Executive Branch
This type of veto occurs when the President neither signs nor vetoes a bill, and Congress adjourns within 10 days
Pocket Veto
What is the power of the courts to determine the constitutionality of laws and executive actions
Judicial Review
Congress is what kind of structure
The 1803 case established the principle of judicial review.
Marbury v. Madison
The clause in the Constitution that makes federal law superior to state law.
The Supremacy Clause
This power allows the President to withhold information from Congress or the courts for national security reasons, though it is not absolute
Executive privilege
What is the power of the Supreme Court to hear cases for the first time, rather than on appeal
original jurisdiction
A process in which the legislative branch charges a public official for misconduct usually resulting in removal from their set office/standing
Impeachment
The 1819 case upheld the federal government's implied powers under the Necessary and Proper Clause
McCulloch v. Maryland.
The clause that says Congress can make laws about trade between states.
The Commerce Clause.
The President can issue these directives to federal agencies to implement or interpret laws, often bypassing Congress
Executive orders
What is the power of the Supreme Court to decide which cases it will hear, granting only a small fraction of petitions
rule of 4/ writ of certiorari/ certiorari power
The 1954 case that ruled racial segregation in public schools unconstitutional
Brown v. Board of Education
Constitutionally granted authorities/powers given to each branch of government
Formal Powers
What is the name of the president's role to act as the symbolic leader of the nation, representing the U.S. at ceremonies and events
Head of State
What is the power of the courts to issue orders requiring government officials or entities to take specific actions
Writs of mandamus
The term for the process of redrawing congressional district boundaries
Redistricting
This 1995 case limited Congress’s power under the Commerce Clause
United States v. Lopez
Powers explicitly granted to the federal government (declare war, regulate commerce)
Enumerated Powers
What is it called when the President uses a platform to shape public opinion and advocate for policies, often through speeches and media appearances
Bully pulpit
The term for a court decision that establishes a rule or principle for future cases
Precedent/ stare decisis
This 1993 case ruled that redistricting based solely on race is unconstitutional
Shaw v. Reno
Power to declare laws or executive actions unconstitutional
Judicial Review