Politics In The American States, Part 1
This VERY difficult quiz contains questions regarding the socioeconomic and political context of the 50 states.
Questions and Answers
- 1.
What political party took control of the U.S. House of Representatives after the November 2010 elections?
- A.
Democratic Party
- B.
Republican Party
- C.
Green Party
- D.
Independent
Correct Answer
B. Republican PartyExplanation
After the November 2010 elections, the Republican Party took control of the U.S. House of Representatives. This means that they won the majority of seats in the House and gained control over the legislative agenda and leadership positions. This shift in power from the Democratic Party to the Republican Party indicates a change in the balance of political influence and reflects the outcome of the election.Rate this question:
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- 2.
How many of the 50 states have Republican governors?
- A.
19
- B.
39
- C.
29
- D.
9
Correct Answer
C. 29Explanation
29 out of the 50 states have Republican governors. This means that the majority of states have governors from the Republican party.Rate this question:
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- 3.
The states are currently in the worst financial shape since the Great Depression. What is the primary culprit?
- A.
The increase in student loan debt
- B.
The war on terror
- C.
The national recession that began at the end of 2007
- D.
The dot-com bubble burst in March of 2000
Correct Answer
C. The national recession that began at the end of 2007Explanation
The primary culprit for the states being in the worst financial shape since the Great Depression is the national recession that began at the end of 2007. This recession, also known as the Great Recession, had a significant impact on the economy, leading to job losses, reduced consumer spending, and a decline in tax revenues for the states. The recession caused a ripple effect across various sectors, including housing, finance, and manufacturing, resulting in budget shortfalls and financial difficulties for the states.Rate this question:
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- 4.
In 2006, which state became the first to enact greenhouse gas legislation?
- A.
California
- B.
New York
- C.
Florida
- D.
Texas
Correct Answer
A. CaliforniaExplanation
California became the first state to enact greenhouse gas legislation in 2006. This means that California was the first state to pass a law specifically targeting the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. This legislation demonstrates California's commitment to addressing climate change and taking proactive measures to mitigate its effects.Rate this question:
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- 5.
In 2003, which state became the first to adopt universal health care coverage?
- A.
Massachusetts
- B.
New Hampshire
- C.
Vermont
- D.
Maine
Correct Answer
D. MaineExplanation
Maine became the first state to adopt universal health care coverage in 2003. This means that the state implemented a system where all residents would have access to healthcare services, regardless of their income, employment status, or pre-existing conditions. This decision by Maine aimed to ensure that every individual in the state could receive necessary medical care and treatment.Rate this question:
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- 6.
In 2011, the states were ranked according to their policy liberalism. The state with the most liberal policy agenda (California) was ranked #1, and the state with the most conservative policy agenda (Arkansas) was ranked #50. Out of the following list of states, pick the THREE that rank in the top ten in policy liberalism.
- A.
New York
- B.
Oklahoma
- C.
Connecticut
- D.
Oregon
- E.
Texas
- F.
Indiana
Correct Answer(s)
A. New York
C. Connecticut
D. OregonExplanation
The correct answer is New York, Connecticut, and Oregon. These three states were ranked in the top ten in policy liberalism according to the ranking in 2011.Rate this question:
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- 7.
True or False? The state of California has a higher population than the country of Canada.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
California has a higher population than Canada because California is the most populous state in the United States, with over 39 million residents. In contrast, Canada has a population of around 38 million people, making California's population larger than that of Canada. Therefore, the statement is true.Rate this question:
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- 8.
Which state was the ONLY one that saw their population decline between 2000-2010?
- A.
Nevada
- B.
Ohio
- C.
Texas
- D.
Michigan
Correct Answer
D. MichiganExplanation
Michigan was the only state that saw a decline in its population between 2000-2010. This could be due to various factors such as economic decline, loss of job opportunities, or outmigration. These factors may have led to a decrease in the number of residents in Michigan during that time period.Rate this question:
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- 9.
In the next twenty years, how many "baby boomers" will exit the workforce and become dependent on Medicare and Social Security?
- A.
79 million
- B.
59 million
- C.
39 million
- D.
19 million
Correct Answer
A. 79 millionExplanation
In the next twenty years, a large number of "baby boomers" are expected to retire from the workforce and become dependent on Medicare and Social Security. The correct answer is 79 million, indicating that a significant portion of the population will rely on these programs for support. This suggests that there will be a substantial increase in the number of individuals requiring healthcare and financial assistance from the government in the coming years.Rate this question:
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- 10.
There are currently four states with over 15% of their population over the age of sixty-five. Select those four states.
- A.
Florida
- B.
Maine
- C.
California
- D.
Pennsylvania
- E.
West Virginia
- F.
Nevada
Correct Answer(s)
A. Florida
B. Maine
D. Pennsylvania
E. West VirginiaExplanation
The correct answer is Florida, Maine, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia. These four states have over 15% of their population over the age of sixty-five.Rate this question:
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- 11.
True or False? In 2009, immigrants (both legal and illegal) numbered nearly 37 million, or 11% of the population.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
In 2009, the number of immigrants, including both legal and illegal, was nearly 37 million, which accounted for approximately 11% of the total population.Rate this question:
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- 12.
True or false? The pace of immigration in the United States ROSE rapidly with the onset of the recession in 2007.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. FalseExplanation
The pace of immigration SLOWED, not only because of the recession, but because of enhanced border enforcement, and the passage of stricter state laws that signaled an anti-immigration stance.Rate this question:
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- 13.
Immigrants tend to arrive in six states: California, New York, New Jersey, Florida, Texas, and...
- A.
Arizona
- B.
Illinois
- C.
Michigan
- D.
Ohio
Correct Answer
B. IllinoisExplanation
The given answer, Illinois, is a logical choice for the next state where immigrants tend to arrive. Illinois is a populous state with major cities like Chicago, which attract immigrants due to employment opportunities and cultural diversity. Additionally, Illinois has a strong economy and a history of welcoming immigrants, making it an attractive destination for newcomers.Rate this question:
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- 14.
After entering the country, how long must an immigrant wait to apply for federal welfare and health benefits?
- A.
10 years
- B.
90 days
- C.
1 year
- D.
5 years
Correct Answer
D. 5 yearsExplanation
The correct answer is 5 years because immigrants must wait for this duration before they can apply for federal welfare and health benefits. This waiting period is designed to ensure that immigrants have established themselves in the country and contributed to the economy before accessing these benefits. It allows them time to find stable employment and become self-sufficient, reducing the strain on the welfare system.Rate this question:
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- 15.
In what year is it projected that the total minority population will surpass the majority population (whites) in the United States?
- A.
2042
- B.
2021
- C.
2064
- D.
2083
Correct Answer
A. 2042Explanation
The correct answer is 2042. This is the projected year when the total minority population is expected to surpass the majority population (whites) in the United States. This projection is based on population growth trends and demographic shifts in the country.Rate this question:
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- 16.
In how many states are whites NOT the majority of the population?
- A.
0
- B.
1
- C.
4
- D.
10
Correct Answer
C. 4Explanation
Hawaii, California, New Mexico and TexasRate this question:
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- 17.
True or False? In terms of land area, the state of Alaska is over five times the size of Texas.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. FalseExplanation
Alaska is a little over two times the size of Texas.Rate this question:
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- 18.
Which state is ranked #1 in terms of farm production?
- A.
Nevada
- B.
Iowa
- C.
Pennsylvania
- D.
California
Correct Answer
D. CaliforniaExplanation
California is ranked #1 in terms of farm production because it has a diverse climate and fertile soil that allows for the cultivation of a wide variety of crops. The state also has a large agricultural industry and utilizes advanced farming techniques, such as irrigation and mechanization, to maximize productivity. Additionally, California benefits from a long growing season and favorable growing conditions, which contribute to its high farm production.Rate this question:
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- 19.
Because of the scarcity of fresh water in the South and West, there are often heated political battles over water usage in agriculture, energy projects, and economic development. Since fresh water is so important, one state inscribed the following on its state capitol: "Here is the land where life is written in water." Which state's capitol bears this inscription?
- A.
Michigan
- B.
Colorado
- C.
Minnesota
- D.
California
Correct Answer
B. ColoradoExplanation
The correct answer is Colorado. This is because the question mentions that there are often heated political battles over water usage in the South and West, and Colorado is located in the western part of the United States. Additionally, the state capitol of Colorado is Denver, and it is possible that the inscription mentioned in the question is found on the capitol building in Denver.Rate this question:
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- 20.
Wyoming has no state income tax. Which tax revenue source allows them to afford this by making up 34% of collections?
- A.
The high state sales tax
- B.
Interest from a mineral trust fund and severance taxes on natural gas, coal and oil
- C.
The high property taxes
- D.
The highest corporate tax rate in the country
Correct Answer
B. Interest from a mineral trust fund and severance taxes on natural gas, coal and oilExplanation
Wyoming is able to afford having no state income tax because they rely heavily on revenue from their mineral trust fund and severance taxes on natural gas, coal, and oil. These industries are significant in Wyoming, and the state benefits from the revenue generated through the extraction and sale of these resources. This revenue source makes up 34% of the state's collections, allowing them to forgo a state income tax.Rate this question:
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- 21.
Which state has no income tax OR sales tax, and grants their citizens an annual dividend of over $1000 from revenues recovered by severance taxes on oil and natural gas?
- A.
Montana
- B.
Tennessee
- C.
Alaska
- D.
Texas
Correct Answer
C. AlaskaExplanation
Alaska is the correct answer because it is the only state among the options that has no income tax or sales tax. Additionally, Alaska grants its citizens an annual dividend of over $1000 from revenues recovered by severance taxes on oil and natural gas.Rate this question:
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- 22.
True or false? Texas has the largest economy out of all 50 states with a Gross State Product of $1.9 trillion.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. FalseExplanation
California has the largest economy. Texas is #2 at $1.3 trillion.Rate this question:
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- 23.
Which state has the smallest state economy with a gross state product of $25.6 billion?
- A.
Vermont
- B.
West Virginia
- C.
Michigan
- D.
Mississippi
Correct Answer
A. VermontExplanation
Vermont has the smallest state economy with a gross state product of $25.6 billion.Rate this question:
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- 24.
Mining is the leading industry in three states. Which of the following is NOT one of those states?
- A.
Wyoming
- B.
Alaska
- C.
Montana
- D.
West Virginia
Correct Answer
C. MontanaExplanation
The question asks for the state that is NOT one of the leading industries in mining. The given answer, Montana, is the correct choice because it is not one of the leading states in the mining industry. The other options, Wyoming, Alaska, and West Virginia, are known for their significant mining activities.Rate this question:
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- 25.
The finance and insurance industry is the #1 industry in four states. Choose those four states.
- A.
New York
- B.
Delaware
- C.
California
- D.
South Carolina
- E.
Texas
- F.
Connecticut
Correct Answer(s)
A. New York
B. Delaware
D. South Carolina
F. ConnecticutExplanation
New York and Connecticut are historical financial capitals, and Delaware and South Carolina are business havens because of their favorable regulatory conditions for the banking and insurance industries.Rate this question:
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- 26.
The state of Washington ranks #1 in export-related manufacturing. What is its #1 export?
- A.
Ship manufacturing
- B.
Automobiles
- C.
Seafood
- D.
Boeing aircraft
Correct Answer
D. Boeing aircraftExplanation
The state of Washington ranks #1 in export-related manufacturing, and the #1 export from Washington is Boeing aircraft. Boeing, a multinational corporation based in Washington, is one of the world's largest aerospace manufacturers and a leading producer of commercial airplanes. The company's aircraft are highly sought after globally, contributing significantly to Washington's export industry.Rate this question:
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- 27.
Which state is NOT paired with its #1 export?
- A.
Indiana - passenger vehicles
- B.
Alabama - passenger vehicles
- C.
South Carolina - passenger vehicles
- D.
Kansas - civilian aircraft
Correct Answer
A. Indiana - passenger vehiclesExplanation
Indiana's #1 export is pharmaceuticals and medical devices.Rate this question:
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- 28.
True or false? The state of Texas has such an important economic tie to Mexico, that its newly elected governors often visit Mexico City before Washington, D.C.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
Texas has a significant economic relationship with Mexico, making it important for its newly elected governors to visit Mexico City before Washington, D.C. This suggests that the economic ties between Texas and Mexico are prioritized over political ties with the rest of the United States.Rate this question:
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- 29.
Which state has the highest per capita personal income at $56,001?
- A.
Florida
- B.
Connecticut
- C.
California
- D.
New York
Correct Answer
B. ConnecticutExplanation
Connecticut has the highest per capita personal income at $56,001. This means that on average, individuals in Connecticut earn the highest amount of personal income compared to the other states listed. This could be due to various factors such as a strong economy, high-paying job opportunities, or a higher cost of living in the state.Rate this question:
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- 30.
Which state is ranked last in per capita personal income at $31,186?
- A.
Louisiana
- B.
Kentucky
- C.
Mississippi
- D.
Florida
Correct Answer
C. MississippiExplanation
Mississippi is ranked last in per capita personal income at $31,186. This means that on average, individuals in Mississippi earn the lowest amount of personal income compared to individuals in other states.Rate this question:
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- 31.
In 2004, which state's Supreme Court ruled that its state ban on same-sex marriage violated its constitution?
- A.
Massachusetts
- B.
Rhode Island
- C.
Connecticut
- D.
Oklahoma
Correct Answer
A. MassachusettsExplanation
In 2004, the Supreme Court of Massachusetts ruled that the state's ban on same-sex marriage violated its constitution. This landmark decision made Massachusetts the first state in the United States to legalize same-sex marriage. The court held that denying same-sex couples the right to marry was a violation of equal protection under the law. This ruling set a precedent for other states and played a significant role in the advancement of LGBTQ+ rights in the country.Rate this question:
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- 32.
After the Massachusetts Supreme Court decision ruling that its ban on same-sex marriage was unconstitutional, how many states reacted by defining marriage in their constitution as being between a man and woman, so as to preclude same-sex marriage?
- A.
0
- B.
15
- C.
30
- D.
48
Correct Answer
C. 30Explanation
After the Massachusetts Supreme Court decision ruling that its ban on same-sex marriage was unconstitutional, 30 states reacted by defining marriage in their constitution as being between a man and woman, so as to preclude same-sex marriage.Rate this question:
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- 33.
Which state enacted the nation's first single-payer health care system?
- A.
Massachusetts
- B.
Maine
- C.
Vermont
- D.
California
Correct Answer
C. VermontExplanation
Vermont enacted the nation's first single-payer health care system. This means that the state implemented a healthcare system in which a single public agency is responsible for financing healthcare for all residents, regardless of their income or employment status. This system aims to provide universal healthcare coverage and eliminate the need for private health insurance.Rate this question:
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Mar 28, 2023Quiz Edited by
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Mar 28, 2014Quiz Created by
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