AP U.S. Government Unit 2: Policymaking Institutions (Congress & Presidency)

These flashcards summarize key terms and concepts related to the policymaking institutions in the U.S. government, specifically focusing on the Congress and Presidency.

Bicameral

A legislative body having two branches or chambers.

House of Representatives

The lower chamber of Congress where representation is based on state population; has 435 members.

Senate

The upper chamber of Congress where each state has two representatives, totaling 100 senators.

Constituents

The voters or residents in a legislative district.

Coalition

An alliance of political groups pursuing a common goal.

Incumbent

The current holder of an office.

Cloture

A Senate procedure to end a filibuster requiring a supermajority vote of 60 senators.

Filibuster

A tactic used by senators to block a vote on a bill by engaging in prolonged debate.

Committee of the Whole

A committee comprising all House members; used to consider details of a proposal.

Logrolling

The practice of exchanging political favors, especially vote trading.

Pork Barrel Legislation

The appropriation of government spending for localized projects to bring money to a representative's district.

Impeachment

The process by which a legislative body levels charges against a government official.

Trustee

A member of Congress who considers constituents' views but uses their own judgment to decide how to vote.

Delegate

A member of Congress who acts strictly according to the wishes of their constituents.

Politico

A member of Congress who acts as a delegate on issues that their constituents care about, and as a trustee on those they do not.

Judicial Review

The power of the Supreme Court to determine the constitutionality of acts of Congress and the executive.

Executive Order

An order issued by the president that has the force of law.

Pocket Veto

An indirect veto by taking no action on a bill for ten days while Congress is adjourned.

State of the Union Address

An annual address by the president to Congress, outlining the legislative agenda and national priorities.

War Powers Act

A law limiting the president's ability to deploy military forces without congressional approval.

Discharge Petition

A House procedure to bring a bill out of committee for consideration.

Supermajority

A majority that is greater than 50%, often required to make certain legislative decisions.

Rider

An additional provision added to a bill that is not directly related to its main topic.

Executive Agreement

An international agreement made by the president without Senate approval.

Cabinet

A group of presidential advisers, including the heads of executive departments.

Veto

The president's constitutional right to reject a bill passed by Congress.