Checks and Balances
How can Congress check the President?
By overriding a veto with a two-thirds vote.
What is the primary job of Congress?
To make laws for the country.
How long is the President's term in office?
4 years.
What is the highest court in the U.S.?
The Supreme Court.
Where in the Constitution is the Preamble located?
At the start.
Explain the principle of majority rule.
Laws are passed by Congress and elections are determined by a majority of votes.
Is Congress elected or appointed?
Elected.
Name two duties of the Executive Branch.
Examples: Carrying out laws, negotiating treaties, proposing new taxes, nominating judges
Who appoints Supreme Court justices?
Appointed by the President, confirmed by the Senate.
Why did the delegates start the Preamble with "We, the People"?
To state that government power comes from the people
What is the definition of separation of powers?
The division of government responsibilities into distinct branches to prevent any one branch from becoming too powerful.
How many members are in the Senate?
100 (2 per state)
What role does the President have in nominating federal judges?
The President nominates federal judges.
How many justices serve on the Supreme Court?
9 justices.
List one purpose of the Preamble.
Examples: Establish justice, ensure domestic tranquility, provide for the common defense, promote the general welfare, secure liberty
What is the definition of checks and balances?
A system that allows each branch of government to limit the powers of the other branches.
How many members are in the House of Representatives?
435 members
What type of citizenship do you need to be President?
Natural born citizen.
How long do Supreme Court justices serve?
For life (or until they retire).
What does "domestic tranquility" mean?
To keep peace and order in our nation
Why did the framers make it difficult to amend the Constitution?
B. They made it difficult, but possible, to change in order to evolve with the times.
What power does the Commerce Clause give Congress?
The power to regulate interstate commerce
What happens if the President vetoes a bill?
Congress can override the veto with a two-thirds vote.
What is the job of the judicial branch?
To interpret laws and resolve disputes.
How does the Preamble promote the general welfare?
It encourages policies that support the well-being of all citizens.