Final exam for political science

Age requirements for U.S. congress

Age requirements for U.S. congress

To be a member of the House of Representatives, you must be at least 25 years old. For the Senate, the minimum age requirement is 30 years old. These requirements ensure that individuals have reached a certain level of maturity and life experience before taking on the responsibilities of serving in Congress.

Articles of confederation

Did not want to replace King George with another centralized power. It was what established the function of early government 

Bill passage requirements

if the bill receives a majority vote from the senate, law begins as an idea. First, a representative sponsons a bill. The bill is then assigned to a committee for study. If released by the committee, the bill is put on a calendar to be voted on, debated or amended.  If the bill passes by simple majority (218of 435), the bill moves to the senate. 

Committee staff roles in congress

supporting the work of legislative committees. They assist members of Congress in conducting research, drafting legislation, organizing hearings, and managing committee operations. Committee staff members often have expertise in specific policy areas and provide valuable insights and analysis to help inform decision-making. They work closely with lawmakers to develop and refine legislative proposals, gather information from stakeholders, and ensure that the committee's work is efficient and effective. Their contributions are vital to the legislative process and help lawmakers make informed decisions on important issues.

Conference committee

A temporary committee formed to bargain over the differences in the house and senate versions of a bill. members are usually appointed from the house and senate standing committees that originally worked on the bill. 

Cooperative federalism

 The situation in which the national, state, and local levels work together to solve problems

Critical thinking

involves deciding what can reasonably be believed and then using the information to reach a thoughtful conclusion 

Dissenting opinion

The opinion of a justice in a supreme court case that explains his or her reasons for disagreeing with the majority's decisions 

Dual Federalism

 A doctrine based on the idea that a precise separation of national power and state power is both possible and desirable

Election Priorities in the House

Members of the U.S. house of representatives serve two year terms, all 435 house seats are up for election every midterm and presidential election year. common priorities include, economy and jobs, healthcare, education, infrastructure, social issues, and criminal justice reform.

Federal system

Power to the national government, sovereignty is shared by the national government and the states

Grants of power

 The method of limiting the U.S. government by confining its scope of authority to those powers expressly granted in the constitution 

Inalienable Rights

Those rights that persons theoretically possessed in the state of nature, prior to the formation of governments. These rights, including those of life, liberty, and property, are considered inherent and as such inalienable. Since government is established by people, government have the responsibility to preserve these rights 

Income and Voting Patterns

interconnected in various ways. People's income levels and economic circumstances can influence their voting preferences and choices. For example, individuals with higher incomes might prioritize economic policies that promote business growth and lower taxes, while those with lower incomes might prioritize policies that address income inequality and provide social welfare programs. However, it's important to note that voting patterns are not solely determined by income. Other factors, such as education, race, gender, and personal beliefs, also play significant roles in shaping voting behavior. So, while income can be a contributing factor, it's just one piece of the puzzle when it comes to understanding voting patterns.

Intrastate Commerce

so the state can set their own taxes on goods and other stuff

refers to the buying and selling of goods, services, or resources that occur within the boundaries of a single state. It involves economic transactions that take place exclusively within one state, without crossing state lines. This can include local businesses selling products or services to residents within the same state, as well as any other economic activities that are confined to a specific state's jurisdiction. It's like when a local Texas business sells its products to customers within Texas.

Judge Selection Methods

In the United States, judges are typically selected through one of the following methods:1. Appointment: In this method, judges are appointed by the executive branch (such as the President at the federal level or the Governor at the state level) with the advice and consent of the legislative body (such as the Senate). This method is commonly used in the federal judiciary and some state courts.2. Election: In some jurisdictions, judges are elected by the public. This can be done through partisan or non-partisan elections, where candidates campaign for the position and the public votes for their preferred candidate. This method is used for some state courts and local judicial positions.3. Merit Selection: Also known as the "Missouri Plan," this method combines elements of appointment and election. A nominating commission recommends a list of qualified candidates to the appointing authority (such as the Governor), who then selects a judge from the list. After a certain period, the judge may face a retention election where voters decide whether to retain or remove the judge from office.The selection method can vary depending on the country and its legal system. Each method has its own advantages and disadvantages, and the goal is to ensure a fair and impartial judiciary. 🏛👨‍⚖🗳

Judicial Precedent

, also known as case law or stare decisis, is a cornerstone of common law legal systems. It refers to the principle that courts should follow the decisions made in previous legal cases which are similar in facts and legal issues. (They case that sets the term for future cases that are similar )

Legislative Committees

are groups of members of Congress who are responsible for reviewing and analyzing bills and other legislative matters. These committees are organized in both the House of Representatives and the Senate. They are divided based on specific areas of expertise, such as finance, foreign affairs, judiciary, and more. Each committee focuses on a particular policy area and plays a crucial role in shaping and refining legislation. They conduct hearings, gather information, and make recommendations or amendments to bills before they are voted on by the full chamber. Committees are an important part of the legislative process, ensuring that bills receive thorough examination and consideration.

Legislative Steps for a Bill

in the United States typically involve several stages:1. Introduction: A member of Congress introduces a bill in either the House of Representatives or the Senate.2. Committee Review: The bill is assigned to a relevant committee, where it undergoes a thorough review and analysis. The committee may hold hearings, gather expert opinions, and make amendments to the bill.3. Floor Action: If the bill passes the committee stage, it moves to the floor of the respective chamber for debate, amendments, and voting.4. Chamber Vote: Members of the House or Senate vote on the bill. If it passes one chamber, it moves to the other for a similar process.5. Conference Committee: If both chambers pass different versions of the bill, a conference committee is formed to reconcile the differences and create a single, unified version.6. Final Vote: The revised bill is presented to both chambers for a final vote. If it passes, it moves to the President.7. Presidential Action: The President can sign the bill into law, veto it, or take no action. If vetoed, Congress can attempt to override the veto with a two-thirds majority vote in both chambers.And that's the general legislative process for a bill to become a law in the United States! It's quite a journey!

McCulloch v. Maryland

was a landmark Supreme Court case in 1819 that dealt with the issue of federal power versus state power. In this case, the state of Maryland had imposed a tax on the Second Bank of the United States, a federal institution. The bank's cashier, James McCulloch, refused to pay the tax, leading to a legal dispute. The Supreme Court ultimately ruled that the state of Maryland did not have the power to tax a federal institution, establishing the principle of federal supremacy. This case had significant implications for the balance of power between the federal government and the states. It's an important case in American constitutional law!

Media Influence

influence from the media

Media Landscape

 the online environment in which people communicate and obtain information, news and entertainment 

Nationalist View of Federalism

emphasizes a strong central government with more power and authority. It supports a centralized approach to governance and believes that a unified nation is essential for stability and progress.

One-party Democratic Dominance

refers to a political system where a single political party has a long-standing and dominant control over the government and the political landscape. In this system, the ruling party often holds a significant majority in the legislative body and maintains its power through multiple election cycles. This dominance can have both advantages and disadvantages, as it can provide stability and continuity, but it can also limit political competition and diversity of ideas.

Power (Political)

The ability of persons or institutions to control policy 

President's Desired Qualities

often include strong leadership skills, integrity, intelligence, communication skills, and a deep understanding of law and government. People also look for someone who can make tough decisions and has a vision for the country's future.

Presidential Advisory Units

are groups of experts and advisors who provide guidance and recommendations to the President of the United States on various issues. These units can cover a wide range of topics, such as national security, economic policy, healthcare, and more. They assist the President in making informed decisions by providing expertise, analysis, and different perspectives. Their role is to help the President navigate complex challenges and ensure that policies are well-informed and effective. It's like having a team of knowledgeable advisors to support the President's decision-making process

Presidential Diplomatic Role

refers to the responsibilities and activities of the President of the United States in conducting foreign relations. It involves representing the country on the global stage, engaging in diplomatic negotiations, and building relationships with leaders from other nations. The President plays a crucial role in shaping foreign policy, promoting peace, and advancing the interests of the United States in the international community. It's a challenging and important aspect of the President's job

Primary Socializing Agents -

are the influential entities in a person's life that play a significant role in shaping their socialization and development. These agents typically include family, peers, schools, and the media. They are the primary sources through which individuals learn societal norms, values, and behaviors. These agents have a profound impact on a person's social, emotional, and cognitive development from an early age. It's fascinating how our interactions with these agents shape who we become as individuals

Public Opinion and Government Action

The politically relevant opinions held by ordinary citizens that they express openly. 

Removal Powers of the Texas Governor

allow them to remove certain appointed officials from their positions. The Governor has the authority to remove individuals from boards, commissions, and other state agencies, subject to certain legal requirements and procedures. This power helps ensure accountability and effective governance in the state of Texas.

Representation in Congress

refers to the idea that elected officials in the United States Congress, such as members of the House of Representatives and the Senate, represent the interests and concerns of their constituents. They act as a voice for the people they represent, making decisions and voting on legislation that affects their communities. It's an important aspect of democracy, ensuring that citizens have a say in the lawmaking process.

Sunset Advisory Commission

Checking state agencies to see if they are still needed

Supreme Court Justices' Influences

they help keep checks and balances, they solve specific court cases, hold a balance of power between congress and the presidents 

Tenth Amendment

The powers not delegated to the united states by the constitution, nor prohibited by it to the states, are reserved to the states respectively, or to the people 

Texas Constitution

 Establishes the structure and purpose of the texas government 

Texas Legislature Powers

 The duties include consideration of proposed laws and resolutions, considerations of proposed constitutional amendments for submissions to the voters, and appropriation of all funds for the operation of state governments 

Texas Legislature Turnover

the effects of redistricting , low pay, and personal costs of running for office 

U.S. House and Senate Membership

refers to the individuals who hold seats in the United States House of Representatives and the United States Senate, respectively. The House of Representatives is made up of members who represent specific districts within each state, while the Senate has two members from each state. These elected officials are responsible for making laws and representing the interests of their constituents.

Yellow journalism

Increased circulation and profits, is based upon sensationalism and crude exaggeration