Chapter 6: Congress

These flashcards cover important vocabulary terms and concepts related to the U.S. Congress as discussed in the lecture notes.

Bicameral legislature

A legislative body composed of two chambers or houses, such as the U.S. Congress, which includes the House of Representatives and the Senate.

Impeachment

The process by which a legislative body, such as the House of Representatives, brings charges against a government official, leading to a trial in the Senate.

Gerrymandering

The intentional manipulation of electoral district boundaries to favor a particular political party or demographic.

Incumbency

The holding of an office or the period during which one is held, often associated with higher chances of re-election.

Logrolling

The practice of exchanging favors, especially in politics, where legislators support each other’s proposed legislation.

Political Action Committees (PACs)

Organizations set up to raise and spend money to elect political candidates, influencing legislation.

Congressional Review

A process that allows Congress to overrule regulations made by federal agencies.

Committee System

The structure of committees within Congress that allows for the organization and processing of legislation.

Judicial review

The power of the courts to assess whether a law is in compliance with the constitution.

Constituents

The residents of a congressional district who are represented by elected officials.