Executive Branch
What are the three main powers of the President?
Enforce laws, veto bills, and serve as Commander-in-Chief.
Where do money-related bills originate: the House or the Senate?
The House of Representatives.
What is the term length of a Supreme Court Justice?
Lifetime, unless they resign, retire, or are impeached.
Why are elections held on the first Tuesday after the first Monday in November?
To allow farmers to travel to polling places without interfering with market days or religious observances.
What did Amendment 21 repeal?
The 18th Amendment, which had established Prohibition.
What are the requirements to be President?
Must be at least 35 years old, a natural-born citizen, and have lived in the U.S. for at least 14 years.
What is the "elastic clause," and why is it important?
It allows Congress to pass "necessary and proper" laws to carry out its powers.
What case gave the Supreme Court the power of judicial review?
Marbury v. Madison (1803).
What is the minimum number of electoral votes a state can have?
3 (based on 2 Senators + at least 1 Representative).
What are the Three Civil War/Reconstruction amendments?
Amendments 13 (abolished slavery), 14 (citizenship rights), and 15 (voting rights regardless of race).
What is the President's annual salary?
$400,000
Which chamber of Congress starts the impeachment process?
The House of Representatives
Which level of courts hears more cases per year: state or federal?
State courts.
What is the "magic number" of electoral votes needed to become President?
270 electoral votes
Why is the 20th Amendment called the "Lame Duck Amendment?"
It shortened the time between election and inauguration, reducing the "lame duck" period.
What is the State of the Union address, and how often is it given?
A speech given by the President to Congress every year to outline policies and priorities.
What are some specific powers of the Senate?
Approving treaties, confirming presidential appointments, and conducting impeachment trials.
Who approves Supreme Court Justice nominees?
The Senate
What are some pros and cons of the Electoral College?
Pros: Preserves state influence, prevents urban dominance.
Cons: It can result in a president winning without the popular vote, which gives disproportionate power to smaller states.
How many times has the Constitution been amended?
27 times
Who decides the presidency if no candidate wins the Electoral College?
The House of Representatives.
How many total members are in Congress?
535 (? in Senate/ ? in House)
What are the first ten amendments called?
The Bill of Rights.
What is the maximum number of years a President can serve?
8 years
Can an employer drug test you without a warrant?
Yes, private employers can drug test employees without a warrant, but government employers must follow Fourth Amendment protections.