Congress Structure
What is the term length for a member of the House?
2 years
What are powers that are directly mentioned in the Constitution called? Example: Raise an army
What is Gerrymandering?
The practice of drawing political boundaries to give one party an advantage over another
What is the "Delegate Role" of lawmakers?
Lawmakers vote based on the wishes of their constituents.
A presidents rejection of a bill
Veto
How many senators does each state have?
2 senators
What clause allows Congress to exercise implied powers?
The Necessary and Proper Clause/Elastic Clause
(McCulloch v. Maryland)
What is Packing?
Concentrating as many voters of one type into a single district
How do political parties influence voting behavior in Congress?
Lawmakers often vote with their party, reflecting shared political outlooks.
A proposed law is called what?
A bill
What are the qualifications required to be a senator?
Must be 30 years old, U.S. Citizen for 9 years, and live in the state they represent
What act requires the President to get Congressional approval before committing troops to combat?
The War Powers Act of 1973
What is Cracking?
Splitting up votes of one type across multiple districts to dilute their influence
What is logrolling in the context of Congress?
It is the practice of trading votes among legislators to gain support for their bills or amendments.
What is the main function of Congress?
make laws
What does the term "bicameral" refer to in the context of Congress?
refers to the two-chamber structure of Congress, consisting of the House of Representatives and the Senate
How does Congress influence foreign policy?
By approving treaties, declaring war, and regulating foreign commerce
What legal ruling confirmed that gerrymandering is constitutionally permissible?
Gaffney v. Cummings (1973)
What is "Pork-Barrel Legislation"?
It refers to government spending for localized projects secured primarily to bring money to a representative's district.
How Congress overrides a Presidential Veto?
2/3 majority vote in both houses of Congress
What is the "Franking Privilege" and what is its significance for reelections?
the ability of members of Congress to send mail to constituents free of charge using their signature instead of a stamp
What are Ex Post Facto Laws? Does Congress have this power?
law is a law that punishes or increases the punishment for actions that were legal when they were committed, NO congress does not have power
Why is gerrymandering often viewed as undemocratic?
It empowers politicians to choose their voters, affecting fair representation.
How can Lobbyists influence lawmakers?
By representing interest groups and providing campaign donations through Political Action Committees (PACs). (Direct Communication and Campaign contributions)
What is the Presidents role in a bill becoming a law?
Sign the bill (becomes law), Veto bill (reject), no action (pocket veto)