AP Gov Unit 2 Notes

Article II of the Constitution

Defines the powers and responsibilities of the executive branch, which is in charge of enforcing laws.

Head of Political Party

The President helps members of his party get elected, campaigns for their policies, and seeks party support for re-election.

role of the Chief Legislator

Voices ideas to Congress, influences law making, and sets the legislative agenda.

Veto

A formal rejection by the president of a bill that has passed both houses of Congress.

Pocket Veto

An informal veto that occurs when the president does not sign a bill within ten days while Congress is adjourned.

Treaty

An agreement with a foreign government negotiated by the president, requiring a two-thirds vote in the Senate to ratify.

Executive order

Policy directives issued by presidents that do not require congressional approval.

22nd Amendment

It limits the president to two terms in office.

War Powers Act (1973)

It limits the president’s ability to deploy US armed forces without Congressional approval.

State of the Union Address

An annual speech from the president to Congress updating them on the state of national affairs.

Bully Pulpit

Using an influential platform to promote ideas, such as influencing senators or other politicians.

Voting Rights Act of 1965

It aimed to eliminate racial discrimination in voting practices, prohibiting literacy tests and other discriminatory practices.

Political Efficacy

A person’s belief that they can make effective political change.

Electoral College

The constitutionally required process for selecting the president through electors chosen in each state.

Closed Primary and Open Primary

Closed Primary allows only registered party members to vote, while Open Primary allows any voter to participate regardless of party affiliation.

Campaign Finance Reform

Controlling campaign costs and the collecting of donations to guard against possible corruption.

Buckley v. Valeo (1976)

Candidates can contribute as much of their own money as they want in political campaigns.

Investigative Journalism

An approach to newsgathering where reporters dig into stories, often looking for wrongdoing.

Media Consolidation

The concentration of ownership of the media into fewer corporations.

Infotainment

The merging of news and entertainment, pressure to attract audiences.

Partisan Bias

The slanting of political news coverage in support of a particular political party or ideology.