Landmark Cases & Representation
Baker v. Carr established what principle?
One person, one vote
What is a discharge petition used for>
To force a bill out of committee to the House floor
What's the first step after a bill is introduced in Congress?
Sent to committe
What is the primary role of the legislative branch?
To make laws
What does 'advice and consent" mean in the Senate?
Senate approves presidential appointments & treaties
What did the Supreme Court rule in Shaw v. Reno?
Racial gerrymandering is unconstitutional if race is the primary factor.
Name 2 requirements to be a U.S. Senator.
30 years old
U.S. citizen for 9 years
Resident of state
What does the Commerce Clause give congress the power to regulate?
Interstate and foreign trade
What is Congress's oversight power?
To monitor and review executive agencies/programs
What did the 17th Amendment change?
Senators are directly elected by the people of state legislatures
What is the difference between reapportionment and redistricting?
Reapportionment = redistricting House seats among states
Redistricting = redrawing district lines within a state.
What is the trustee model v. model of representatiom?
Trustee = vote using own judgment
Delegate = vote as constituents want
What role does the President play in the lawmaking process?
Can sign a bill into law or veto it
Give an example of how one branch checks another.
President vetoes bill; Senate confirms justices; Court declares law unconstitutional
Name one key difference in rules between in the House and the Senate.
Senate allows filibusters; House has strict time limits