Foundational Docs
Which document lays out natural rights and the social contract?
The Declaration of Independence
What case established judicial review?
Marbury v. Madison (1803)
Which branch declares war?
The Legislative Branch (Congress)
What is political socialization?
The process by which individuals develop their political beliefs and values.
How many senators per state?
Two.
What document argues for a large republic to control factions?
Federalist No. 10
What was the outcome of Tinker v. Des Moines?
Students have First Amendment rights at school as long as their speech is not disruptive.
What is the supremacy clause?
The Constitution and federal laws take precedence over state laws.
What's the difference between open and closed primaries?
Open primaries allow any voter to participate regardless of party; closed primaries are only for registered party members
What does the War Powers Resolution do?
Limits the president’s ability to deploy troops without congressional approval after 60 days.
What does Brutus No. 1 argue against?
A strong central government; it argues for states’ rights and warns against the dangers of a large republic.
Which case limited Congress's power under the commerce clause?
United States v. Lopez (1995)
Give an example of checks and balances in action.
The president can veto a bill passed by Congress; the Senate confirms judicial appointments.
What role do PACs and Super PACs play in elections?
They raise and spend money to influence elections; Super PACs can spend unlimited amounts independently.
How can Congress check the bureaucracy?
Through oversight, budget control, and hearings.
What key idea does Fed 51 promote about government structure?
Separation of powers and checks and balances to prevent tyranny.
What precedent did Shaw v. Reno set regarding redistricting?
Racial gerrymandering is unconstitutional when race is the predominant factor without a compelling reason.
Define dual vs. cooperative federalism.
Dual federalism = clear division of powers; Cooperative federalism = overlapping roles, working together
How do linkage institutions connect people to government?
Through media, political parties, elections, and interest groups.
What’s the difference between judicial restraint and judicial activism?
Judicial restraint = courts defer to the constitution; judicial activism = courts take an active role in policy.
Compare the views of Fed 70 and Fed 78.
Federalist 70 argues for a single strong executive (President); Federalist 78 supports judicial review and argues for an independent judiciary.
How did Citizens United v. FEC change campaign finance?
It allowed unlimited independent political expenditures by corporations and unions, citing free speech.
Explain the significance of the Necessary and Proper Clause.
It gives Congress implied powers to carry out its enumerated powers.
Describe the voter turnout trend in midterm vs. presidential elections and why it matters.
Turnout is lower in midterms, which often favors more ideologically motivated voters, impacting congressional control.
Explain the iron triangle and give an example.
A policy-making relationship between congressional committees, bureaucracies, and interest groups.
Example: Dept. of Defense, defense contractors, and the Armed Services Committee.