Checks and Balances
Scenario: Congress passes a budget that cuts funding for the President's key initiative. The President threatens to veto the entire budget, which could lead to a government shutdown. How do checks and balances apply to this situation?
Answer: The president can veto but the congress can override with a 2/3rds vote.
Scenario: Congress passes a healthcare reform bill with 275 votes in the House and 68 votes in the Senate. The President vetoes the bill, calling it "fiscally irresponsible." What options does Congress have, and what would be required to move forward?
Answer: Override the presidential veto with a 2/3rds vote
BONUS QUESTION: What is either Ms.Jankowksi's or Mr. Vangi's favorite color???
Green or Red
Scenario: The President issues an executive order restricting immigration from certain countries. Several states file lawsuits claiming it's unconstitutional. How do the three branches interact in this situation?
Answer: Judicial Review
Situation:
The U.S. Congress passes a bill to increase funding for education. The President disagrees with some provisions in the bill and decides to veto it, preventing it from becoming law.
Explanation:Veto and 2/3rds vote from congress.
Situation:
Congress passes a law that restricts certain freedom of speech rights. A citizen challenges the law, claiming it violates the Constitution. The case goes to the Supreme Court.
Explanation:Judicial Review
Scenario: Congress launches an investigation into potential misconduct by a Cabinet Secretary. The President claims executive privilege and refuses to allow testimony. What constitutional powers are in conflict here?
Answer: Congress can impeach
Scenario: The House of Representatives votes to impeach a federal judge for ethics violations. The Senate trial begins, but some senators argue the charges don't meet the "high crimes and misdemeanors" standard. Analyze the constitutional process and potential outcomes.
Answer: Senate controls impeachments. A two-thirds Senate majority is required for removal. "High crimes and misdemeanors" is interpreted by Congress, not courts. If convicted, the judge is removed; if acquitted, they remain in office.
Scenario: The President sends troops to a foreign country without congressional approval, citing immediate national security threats. Congress demands the troops return within 60 days. What constitutional principles are at stake?
Answer: War Powers Resolution requires presidential notification within 48 hours and congressional authorization within 60 days. Congress can force troop withdrawal through legislation or by cutting funding.
Scenario: Congress launches an investigation into potential misconduct by a Cabinet Secretary. The President claims executive privilege and refuses to allow testimony. What constitutional powers are in conflict here?
Answer: Congress controls impeachment
Scenario: Congress passes a law requiring social media companies to verify user identities. Civil liberties groups challenge it as a violation of free speech. How does the judicial branch's role affect the other branches' work?
Answer: Courts declare laws unconstitutional through judicial review
Scenario: The President declares a national emergency to redirect military construction funds toward border security. Congress passes a resolution to terminate the emergency, but the President vetoes it. What are Congress's options?
Answer: 2/3rds vote by congress
Scenario: The President nominates a controversial Supreme Court justice during an election year. The Senate Judiciary Committee is controlled by the opposition party. What checks and balances come into play, and what are the possible outcomes?
Answer: Congress approves nominees
Scenario: After several controversial Supreme Court decisions, Congress proposes legislation to expand the Court from 9 to 13 justices. The President supports the plan. What constitutional issues arise, and how might each branch respond?
Answer: No action can be taken by the judicial branch.
Scenario: Congress passes a law requiring social media companies to verify user identities. Civil liberties groups challenge it as a violation of free speech. How does the judicial branch's role affect the other branches' work?
Answer: Judicial review