Interactions Among Branches of Government

Flashcards designed to aid in the understanding of the interactions among branches of government based on the lecture notes.

What is the primary purpose of Article I of the Constitution?

It establishes the legislative branch of government, which is bicameral, consisting of the Senate and the House of Representatives.

How many senators does each state have?

Each state gets two senators.

What is the term length for a member of the House of Representatives?

Members of the House serve two-year terms.

What is redistricting?

Redistricting is the redrawing of congressional districts to reflect changes in seats allocated to the states based on population shifts.

What is gerrymandering?

Gerrymandering is the practice of drawing district lines to advantage one group or political party.

What are the two key powers shared by the House and Senate?

The power to make laws and the power to declare war.

What is the role of Congress in overseeing the executive branch?

Congress checks the executive branch to ensure efficiency and legality, controlling bureaucracy through authorizations and appropriations.

What is a trustee in the context of Congressional representation?

A trustee is a representative who uses their own best judgment to make decisions.

What is the main difference in debate rules between the House and Senate?

The House has stricter rules, while the Senate allows for filibusters and relaxed debate.

What is the role of the President pro tempore in the Senate?

The President pro tempore presides over the Senate and is typically the member with the most seniority in the majority party.

What is a filibuster?

A filibuster is a tactic used in the Senate to extend debate on a bill, effectively delaying or preventing a vote.

What does the phrase 'executive power' refer to in Article II of the Constitution?

Executive power refers to the powers granted to the President to enforce laws and manage the executive branch.

What is the main function of independent agencies?

Independent agencies exist outside of the executive branch and operate independently of presidential control.

What is meant by judicial review?

Judicial review is the power of a court to determine if a law or legal issue is unconstitutional.

How are federal judges selected?

Federal judges are nominated by the President and confirmed by the Senate.

What role does the Supreme Court have in the federal court system?

The Supreme Court serves as the highest court in the U.S., with original and appellate jurisdiction.

What is a writ of certiorari?

A writ of certiorari is an order by the Supreme Court to review a lower court's decision.

What is the significance of the rule of four?

The rule of four states that if four justices agree to hear a case, it will be granted certiorari.

What does the term 'stare decisis' mean?

Stare decisis is the legal principle of determining points in litigation according to precedent.

What is a plea bargain?

A plea bargain is an agreement where the defendant pleads guilty to a lesser charge to avoid trial.

What are the steps involved in the federal criminal process?

They include investigation, charging, initial hearing, discovery, plea bargain, and trial.