All Flashcards
What are key differences between the House and Senate?
House: Population-based, shorter terms. Senate: Equal representation, longer terms.
Compare House and Senate committee roles.
House: Initial review, legislation refinement. Senate: Long-term view, consensus building.
Compare debate rules in House and Senate.
House: Strict rules, limited debate. Senate: Fewer rules, extended debate (filibuster).
Compare the powers of the Speaker and Senate Majority Leader.
Speaker: Presides, assigns bills. Senate Leader: Sets agenda, influences committee assignments.
Compare regular veto vs. pocket veto.
Regular: President returns bill. Pocket: President does nothing as Congress adjourns.
What is the effect of bicameralism on policymaking?
Causes compromise and prevents hasty decisions.
How does the Power of the Purse affect the executive branch?
Limits executive power by controlling funding.
Define Bicameralism.
A legislative body with two chambers or houses.
What is 'Power of the Purse'?
Congress's control over federal government spending.
Define 'Bill of Attainder'.
Legislative act declaring someone guilty without a trial.
What is an 'Ex Post Facto Law'?
Law that retroactively criminalizes an action.
Define 'Filibuster'.
Senate tactic to delay a vote by prolonged speech.
What is 'Cloture'?
Senate procedure to end a filibuster (60 votes).
Define 'Earmark'.
Provision allocating funds for specific projects.
What is 'Logrolling'?
Trading votes between legislators.
Define 'Pork Barrel Legislation'.
Using funds for local projects to please constituents.
What is a 'Pocket Veto'?
Presidential veto by inaction when Congress adjourns.