Supreme Court
What happens when a Supreme Court justice retires or dies during their term?
Another justice will be appointed
How long is the presidential term?
4 years
What is a "divided government"?
“Divided government” means that one party controls the White House and the other controls both houses of Congress.
What does "party polarization" mean?
“Party polarization” is increased ideological consistency, divisions along party lines, or both.
What is the purpose of interest groups?
Interest groups have a purpose of influencing public policy.
What is the role of the President in appointing a new Supreme Court justice?
The President appoints the justice
How long is the Senators term?
6 years
Today, in 2024, which party controls the White House
Democratic party
What are the advantages of "party polarization?"
The advantages of “party polarization” are that it strengthened party influence in Congress, and the simple features of "party polarization" are beneficial to democracy.
What are the benefits associated with interest groups?
Interest groups pressure the government to change and promotes pluralism.
What is the role of the Senators on the Judiciary Committee in appointing a new Supreme Court justice?
The Senate Judiciary Committee is in charge of considering judicial nominations; (the whole Senate votes on judicial nominations)
How long is the term for a member of House of Representatives?
2 years
Today, in 2024, which party controls the Legislative Branch?
Republican party
What are the disadvantages of "party polarization"?
The disadvantages of “party polarization” is lack of compromise which makes it harder to pass laws and promotes greater number of vacancies in courts and agencies.
What is the cost (disadvantage) associated with interest groups?
U.S. government cannot make serious changes, even if those changes are needed, because competing interest groups prevent the government from governing the country effectively.
What is the role of the key interest groups in Supreme Court?
Key interest groups influence the Supreme Court mainly by filing amicus curiae to present arguments that are in favor of their issues.
How many Senators are there?
100
What are advantages of "divided government"?
It allows the legislation to move at much lower pace as well as it creates a balance of power.
What does "party discipline" mean?
“Party discipline” means the willingness of members within a political party to act together as a cohesive group and thus exhibit collective control over legislative action and follow party policies.
List three strategies that interest groups use to influence the political process.
Any three from below counts:
- Lobbying
- Endorsement
- Campaign
- Volunteers
- Grassroots
- Litigation
What is the role of the Press in Supreme Court?
Providing accurate coverage of the Court, and further encouraging the public's understanding of the Court's function and history.
How many members of House of Representatives are there?
435
What are the disadvantages of "divided government"?
Disadvantages of “divided government” are gridlock and dissatisfaction of constituents.
What is an advantage of "party discipline"?
The advantage of party discipline is that it allows for political parties to maintain control over the total party caucus so that the party’s agenda is prioritized.
Why are interest groups considered to be "linkage institutions?"
Interest groups are considered to be “linkage institutions” because linkage institutions work to get policies passed that favor their group's mission and values which is similar to the purpose of interest groups.