lesson 2
How many members currently serve in the House of Representatives?
435
Which power allows Congress to create federal courts and define federal crimes?
Judicial Powers
Which article of the Constitution allows Congress to propose amendments?
Article V
What is the first action taken on the opening day of the House of Representatives?
The House elects its Speaker
Which of the following best describes a filibuster?
A tactic to delay a vote by speaking for an extended time
What is the main purpose of the Reapportionment Act of 1929?
To set a permanent size for the House of Representatives
What is the War Powers Resolution?
A law limiting the President's ability to commit troops to combat without congressional approval
What is one purpose of Congress's investigative power?
To oversee the operations of various executive agencies
Who traditionally administers the oath of office to the Speaker of the House?
The Dean of the House
What percentage of bills introduced in Congress typically become law?
Less than 10%
What is gerrymandering?
The drawing of district lines to favor a particular party
Which type of powers does Congress have that are explicitly granted by the Constitution?
Expressed Powers
Which of the following best describes a Strict Constructionist's viewpoint?
Arguing for a narrow interpretation of the Constitution's provisions
What role does the President of the Senate primarily hold?
The Vice President of the United States
What is the function of a discharge petition?
To allow members to bring a bill out of committee after a specified time
What are the formal qualifications to become a senator?
There is 3
Be at least 30 years old, a U.S. citizen for 9 years, and a state resident
What was the outcome of the Supreme Court case Gibbons v. Ogden (1824)?
The federal government has exclusive power to regulate interstate commerce
What is the Necessary and Proper Clause?
A clause that grants Congress the power to make laws necessary for executing its powers
What is the purpose of a party caucus in Congress?
To discuss party organization and leadership selection
What is a rider in legislative terms?
An unrelated provision added to a bill to ensure its passage
Which case established the principle of "one person, one vote" in congressional districts?
Wesberry v. Sanders
What is one limitation on Congress's power to tax?
Direct taxes must be apportioned among the States
What was a significant outcome of McCulloch v. Maryland (1819)?
It upheld the concept of implied powers for Congress
What is the primary responsibility of the House Rules Committee?
To control the flow of bills to the House floor
What options does the President have when receiving a bill from Congress?
Sign it, veto it, allow it to become law without signing, or pocket veto