All Flashcards
Cause/Effect of divided government?
Cause: Different parties control branches. Effect: Gridlock.
Cause/Effect of gerrymandering?
Cause: State legislatures redraw districts. Effect: Safe seats for incumbents.
Define 'checks and balances'.
System where branches limit each other's power.
What is 'judicial review'?
Courts determine constitutionality of actions.
Define 'gerrymandering'.
Redrawing district lines for party advantage.
What is a 'filibuster'?
Senate delaying tactic; talking a bill to death.
Define 'cloture'.
Vote to end a Senate filibuster (60 votes).
What is 'pork barrel legislation'?
Funding for local projects (earmarks).
Define 'divided government'.
Different parties control executive and legislative branches.
What is the 'bully pulpit'?
President's ability to influence public opinion via media.
Define 'stare decisis'.
Courts follow precedent (previous court decisions).
What is 'judicial restraint'?
Strict interpretation of the Constitution.
Define 'judicial activism'.
Courts protect rights not explicitly in Constitution.
What is 'discretionary authority'?
Bureaucracy's power to decide how to implement laws.
Define 'iron triangles'.
Relationship between committees, agencies, interest groups.
Main idea of Federalist 51?
Advocates checks and balances to control government power.
Main idea of Federalist 70?
Argues for a strong, unitary executive for decisive action.
Main idea of Federalist 78?
Judicial independence through life terms for judges.
What is the role of Congress according to Article I, Section 8?
Enumerated powers: taxing, declaring war, regulating commerce.