gov b4 spring break

Class Structure and Announcements

  • Class Start and Schedule

    • Instructor acknowledges a late start.

    • Objective: Finish discussion on the executive branch.

    • Reminder: Next class (March 5, Thursday) will not be held online due to the second exam.

  • Exams and Recordings

    • An additional recording will be made to prepare for the second exam.

    • The recording will cover review materials concerning orders.

    • Students can expect this recording by tonight or tomorrow.

  • Media Project Details

    • Due Date: March 5 before midnight.

    • Clarification on media project presentations:

    • Presentations will occur on March 9 and April 14, not on the exam date.

    • Each student must present their project for a grade.

    • Presentations can earn extra credit (10 points) related to the boards and exam grade.

Media Project Instructions

  • Project Focus

    • Students should analyze a specific issue that they want the Texas government to address.

    • Examples of potential topics include:

    • Transportation

    • Education (e.g., bilingual education)

    • Criminal justice system

    • Students should narrow down their topics to allow for in-depth coverage.

    • Key questions to consider:

    • What action do you want the Texas government to take?

    • What is the budgetary consideration?

    • Is funding necessary for public schools in relation to this issue?

  • Project Presentation Guidelines

    • Students must teach their peers about their chosen topic, ensuring all submissions are distinct.

    • Resources for the project:

    • A minimum of four sources is required.

    • If a presentation is made, it must be a slide deck with at least 15 slides.

    • Alternate formats include podcasts or radio shows lasting 3-5 minutes.

  • Presentation Formats

    • Various media formats are acceptable:

    • Mock newspapers, magazines, websites, blogs, documentaries, etc.

    • Encouragement for creativity and innovation in project format.

  • Past Student Work

    • Examples of past work are available on Blackboard under the resources section.

    • Inquiry from a student about accessing past student examples was noted, and guidance on navigating Blackboard was provided.

Current Events Discussion

  • Iran and U.S. Relations

    • Reference to President Trump’s statement regarding military actions against Iran:

    • Intensity of the situation has escalated, with implications for national security and nuclear concerns.

    • Discussion on Iran’s potential nuclear capabilities (e.g., 20% uranium enrichment).

    • Impact of these events on the internal stability in Iran, with concerns about potential civil unrest or a revolutionary war.

  • War Powers Act Overview

    • History: Established by Congress in 1973 under President Nixon.

    • Power of the President as Commander in Chief to act without prior Congressional approval for 48 hours.

    • Post 48 hours, the President must inform Congress, but guidelines for this communication are vague.

    • Informing the "Gang of Eight" refers to sharing information with key congressional leaders.

    • Ethical concerns regarding military actions and funding implications highlighted:

    • Legislative power to approve or deny funding for military actions.

Texas Government Structure

  • State Board of Education

    • Connection between education and power within the Texas governmental structure.

    • Noteworthy discussion on different curricula and educational content and local complexities.

  • Governorship and Appointments

    • The Governor has appointive powers which include up to 3,000 appointments needed.

    • Example shared regarding an encounter with former governor Rick Perry.

The Iron Triangle Concept

  • Definition

    • The Iron Triangle refers to the stable relationships and mutually beneficial policy-making dynamics among:

    • Congressional committees

    • Executive agencies

    • Interest groups.

  • Implications

    • The legislative branch proposes legislation that the executive must enforce.

    • The interplay often leads to policy that may not serve the citizens effectively.

  • The Sunset Process

    • In Texas, agencies undergo a review every 12 years, which can result in reforms or dissolution.

  • Revolving Door Dynamics

    • Former legislators or public servants often transition to lobbying or private sector roles, influencing policy for vested interests.

Judicial System Overview

  • Court Structure

    • Types of Courts:

    • Municipal courts for city ordinances.

    • County courts dealing with simple cases.

    • District courts handling larger disputes (up to $100,000).

    • Appeal courts and their processes discussed (14 courts in Texas).

    • Explanation of civil matters involving disputes over contracts or custody.

  • Significant Case Example

    • Overview of the 2015 Waco shooting involving two biker gangs and law enforcement, illustrating the high stakes of judicial decisions.

  • Docket Management

    • The extensive nature of the court schedules and the implication for accessible justice.

Additional Resources and Communication

  • An extra recording will be available to aid exam preparation.

  • Students encouraged to ask questions and share insights during classes.

  • Consistent reminders to review the syllabus and past student work for project examples and guidelines on Blackboard.