Congress and the Executive Branch Review

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts related to the structure and functions of Congress and the Executive Branch of the U.S. government.

Enumerated Powers

Specific powers granted to Congress as outlined in the Constitution.

Implied Powers

Powers not explicitly stated in the Constitution but inferred from the enumerated powers.

Checks and Balances

System that ensures no one branch of government becomes too powerful, allowing each branch to limit the powers of the others.

Bicameralism

The division of a legislature into two separate assemblies or chambers.

Descriptive Representation

A type of political representation where legislators share demographic characteristics with their constituents.

Substantive Representation

A type of political representation where legislators advocate for the interests and needs of their constituents.

Congressional Oversight

The power of Congress to supervise or monitor the actions of the executive branch.

Speaker of the House

The presiding officer in the House of Representatives, chosen by the majority party.

Filibuster

A tactic used in the Senate to delay or block legislative action, usually by giving long speeches.

Gerrymandering

The practice of manipulating electoral district boundaries to favor one party over another.

Iron Triangle

The stable, mutually beneficial relationship among congressional committees, bureaucratic agencies, and interest groups.

Executive Orders

Directives issued by the President that manage the operations of the federal government.

Bully Pulpit

A platform provided to the President to promote their agenda through public appeal.

Judicial Review

The ability of the courts to examine and invalidate laws or executive actions that are contrary to the Constitution.

War Powers Act

Legislation that limits the President's ability to engage U.S. forces without congressional approval.

Veto Power

The President's authority to reject legislation passed by Congress.

Necessary and Proper Clause

Allows Congress to make laws deemed necessary and proper to carry out its enumerated powers.

Executive Agreements

International agreements made by the President that do not require Senate approval.

Lobbying

The act of attempting to influence decisions made by government officials, typically legislators or members of regulatory agencies.

Pardon Power

The President's authority to forgive or excuse someone from legal consequences.

Retention Elections

Elections that allow voters to decide whether to keep a judge in office.

Discretionary Authority

The power of bureaucratic agencies to make choices concerning the best way to implement policies.