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Delegate

A legislator who votes based on the preferences of their constituents, acting as a “messenger” for public opinion.

Trustee

A legislator who uses their own judgment and expertise to make decisions, even if it goes against constituents’ wishes.

Partisan

A legislator who prioritizes their political party’s stance when making decisions and voting.

Politico

A legislator who switches between delegate, trustee, and partisan roles depending on the issue.

Conference committees

Temporary joint committees formed to reconcile differences in House and Senate versions of a bill.

Standing committees

Permanent committees in Congress that specialize in specific policy areas and review bills.

Formal presidential powers

Powers listed in the Constitution such as vetoing bills, making treaties, appointing officials, and enforcing laws.

Informal presidential powers

Unwritten powers like executive orders, persuasion, media influence, and agenda setting.

Signing statements

Presidential comments issued when signing a bill, explaining interpretation or parts the president may not enforce.

24th Amendment

Prohibits poll taxes in federal elections.

Federalist 70

Argues for a strong, energetic single executive (president) for accountability and effective leadership.

Original vs appellate jurisdiction

Original hears cases first; appellate reviews lower court decisions.

Iron triangles

Close relationships between Congress, bureaucratic agencies, and interest groups that work together to influence policy.

Discharge petition

A House procedure used to force a bill out of committee and onto the floor for a vote.

War Powers Act

Limits the president’s military power by requiring Congress approval for long-term military engagements.

Congressional oversight

The monitoring of the executive branch and bureaucracy to ensure laws are properly executed.

Incumbent advantages

Benefits of current officeholders like name recognition, fundraising power, media access, and easier reelection.

Pork barrel legislation

Government spending on local projects to benefit a specific district and gain political support.

Judicial activism vs restraint

Activism allows judges to interpret broadly and shape policy; restraint limits judges to strict interpretation.

Originalism

Interpreting the Constitution based on the original meaning at the time it was written.

Living Constitution

The idea that the Constitution should be interpreted based on modern conditions and needs.

Judicial review

The power of courts to declare laws or actions unconstitutional.

Marbury v. Madison

Established judicial review, giving the Supreme Court power to strike down unconstitutional laws.

Federalist 78

Argues the judiciary is the weakest branch and depends on independence and judicial review.

Writ of certiorari

A Supreme Court order agreeing to review a lower court case.

Amicus curiae

“Friend of the court” briefs submitted by outside groups to influence court decisions.

Rule of 4

At least four justices must agree to hear a case for it to be granted certiorari.

Stare decisis

The principle of following legal precedent in court decisions.