ap gov unit 4

House of Representatives

Bicontinental body composed of 435 members elected to two-year terms, led by the Speaker of the House.

Senate

Bicameral legislative body with 100 members (2 from each state) serving six-year terms, and with the Vice President as President of the Senate.

Coalitions in Congress

Groups of legislators formed based on shared policy goals, party affiliation, or regional interests.

Necessary and Proper Clause

Allows Congress to create laws necessary to implement its powers and to address changing societal challenges.

Filibuster

A prolonged debate in the Senate that is used to delay or block a vote.

Cloture

A procedure for ending debate in the Senate, requiring a 60-vote majority.

Discharge Petition

A mechanism to force a bill out of committee for consideration on the floor.

Gerrymandering

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

Shaw v. Reno

Supreme Court decision ruling that racial gerrymandering violates the Equal Protection Clause.

Lame Duck

A politician who is still in office after having lost a reelection bid or is ineligible to run again.

Trustee

A legislator who uses personal judgment to make decisions.

Delegate

A legislator who acts according to the wishes and interests of their constituents.

Politico

A legislator who balances the interests of their constituents with their own judgment.

Power of the Purse

Congress's authority to control government spending and revenue.

Pocket Veto

Inaction on a bill by the president within 10 days of Congress adjournment, resulting in the bill not becoming law.

Appropriation

Congress's power to allocate funds for government activities.

Committee System

Congress is organized into standing, select, joint, and conference committees to review legislation.

Unanimous Consent

An agreement used to expedite proceedings in Congress without formal votes.

White House Staff

Key advisors and aides who assist the President in executing their agenda.

Cabinet Members

Advisors leading executive departments in the federal government.

Presidential Power

The authority of the President to execute laws, granted by the Constitution and limited by Congress.

Committee Hearings

Sessions where committees gather information and question witnesses regarding government agencies actions.

Investigations

Inquiries conducted to uncover issues or misuse of power within the government.

Reports and Audits

Reviews of government agencies' activities and compliance based on formal assessments.