Untitled Flashcards Set

Marbury v. Madison

Established the principle of judicial review in 1803.

Warchest

A stockpile of campaign funds used in political campaigns.

Federal Reserve

The institution that controls U.S. monetary policy.

Medicare

A program that provides health insurance to people over 65.

Discretionary Spending

Spending approved annually by Congress.

Reapportionment

Dividing House seats among states based on population.

Incumbency Advantage

Factors that give an incumbent an advantage in elections, excluding executive orders.

Bully Pulpit

The president's use of position to shape public opinion and agenda.

One Person, One Vote

Established the principle that electoral districts must have roughly equal populations.

Writ of Certiorari

A legal document that a party submits to the Supreme Court requesting a case to be heard.

Judicial Review

The power of the courts to declare laws unconstitutional.

Filibuster

A Senate tactic used to delay or block legislation through extended debate.

Standing Committees

Permanent congressional committees that handle specific areas of legislation.

Executive Orders

Presidential directives that have the force of law.

Federal Budget

The annual plan outlining anticipated government expenditures and revenues.

Social Security

A mandatory spending program that provides retirement, disability, and survivor benefits.

SNAP

A program providing food assistance for low-income individuals.

Casework

The assistance provided by Congress members to their constituents in dealing with government issues.

Redistricting

The process of drawing new legislative district lines within a state.

Agenda-setting

The influence the president has over the priorities of the public and Congress.

Government Corporation

A federal agency that operates like a business.

Equal Protection Clause

Ensures citizens receive equal legal treatment under the law.

Lifetime Appointment

Term descriptor for federal judges, who serve for life unless removed.

Means-Tested Programs

Federal programs that determine eligibility based on financial need.

CBO

Congressional Budget Office, which provides budget and economic information to Congress.

Bureaucracy

The administrative system governing any large institution, including the government.

Interest Rates

The rates at which interest is paid by borrowers for the use of money they borrow.

Mandatory Spending

Government spending that is required by existing law, such as Social Security.

Health Insurance

Coverage that pays for medical and surgical expenses of the insured.

Judicial Confirmations

The process by which the Senate approves presidential judicial appointments.

Political Campaigns

Efforts to influence the decision-making process within a specific group.

Legislative Process

The steps through which a proposed law moves through Congress.

Supreme Court Justices

The nine judges appointed to the highest court in the United States.

Executive Branch

The branch of government responsible for implementing and enforcing laws.

Regulatory Commission

An independent agency established by Congress to regulate specific economic sectors.

Tax Cuts

Reductions in the amount of taxes imposed by the government.

Social Programs

Government initiatives designed to provide support to individuals in need.

Cabinet Departments

Executive departments that advise the president and implement federal policy.

Congressional Oversight

The review, monitoring, and supervision of federal agencies and programs.

Constitutional Amendments

Formal changes or additions to the U.S. Constitution.

Seniors

Individuals aged 65 and older, often considered in health and social policies.

Voting Rights Act of 1965

Legislation aimed at eliminating various forms of voting discrimination.

House of Representatives

The lower chamber of Congress, with representatives serving two-year terms.

Legislation

Laws passed by a governing body, such as Congress.

Senate Confirmation

The process where the Senate approves or denies presidential appointees.

Discretionary Grants

Funds awarded by the government to support specific projects or activities.