AP Gov: Topic 1.6 - Principles of American Government Study Guide

What is the primary purpose of Separation of Powers?

To ensure no single branch of government holds all political authority by dividing powers among three branches.

Which branch of government is responsible for proposing and making laws?

The Legislative branch (House of Representatives and Senate).

What is the primary role of the Executive branch?

To execute and enforce laws passed by the Legislative branch.

What is the main function of the Judicial branch?

To interpret laws and ensure they align with the Constitution.

Define the principle of Checks and Balances.

A system where power is distributed so that each branch of government has specific mechanisms to limit or check the power of the other branches.

What is the Senate's power of "advice and consent"?

A specific checking power that allows the Senate to vote to approve or reject high-level presidential appointments.

Which branch holds the power of impeachment over the president?

The Legislative branch (Congress).

According to Article 2, Section 7 of the Constitution, how can the Executive branch check Congress?

Through the presidential veto.

How can Congress override a presidential veto?

With a two-thirds (2/3) majority vote in both the House and the Senate.

What is judicial review?

The power of the Judicial branch to declare laws passed by Congress unconstitutional.

Is the power of judicial review explicitly written in the U.S. Constitution?

No, it is not explicitly in the Constitution, but it was established very early in U.S. history.

What key concept is argued in Federalist 51?

Separation of powers and checks and balances can control the abuse of power by any one branch.

According to Federalist 51, how should each branch of government operate?

As independently of the others as possible, while retaining the necessary checking powers.

According to Federalist 51, what was considered the chief danger to the flourishing republic?

Investing too much power in one branch above the others.

What is a stakeholder in the U.S. political system?

Anyone with a vested interest in the outcome of policymaking.

How can interest groups use access points in the legislative branch?

They can pay professional lobbyists to meet with representatives, share their causes, and persuade them on votes.

How can average citizens access the legislative branch directly?

By writing letters or sending emails to their representatives.

How can stakeholders utilize access points within bureaucratic agencies (Executive Branch)

They can file complaints with these agencies if a law is being broken or a crime is being committed.

How can stakeholders use the Judicial branch as an access point?

They can use the courts to challenge unjust and unconstitutional laws or appeal wrongful convictions.