Foundational
Docs
Docs
Formal separation from Britain influenced by Enlightenment ideals
Declaration of Independence
Established the principle of judicial review
Marbury v Madison
Chamber with two year terms
House of Representatives
This Article of the Constitution gives the executive branch its power
SCOTUS’ power to declare federal legislation invalid if it violates the Constitution
Judicial Review
The first Constitution of the U.S. that favored strong state rights and a weak federal government
Articles of Confederation
Established the supremacy of the U.S. Constitution and federal laws over state laws
McCulloch v Maryland
This Article of the Constitution gives the legislative branch its power
Article I
Quasi-Legislative decrees a President can use to chang government policy independent of Congress
Executive Orders
Using position as a judge to make rulings that create changes in gov't policy
Judicial activism
Defines powers and limits of each branch of government through checks and balances
Constitution
Congress may not use the Commerce Clause to make possession of a gun in a school zone a federal crime
US v Lopez
The amount needed in each house to override a presidential veto
2/3rds
Agreement a president makes with another nation that does not require the Senate’s approval
Executive Agreement
Plays a minimal role in policy making by letting elected officials make policy, and follows precedent and Founding Fathers’ intent
Judicial Restraint
Argument against the Constitution that there too many interests and the government will be too powerful
Brutus I
Legislative redistricting must be conscious of race and ensure compliance with the Voting Rights Act of 1965
This house impeaches while this house holds the impeachment trial
House of Representatives impeaches & Senate conducts trial
Refusal to sign a bill if President receives a bill at the end of Congress’ legislative
Pocket Veto
All judges must be approved by this body.
Letter that defends breaking the law through nonviolent protests against racial injustices
Letter from Birmingham Jail
Opened the door to equal protection challenges to redistricting and established the “one person, one vote” doctrine
What is Baker v. Carr?
This vote ends a filibuster in the Senate
Cloture
Presidents have to give Congress notification of the use of military forces within 48 hours & can only deploy personnel 60 days without Congress' approval thanks to
War Powers Act of 1972
Selective Incorporation