CH. 12 AP GOV

Bipartisanship

Cooperation between the two major political parties to work towards common legislative goals.

Caucus

A group of Congress members who meet to discuss and promote specific interests or demographics.

Dominance of Incumbency

A situation in which current officeholders enjoy significant advantages in elections over challengers.

Filibuster

A procedural tactic used in the Senate to delay or block legislative action, often involving prolonged debate.

Framers Intent

The design and purpose behind the Constitution's establishment of Congress as a deliberative body.

Gerrymandering

The manipulation of electoral district boundaries to favor one party over another.

Incumbency

Holding a political office or position and the advantages an incumbent has over challengers in elections.

Legitimacy

The general belief that a government or legislative body has the right to govern or make decisions.

Policies Gridlock

A situation in which progress cannot be made due to conflicting interests, commitments, or partisanship among lawmakers.

Polarization

The growing ideological divide between political parties, leading to increased conflict and reduced bipartisan cooperation.

Public Trust

The level of confidence that citizens have in their government and its officials to act in the public’s interest.

Redistricting

The process of redrawing district boundaries in order to reflect changes in population and demographics, often influencing election outcomes.

Speaker of the House

The leader of the House of Representatives, who has significant control over legislative priorities and procedures.

Standing Committees

Permanent committees in Congress responsible for specific legislative areas that conduct thorough assessments of proposed laws.

Veto

The President's power to reject legislation passed by Congress, an essential check on legislative authority.