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Electoral College

A system established by the US Constitution for electing the President and Vice President through electors from each state.

Members of Congress

Elected representatives who serve in the US Senate and House of Representatives.

Impeachment

A process by which a government official can be removed from office for misconduct.

Filibuster

A procedural tactic in the Senate to delay or block legislation, typically by extending debate.

Census

A systematic counting of the population, conducted every ten years to determine representation.

12th Amendment

Established the procedure for electing the President and Vice President, ensuring separate votes.

22nd Amendment

Limits the President to two terms in office.

25th Amendment

Establishes procedures for presidential succession and dealing with presidential disabilities.

Redistricting

The process of redrawing district boundaries to reflect population changes.

Gerrymandering

The manipulation of electoral district boundaries to favor a particular political party.

Power structure in Congress

Refers to the hierarchy and organization within the legislative body, including parties and leadership roles.

Roles and Types of Committees

Committees in Congress perform tasks such as reviewing legislation, conducting hearings, and overseeing federal agencies.

Presidential Powers

Constitutionally granted abilities of the President, including vetoing bills and issuing executive orders.

Vetoes

The President's power to reject legislation passed by Congress.

Executive orders

Directives issued by the President that manage the operations of the federal government.

Succession

The order in which officials are to assume the presidency in the event that the President is unable to serve.

Power of clemency/pardon

The President's authority to forgive or reduce the penalties for federal offenses.

Commander in Chief

The President's role as the supreme leader of the military forces.

War Powers Resolution

A federal law intended to check the President's power to commit the U.S. to an armed conflict without Congress's consent.

Appointments

The President's responsibility to nominate individuals to various federal positions, including judges and cabinet members.

Judicial Branch

The branch of government responsible for interpreting the law and administering justice.

Origins of authority and structure in the Judicial Branch

Established by the Constitution, defining the role and limits of the judiciary.

Basics of the court system

Includes various levels of courts like local, state, and federal courts that handle different types of cases.

What is the Electoral College used for?

To elect the President and Vice President of the United States.

How many electors does a state have in the Electoral College?

Equal to its total number of Senators and Representatives in Congress.

What happens when a candidate wins the majority of popular votes in a state?

They typically receive all of that state's electoral votes in a winner-takes-all system.

What is the process of impeachment initiated by?

The House of Representatives, which has the sole power to impeach.

What is the required vote in the Senate to start the impeachment process?

A simple majority.

What does not necessarily have to be included in impeachment charges?

Breaking the law.

Who serves as the judge in impeachment trials?

The Chief Justice of the Supreme Court.

What happens to an official after being impeached?

They are not automatically removed from office without a trial.

What does the Senate do after voting to impeach?

Conducts a trial to determine whether to remove the official.

How does gerrymandering affect electoral outcomes?

It can skew representation by drawing district lines to favor a specific political party.

What does the War Powers Resolution require from the President?

To consult with Congress before engaging in military action.

What is the main purpose of redistricting?

To ensure equal representation based on population changes.

What does the 22nd Amendment limit?

The number of terms a President can serve.

What authority does the President have regarding clemency?

The ability to grant pardons or reprieves for federal offenses.

What does a filibuster allow senators to do?

Extend debate to delay or block legislation.

What is the foundational document that establishes the role of the Judicial Branch?

The United States Constitution.

How are members of Congress elected?

Through direct elections by the citizens of their respective states.

What is required for a successful impeachment in the House?

A majority vote of the House members.

What is a major power of the Judicial Branch?

Interpreting laws and deciding on their constitutionality.