AP UNIT 4 STUDY GUIDE

Chief of Staff

An office inside the EOP that manages the President's schedule and aids in decision-making.

Presidential Disability

Refers to the Vice President’s role in assuming presidential responsibilities if the President is unable to perform duties.

Impeachment Process

A process initiated by the House to impeach a president; the Senate conducts the trial.

Filibuster Rule

A tactic used to delay or block legislation, requiring 60 votes to end.

Demographic Makeup of Congress

Predominantly white, male, and around 50 years old.

Executive Agreement

An agreement between the President and another nation that does not require Senate approval.

Gerrymandering

Drawing district boundaries to favor a political party.

House Rules Committee

Responsible for sending bills to the appropriate committee and scheduling them for debate.

Lawmaking Process

The procedure by which a bill becomes a law, including multiple steps in the House and Senate.

Spoils System

The practice of giving government jobs to political supporters based on connections rather than merit.

Pendleton Civil Service Act

Established that government jobs should be awarded based on merit rather than political affiliation.

Oversight Function of Congress

The ability of Congress to monitor and evaluate the executive branch's actions.

Descriptive Representation

The idea that elected representatives should reflect the demographics of their constituents.

Police Patrol Oversight

A proactive approach by Congress to supervise and monitor executive actions directly.

Fire Alarm Oversight

A reactive approach by Congress, addressing issues as they arise rather than actively monitoring.

Cabinet

The group of advisors to the President, including heads of departments and key officials.

Treaty

A formal agreement between countries that requires Senate approval.

Military Power of the President

The authority of the President to direct military operations and strategy.

Executive Office of the President (EOP)

The office of the President that includes key staff and advisors.

Federal Judges/Justices

Judicial appointments made by the President, confirmed by the Senate.

Senate Confirmation

The process by which the Senate approves the President's appointments to high-level positions.