Constitution & Government Basics
What document is the supreme law of the land in the United States?
The Constitution
Who nominates Supreme Court justices?
The President.
What are the two major political parties in the U.S.?
Democratic and Republican
What are the three branches of government?
Legislative, Executive, and Judicial.
Who designed the layout and map of Washington, D.C.?
Pierre Charles L’Enfant
What do we call the first ten amendments to the Constitution?
The Bill of Rights
Who confirms or rejects Supreme Court nominees?
The Senate
How many Electoral College votes are needed to win the presidency?
270
Which branch makes laws?
Legislative Branch (Congress).
Who took over the development of D.C. after L'Enfant walked way from the job.
Benjamin Banneker
What is the main purpose of the U.S. Constitution?
To outline how the government is structured and define citizens’ rights.
How long do Supreme Court justices serve?
For life (or until they retire or are removed).
What is the main difference between a local election and a national election?
Local elections choose city/state officials (like mayors or council members), while national elections choose federal offices (like president or senators).
How can the Judicial Branch “check” the Legislative Branch?
By declaring laws unconstitutional.
Who is most responsible for the selection of D.C.’s location along the Potomac River?
George Washington
What amendment gave Black men the right to vote?
The 15th amendment
After a BA degree Supreme Court Justices' typically seek this type of degree.
What is a Law degree?
What is one major criticism of the Electoral College system?
A candidate can win the presidency without winning the popular vote.
Who is in charge of the executive.
The President
What was one major reason residents of D.C. protested for “Home Rule”?
They wanted local control over their own government rather than decisions made by Congress.
What amendment did Trump try to overturn by kicking out the children of undocumented citizens?
The 14th amendment
What are the two roles a Justice typically holds after Law School?
Clerkships or Teaching
Free Points
500
How can Congress limit the power of the President?
Vetoes, approving appointments (supreme Court Judges), and controlling funding.
What state gave land and then took it way from D.C. Because they thought they weren't being treated equally as the rest of the city?
Virginia