Political System Basics
Who is the head of government in Germany?
The Chancellor
Who elects the German Chancellor?
The Bundestag
How many votes does a German voter cast in federal elections?
Two votes
How many dominant parties are there in the U.S.
Two
What is the main law that regulates Germany’s political system?
The Basic Law(Grundgesetz)
How often often are Bundestag elections held in Germany?
Every four years
Which vote determines the party seat allocation in the Bundestag?
The second vote (party vote)
Name one major German party.
Examples: CDU/CSU, SPD, Greens, FDP, Left Party.
What type of democracy does Germany have, where the parliament play the central role?
Parliamentary democracy
What is the maximum number of terms a U.S. president can serve?
Two terms
What is the “winner takes it all” rule in the U.S. presidential elections?
The candidate with the most votes in a state gets all that state’s electoral votes
What is the threshold for a party to enter the Bundestag?
5 percent of the national vote.
In which system is the president head of state and government , as in the USA?
The Presidential system
Can the German Chancellor be removed from office before the end of their term?
Yes, through a constructive vote for no confidence in the Bundestag.
How does proportional representation affect smaller parties in Germany?
It allows smaller parties to gain seats if they pass the 5% threshold.
Why is Germany considered a multi-party system?
Because multiple parties can win seats and influence government formation.
How does the separation of powers work in both Germany and the USA?
Power is divided among legislative, executive, and judicial branches.
How do U.S. citizens influence the selection of presidential candidates before the general election?
Through primary elections in each state.
What is the main benefit of Germany’s proportional system?
Seats reflect the percentage of votes, giving smaller parties a chance.
Why do smaller parties rarely win in the U.S.?
Because the majority system favors the two main parties.