AP Government & Politics Ch. 12 GQs

What is the idea behind the fear of tyranny in government?

Balanced power between branches to prevent authoritarian rule.

What does Legislative Primacy relate to in the context of U.S. government?

It made Congress the key policymaking body.

What system helps limit both executive and legislative power?

Checks and Balances.

What does a Bicameral Legislature consist of?

The House (population-based) and Senate (equal state representation).

Why do House members serve shorter terms?

To stay accountable to voters.

How is the Senate designed to contribute to governance?

For more experienced, stable governance.

Where do revenue bills originate according to taxation power?

In the House to reflect public interests.

What role does the Senate play in foreign policy?

Power over treaties and major decisions.

What is meant by Republican Principles in government?

Ensured responsiveness to the people's will.

What is the length of terms for House Representatives?

2 years.

What is the length of terms for Senators?

6 years.

How does the length of Senate terms provide stability?

It insulates from short-term political pressures.

What does staggering elections for Senators ensure?

Only one-third of the Senate changes at a time, preventing drastic shifts.

What is the impact of Institutional Stability in the Senate?

Maintains experienced legislators in office to guide long-term policies.

What does the 17th Amendment change about Senate elections?

Direct Election of Senators, increasing democratic representation.

Why does the 17th Amendment lead to greater accountability for Senators?

It makes Senators more responsive to public opinion.

What is meant by incumbents in politics?

Individuals who currently hold a political office and are running for reelection.

What advantage do incumbents have due to stronger name recognition?

Already known to voters from previous elections and time in office.

How does Easier Access to Media Coverage benefit incumbents?

Media regularly covers incumbents’ activities.

What is redistricting?

The process of redrawing congressional district boundaries within a state.

What is the purpose of reapportionment?

Reallocating seats in the House of Representatives based on population changes.

What can redistricting both help and harm?

It can ensure equal representation or lead to gerrymandering.

What is a major advantage of gerrymandering for political parties?

Creates 'safe seats' making it easier for candidates from that party to win.

What negative impact does a 'safe seat' have on Congress members' actions?

Encourages partisanship and reduces the incentive for moderation.

What recent trend has made compromising in Congress less likely?

Increased political polarization.

What is gridlock in Congress?

Fewer bipartisan efforts leading to legislative stagnation.

Why did the Framers prefer Congress to have more powers than the President?

Fear of a Strong Executive and desire for representation of the people.

Why is the Necessary and Proper Clause significant for Congress?

It allows Congress to pass laws beyond those explicitly listed in the Constitution.

What are the three types of models legislators may follow?

Trustee Model, Instructed Delegate Model, and Politico.

What is a pork barrel project in Congress?

Funds secured for specific projects that benefit a legislator's constituents.

What is Congress’s authority regarding declaring war?

Only Congress can declare war.

What role does oversight play in Congress?

Monitoring and checking the executive branch to ensure laws are implemented.

What is the process of Congressional Hearings?

Government officials, bureaucrats, and interest groups testify on law implementation.

What happens to a bill after it receives a report from a committee?

It is explained before full chamber consideration.

What does the House Rules Committee decide regarding a bill?

Length of debate and scope of amendments allowed.

What is a filibuster?

A procedural tactic in the Senate to delay or prevent a vote.

What is required to end a filibuster?

A cloture vote requiring 60 senators.

What happens during a pocket veto?

The president takes no action on a bill for 10 days while Congress is adjourned.

Who presides over House sessions?

The Speaker of the House.

What is the role of the House Majority Leader?

Assists the Speaker in planning and implementing the legislative agenda.

Who is the current Senate Majority Leader?

Mitch McConnell (R-KY).

What practice involves lawmakers exchanging political favors?

Logrolling.

What influence do interest groups have on elections?

They endorse candidates and mobilize members to vote.

What role does the president have regarding Congress?

They advocate for or against legislation they wish to influence.

Which movement prompted increased female candidates in Congress?

The #MeToo movement and protests against sexual harassment.

In what year did Latinos gain significant representation in Congress?

What trend was observed regarding African American representation in Congress?

It reached historic highs with each election since the civil rights movement.

What utility do earmarks serve in congressional bills?

They designate specific projects or funds, benefiting a legislator's district.

What is the importance of the conference committee?

It reconciles differences between House and Senate versions of a bill.

What does the term constituency refer to?

The group of constituents that a legislator represents.

What indicates a bill is formally introduced in Congress?

The bill is placed in the Hopper.

How does a discharge petition function in Congress?

218 members can force a bill out of committee for a floor vote.

What is meant by 'Nuclear Option' in the Senate?

Allows certain actions to pass with a simple majority instead of 60 votes.