U.S. Congress: Structure, Powers, and Representation Models Quiz 2.1-2.3

AP Gov Unit 2 Quiz

What does the Senate represent?

The Senate represents the states equally — each state has two senators regardless of population.

What does the House of Representatives represent?

The House represents the people, with the number of representatives based on each state's population.

Which chamber is more strict with its rules?

The House is more strict because it has 435 members and needs structured debate rules to manage time and maintain order.

How do Term lengths impact each chamber in congress?

House members serve 2-year terms (more responsive to public opinion); Senators serve 6-year terms (more stable and deliberate).

What Enumerated powers allow Congress to make laws?

Powers like taxing, spending, declaring war, and regulating interstate commerce (Article I, Section 8 of the Constitution).

Who leads the House of Representatives?

The Speaker of the House.

Where do all revenue (tax) bills originate?

In the House of Representatives.

What is a Filibuster? Why is it used?

A filibuster is a tactic used in the Senate to delay or block a vote on a bill by extending debate — often used by the minority party.

What is the difference between Mandatory vs Discretionary spending?

Mandatory: required by law (e.g., Social Security, Medicare). Discretionary: decided annually by Congress (e.g., defense, education).

What is Pork-barrel legislation and its impact?

When legislators add funding for local projects to gain support or favor from constituents — can help re-election but often increases spending.

What is the Trustee model of representation?

Representatives use their own judgment to make decisions they believe are best for their constituents.

What is the Delegate model of representation

Representatives vote directly according to their constituents' wishes.

What is the Politico model of representation?

A mix of trustee and delegate models — representatives balance their own judgment with constituents' opinions depending on the issue.

How do elections processes, and divided government influence congressional behavior?

Elections pressure members to please voters; partisanship increases gridlock; divided government can slow policymaking due to party conflicts.