Separation of Powers and Checks & Balances

These flashcards cover the separation of powers, checks and balances, and the specific roles of the branches of government as outlined in the notes.

What is the purpose of separation of powers in government?

To divide a state's government into branches with separate, independent powers and responsibilities.

What does the system of checks and balances allow each branch of government to do?

Amend or veto acts of another branch to prevent any one branch from having too much power.

What is the primary role of the executive branch of government?

To carry and enforce congress’s policies.

Which branches are included in the separation of powers?

Legislative, Executive, and Judicial branches.

How many members does the House of Representatives have?

435 members.

How many members are in the Senate?

100 members.

What are some powers of the legislative branch?

Pass laws, declare war, ratify treaties, and levy taxes.

Who appoints the Supreme Court justices?

The President appoints them, and they are approved by the Senate.

What is one major responsibility of the Supreme Court?

To hear disputes and interpret laws.

What can the judicial branch declare about laws?

They can declare laws unconstitutional.

What power does the executive branch have regarding laws?

The power to enforce laws.

What is the role of Congress in relation to the President's veto?

Congress can override the President's veto.

What does the Necessary and Proper Clause allow Congress to do?

Make all laws necessary and proper for executing its powers.

What is the general welfare clause?

It gives Congress the power to tax and spend for the common defense and general welfare of the United States.

What is the purpose of the Commerce Clause?

Regulates commerce, foreign and interstate trade.

What is a bicameral legislature?

A two-house legislature, such as the U.S. Congress.

What is the 'Power of the Purse'?

The power to raise revenue, including taxing and budgeting.

What is a filibuster?

A tactic for delaying or obstructing legislation by making long speeches on the Senate floor.

What is Judicial Review?

The power of the court to determine the constitutionality of laws.

What role does the Chief Justice play in the judicial branch?

Presides over impeachment trials.

What are expressed powers?

Powers directly granted to the federal government found in the Constitution.

What are implied powers?

Powers not explicitly stated in the Constitution but derived from the Elastic Clause.

What is the role of the President as Commander in Chief?

Supreme commander of the military forces of the United States.

What is an executive order?

A directive by the President to manage federal government agencies.

What is executive privilege?

The right of the President to maintain confidential communications under certain circumstances.

What does impeachment involve?

Accusing the President or other officials of committing high crimes and misdemeanors.

How does the Senate confirm Presidential appointments?

They confirm Cabinet members and Supreme Court nominees.

What is the term length for a House representative?

2 years.

What qualifications must one meet to be in the Senate?

Must be 30 years old and a U.S. citizen for at least 9 years.

What is the significance of the Supremacy Clause?

Establishes that national law supersedes state law when acting within constitutional limits.

What can Congress do under the Legislative checks on the Executive branch?

Override a presidential veto, pass new amendments, and impeach federal officials.

How does the executive branch influence legislation?

By vetoing or pocket vetoing laws.

What does the judicial branch do regarding presidential acts?

They can declare presidential acts unconstitutional.

What is the role of the Vice President in the Senate?

Breaks tie votes.

What is the role of the Speaker of the House?

De facto leader of the majority party, organizes meetings and debates.

What is the Senate Majority Leader?

The Chief Legislator who has more power than the Vice President in the Senate.

What are the informal powers of the President?

Powers interpreted to achieve policy goals, such as issuing executive orders.

What does the 10th Amendment address?

It reserves powers not granted to the federal government to the states.

What are concurrent powers?

Powers held jointly by the national and state governments.

What is the bureaucratic system in government?

A system of managing government through departments run by appointed officials.

What is the process from bill to law?

An idea is proposed, introduced, debated, passed in both chambers, and sent to the president.

What does the Chief Executive's role involve?

Overseeing the bureaucracy and ensuring laws are executed faithfully.

What is the impact of the Necessary and Proper Clause?

Allows Congress to adapt laws to changing societal needs.