has the ability to control the flow of legislation in the House, deciding when bills will be considered, how much time will be allocated for debate, and what types of amendments can be proposed. This gives the Rules Committee significant influence over the legislative process and allows it to shape the outcome of proposed legislation.Rate this question:
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- 36.
The activities of the Federal Reserve Board have the most direct influence on
- A.
Bank interest rates
- B.
Government spending
- C.
Oil prices
- D.
Troop-strength levels of the armed services
- E.
Availability of scarce minerals
Correct Answer
A. Bank interest ratesExplanation
The Federal Reserve Board is responsible for setting and implementing monetary policy in the United States. One of the key tools they use is the manipulation of interest rates. By adjusting the federal funds rate, which is the rate at which banks lend to each other, the Federal Reserve can influence the overall level of interest rates in the economy. This, in turn, affects borrowing costs for individuals and businesses, which has a direct impact on bank interest rates. Therefore, the activities of the Federal Reserve Board have the most direct influence on bank interest rates.Rate this question:
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- 37.
Which of the following activities of American labor unions is recognized by law?
- A.
Engaging in strikes
- B.
Denying the public access to a business
- C.
Refusing a subpoena to appear before an investigative committee of Congress
- D.
Disobeying a court injunction to return to work
- E.
Requiring members to make political contributions
Correct Answer
A. Engaging in strikesExplanation
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 better working conditions, wages, and benefits for their members. Strikes are protected under the National Labor Relations Act (NLRA), which grants employees the right to engage in concerted activities for the purpose of collective bargaining or other mutual aid or protection. This means that labor unions can lawfully strike to exert pressure on employers during labor disputes.Rate this question:
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- 38.
Which of the following best describes the relationship between socioeconomic status and participates in politics?
- A.
The lower one's socioeconomic statues, the more likely it is that one will run for public office
- B.
The higher one's socioeconomic status, the greater the probability of active involvement in the political process
- C.
Adults who are unemployed have a greater personal interest in policy and tend to participate more actively in politics than do employed adults
- D.
People in the lower middle class are the most likely to participate in politics
- E.
There is no relationship between socioeconomic status and political participation
Correct Answer
B. The higher one's socioeconomic status, the greater the probability of active involvement in the political processExplanation
The answer suggests that individuals with a higher socioeconomic status are more likely to actively participate in the political process. This implies that factors such as wealth, education, and social standing can influence one's level of engagement in politics.Rate this question:
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- 39.
"Pork barrel" legislation helps the reelection chances of a member of Congress because such legislation
- A.
Gives the member of Congress national standing and coverage on national television news
- B.
Helps earn the member of congress a reputation for service to his or her district
- C.
Attracts campaign contributions from ideological political action committees (PAC's)
- D.
Prevents other candidates from claiming that the member of Congress is too liberal for his or her district
- E.
Requires the member of Congress to travel extensively
Correct Answer
B. Helps earn the member of congress a reputation for service to his or her districtExplanation
The correct answer is "helps earn the member of congress a reputation for service to his or her district." Pork barrel legislation refers to the allocation of government spending for localized projects that primarily benefit the constituents of a particular member of Congress. By securing funding for projects in their district, the member of Congress can demonstrate their dedication to serving their constituents and improving their community. This can enhance their reputation and increase their chances of being reelected.Rate this question:
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- 40.
Most of the bills introduced in the House and the Senate are then
- A.
Passed by one chamber but not the other
- B.
Passed by both chambers but vetoed by the President
- C.
Referred to committee but never sent to the full Congress
- D.
Voted down during the amendment stage of the floor debate
- E.
Killed in the Rules Committee
Correct Answer
C. Referred to committee but never sent to the full CongressExplanation
This answer suggests that most bills introduced in the House and the Senate are referred to a committee for further review and consideration. However, they are never sent to the full Congress for a vote or further action. This implies that the majority of bills do not progress beyond the committee stage and do not become law.Rate this question:
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- 41.
A President may persuade recalcitrant members of Congress to vote for a particular bill by
- A.
Having members who oppose the bill transferred to unpopular committees
- B.
Denying campaign funds to members who oppose the bill
- C.
Threatening to deny renomination to members who oppose the bill
- D.
Threatening to item veto part of a different bill that enjoys bipartisan support in Congress
- E.
Making a direct appeal to the public through the mass media
Correct Answer
E. Making a direct appeal to the public through the mass mediaExplanation
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, explaining the importance and benefits of the bill. By doing so, the President can generate public support and pressure on members of Congress, which may sway their votes in favor of the bill. This approach leverages the power of public opinion to influence the decision-making of lawmakers.Rate this question:
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- 42.
In general, independent regulatory commissions are created primarily for the purpose of
- A.
Supporting and helping cabinet-level departments
- B.
Proposing policy alternatives during periods of crisis
- C.
Regulating the activities of other bureaucratic agencies to ensure that they act in a fair and objective manner
- D.
Regulating certain industries to protect the public interest
- E.
Increasing the President's patronage powers
Correct Answer
D. Regulating certain industries to protect the public interestExplanation
Independent regulatory commissions are created primarily for the purpose of regulating certain industries to protect the public interest. These commissions are designed to oversee and regulate industries that have a significant impact on the public, such as telecommunications, energy, transportation, and financial services. They are responsible for ensuring that these industries operate in a fair and objective manner, protecting consumers from monopolistic practices, ensuring safety standards are met, and promoting competition. By regulating these industries, the commissions aim to safeguard the public interest and prevent any potential harm or exploitation.Rate this question:
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- 43.
Invocation of the War Powers Act of 1973 would be most important in determining which of the following?
- A.
The nature of the commitment of United States Marines to a peace-keeping role in Lebanon
- B.
The amount of financial aid to the Contras of Nicaragua
- C.
The timing of naval maneuvers off the coast of Libya
- D.
The appointment of the Joint Chiefs of Staff
- E.
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 LebanonExplanation
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 the act requires the President to notify Congress within 48 hours of deploying armed forces and to withdraw them within 60 days unless Congress authorizes their continued presence. In the case of the Marines in Lebanon, the act would determine whether their deployment falls under the scope of the act and whether Congress approves of their continued presence.Rate this question:
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- 44.
All of the following are commonly used by interest groups to influence the political process EXCEPT
- A.
Lobbying
- B.
Contributing money to candidates
- C.
Nominating candidates
- D.
Filling lawsuits
- E.
Appealing to public opinion
Correct Answer
C. Nominating candidatesExplanation
Interest groups commonly use lobbying, contributing money to candidates, filling lawsuits, and appealing to public opinion to influence the political process. However, nominating candidates is not typically a method used by interest groups. Nominating candidates is usually done by political parties or individuals within the party. Interest groups may support or endorse candidates, but they do not typically have the power to directly nominate candidates themselves.Rate this question:
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- 45.
Cabinet departments differ from independent regulatory agencies in which of the following ways?
- A.
The President can use an executive order to create a cabinet department but not to create an independent regulatory agency
- B.
The President can dismiss cabinet officers, but not commissioners of independent regulatory agencies
- C.
The President seeks appointees who reflect administration views in making cabinet appointments but not in making appointments to independent regulatory agencies
- D.
Through the appropriations process, Congress can exert control over the cabinet departments but not over independent regulatory agencies
- E.
The courts can overrule regulations issued by cabinet departments, but not those issued by independent regulatory agencies
Correct Answer
B. The President can dismiss cabinet officers, but not commissioners of independent regulatory agenciesExplanation
Cabinet departments and independent regulatory agencies differ in terms of the President's power to dismiss their officers. The President has the authority to dismiss cabinet officers, but does not have the same power over commissioners of independent regulatory agencies. This means that the President has more control over cabinet departments, as they can be easily removed if necessary, while commissioners of independent regulatory agencies have more independence and are not as easily dismissed by the President.Rate this question:
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B
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D
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