BRANCHES OF GOVERNMENT
Which branch of Texas government has the authority to impeach state officials?
What is the Legislative Branch?
Which article of the Texas Constitution explicitly outlines individual rights and freedoms?
What is Article 1?
How many members comprise the Texas House of Representatives and the Texas Senate, respectively?
The House has 150 members; the Senate has 31.
What major event in 1876 influenced the drafting of the current Texas Constitution?
The end of Reconstruction and reaction against centralized government.
Define the term “plural executive” as it applies uniquely to Texas government.
It means voters elect multiple executive officials separately, not just the governor.
Name the executive official who presides over the Texas Senate and can influence legislative agenda.
Who is the Lieutenant Governor?
How does the Texas Bill of Rights differ from the U.S. Bill of Rights in protecting citizens?
It provides some additional rights and protections beyond the U.S. Bill of Rights.
In Texas’ plural executive, which elected official is responsible for managing public lands and mineral rights?
Who is the Land Commissioner?
Approximately how many amendments have been added to the Texas Constitution since its adoption?
Over 500 amendments.
What role does the Texas Railroad Commission play in regulating the energy industry?
It regulates oil, natural gas, and pipeline safety.
What specific civil court has final appellate jurisdiction over family law cases in Texas?
What is the Texas Supreme Court (in its civil appellate jurisdiction)?
What constitutional protection ensures Texans cannot be deprived of life, liberty, or property without due process?
What is the Due Process Clause?
Explain why the Texas Secretary of State is unique among executive officials.
The Secretary of State is appointed by the governor, not elected.
Describe the process by which the Texas Constitution can be amended.
Proposal by the Legislature and approval by Texas voters.
Identify the city that served as the capital of the Republic of Texas prior to Houston.
What is Washington-on-the-Brazos?
Which branch is responsible for interpreting the constitutionality of laws in Texas?
What is the Judicial Branch?
Under the Texas Bill of Rights, what restrictions exist on searches and seizures by law enforcement?
Searches require probable cause and proper warrants.
What is the impact of partisan judicial elections on the independence of Texas judges?
Partisan elections can create political pressures that may influence judicial impartiality.
Why is the Texas Constitution significantly longer than the U.S. Constitution?
It includes detailed provisions on many specific issues, unlike the broader U.S. Constitution.
What legal powers does Texas retain from its history as an independent republic?
Texas retains some rights as a former sovereign nation, such as control over its public lands.
How does the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals differ in jurisdiction from the Texas Supreme Court?
The Court of Criminal Appeals handles criminal cases; the Supreme Court handles civil cases.
What is the Texas Constitution’s stance on the right to bear arms compared to the federal constitution?
Texas explicitly protects the right to keep and bear arms, sometimes more broadly than federal protections.
What constitutional requirements must candidates meet to run for governor of Texas?
Must be at least 30 years old, a U.S. citizen, and a resident of Texas for five years.
How do constitutional provisions limit the power of the Texas Legislature?
Through restrictions on spending, taxation, and legislative sessions.
Explain how the Texas Constitution balances state sovereignty with federal law.
By recognizing federal supremacy but reserving powers to the state under the 10th Amendment.