legislative endgame and vetos

What is the role of a conference committee in the legislative process?

To resolve differences between House and Senate versions of a bill and create a single, unified version.

What is "ping-ponging" in the context of the legislative process?

When a bill is sent back and forth between the House and Senate until both chambers agree on an identical version.

How do motions to instruct conferees influence conference committees?

They direct conferees on how to resolve differences, essentially guiding the committee's approach to compromise.

True/False: Conference committees are open to the public.

True

What is a presidential veto?

A formal refusal by the President to sign a bill into law, returning it to Congress with objections.

What happens if the President does not act on a bill within 10 days while Congress is in session?

The bill becomes law without the President’s signature.

What is a "pocket veto"?

A veto that occurs if the President does not sign a bill into law within 10 days and Congress has adjourned, effectively preventing the bill from becoming law.

How can Congress override a presidential veto?

By passing the bill again with a ⅔ majority vote in both the House and Senate.

What is "veto baiting"?

When Congress passes a bill knowing the President is likely to veto it, to create a clear party divide or score political points.

True/False: Presidents typically use veto threats to shape legislation before a bill reaches their desk

True

What role do vetoes play in shaping party differences in Congress?

Vetoes serve as a clear sign of party conflict, often highlighting policy disagreements between the President and Congress.

When are vetoes most likely to occur?

Vetoes are more common during divided party control, when the President and Congress are controlled by different parties

Why might Congress pass a bill they know will be vetoed?

To signal a clear party stance on an issue or to position the President as opposed to popular legislation.

What factors influence whether a President will veto a bill?

The extent of disagreement with Congress, political timing (e.g., proximity to elections), and the costs of delay.

True/False: Vetoes usually lead to approval ratings rising for the President.

False. Vetoes often lead to declining approval ratings, especially if they seem politically motivated.

How does veto politics differ in the context of a presidential election year?

Presidents are more likely to use veto threats to influence legislative outcomes and enhance their party's position going into the election.