Ap Government Test

AP GOVERNMENT REVIEW SET
Study online at https://quizlet.com/_6uls9
1. 10th Amendment Powers not expressly given to federal government by the

Constitution are reserved to states or the people. Also
known as "reserved powers amendment" or "states' rights
amendment"
2. 13th Amendment Abolished slavery. First of three "Reconstruction Amend-

ments" passed after Civil War (1865-70)
3. 14th Amendment (1) All persons born in the U.S. are citizens; (2) no person
can be deprived of life, liberty or property without DUE
PROCESS OF LAW; (3) no state can deprive a person
of EQUAL PROTECTION of the laws. Second of three
"Reconstruction Amendments" passed after Civil War.
4. 15th Amendment States cannot deny any person the right to vote because
of race. Third of three "Reconstruction Amendments"
passed after Civil War. First Voting Rights Amendment
(with 19, 24 & 26)
5. 16th Amendment Power of Congress to tax income
6. 17th Amendment Established the direct election of senators (instead of

being chosen by state legislatures)
7. 19th Amendment States cannot deny the right to vote based on gender
8. 1st Amendment Freedom of religion (establishment & free exercise claus-

es), speech, press, assembly, and petition.
9. 22nd Amend- Limits the president to two terms.

ment
10. 23rd Amendment Gives Washington DC electoral college votes as if it were

a state (DC still has no representation in Congress)
11. 24th Amendment Abolishes poll taxes
12. 26th Amendment States cannot deny the right to vote based on age (18+)
13. 2nd Amendment

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Right to arm bears. Supported by National Rifle Associa-
tion interest group & Republican Party.
14. 4th Amendment No "unreasonable" searches and seizures. Exclusionary

rule (Weeks v. US, Mapp v. Ohio)
15. 5th Amendment (1) No Self-Incrimination (Miranda)

(2) No Double Jeopardy (defendant cannot be tried again
on the same, or similar charges)
(3) No deprivation of life liberty or property without "due
process of law" (fair treatment)
16. 6th Amendment The right to counsel in criminal trials. Gideon v. Wain-
wright held that states must provide indigent defendants
with a free lawyer ("public defender"). Right to jury in
criminal trials.
17. 7th Amendment Right to jury in civil trials.
18. 8th Amendment Government cannot inflict cruel and unusual punishment.
Meaning of "cruel" based on "evolving standards of de-
cency that mark the progress of a maturing society."
Categorical bans on death penalty: juveniles, retarded,
non-murder crimes...
19. 9th Amendment Unenumerated Rights Amendment. Citizens have unenu-

merated rights in addition to those stated in the Consti-
tution. Not been developed by Supreme Court (too open
ended)
20. Constitution A nation's basic law, creates political institutions, assigns

or divides power in government and often provides certain
guarantees to citizens. Can be written or unwritten.
21. Agents of Social- Family (most important); TV/media (growing in impor-

ization tance); friends/peers; school (formal socialization). How
we develop (absorb) opinions & beliefs.
22. American Politi- A set of basic, foundational values and beliefs about
cal Culture government that is shared by most citizens. Key elements:
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democracy, equality before the law, limited government,
capitalism & private property
23. Anti-Federalists A group who opposed the ratification of the Constitution in

1787. They opposed a strong central government (tyran-
ny) and supported states' rights. "I smell a rat!"
24. Articles of Con- Set up the 1st independent American government

federation (1783-88). Nonbinding "league of friendship" among sov-
ereign states with weak central government to help
with common defense & cooperation (like the European
Union). Replaced by our current constitution in 1788.
25. Bandwagon Ef- "Copy-cat" behavior. People often do things just because
fect other people do them. In primary elections, it is when
people support the candidate everyone else seems to
be supporting (poll leaders). Leads to Primary Frontload-
ing (states want to have the most impact in the primary
process)
26. Block Grants Grants ($) given to the states by the federal government
for a general purpose (like education or road-building).
Unlike categorical grants, states have discretion to decide
how to spend the money. Example = Temporary Assis-
tance to Needy Families (TANF) (States develop and
implement welfare programs using federal money).
27. Casework Assistance given to individual constituents by congres-

sional members, like helping an elderly person figure out
how to get Medicare benefits. Major incumbency advan-
tage.
28. Categorical A grant ($) given to the states by the federal government
Grant for a specific purpose or program. The federal government
tells the states exactly how to spend the money (no state
discretion unlike block grants). Example = Medicaid. Most
common type of federal grant because it gives Congress
the most control over the states.
29.
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Checks and Bal- A major principle of the American system of govern-
ances ment. Helps maintain separation of powers so that no
one branch gets too powerful. Explained in Federalist
51. Examples: President vetos laws; Senate confirms ap-
pointments & treaties; Congress impeaches president &
judges...
30. Chief Justice In office from 1801-1835 (longest serving CJ). Supported
John Marshall increased power of federal government. Decided McCul-
loch v. Maryland, Gibbons v. Ogden, and Marbury v. Madi-
son.
31. Civil Rights Act Prohibits discrimination based on race or gender in em-
of 1964 ployment or public accommodations (restaurants, hotels).
Created EEOC to enforce. Based on Congress's inter-
state commerce clause power (discrimination impacts
interstate commerce). The most important federal civil
rights law.
32. Commerce Art. 1, Sec. 8 of the Constitution (enumerated power).

Clause Congress has the power to regulate commerce with for-
eign nations, among the several states ["Interstate Com-
merce Clause"], and with the Indians. Interpreted by the
Supreme Court very broadly (Gibbons v. Ogden) until
Lopez & Morrison.
33. Confederation Nonbinding union of sovereign states (example = Euro-

pean Union, America under Articles of Confederation).
34. Congressional Rich highly educated white male protestant lawyers &
Demographics businessmen! Women VERY underrepresented! (<17%)
35. Connecticut Solves big state-little state debate over representation in

Compromise federal legislature at Philly Convention. Created bicam-
eral legislature with equal representation for states in
Senate and proportional representation in House (seats
based on population).
36. Cooperative Fed- System of federalism where federal & state governments
eralism help each other perform governmental duties. Also known
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as marble-cake federalism. E.g., After hurricanes federal
and state agencies work together to provide relief. Can
cause confusion and/or conflict among among different
levels of government. Best explanation of how federalism
works today (instead of dual federalism)
37. Condition of Aid A technique of fiscal federalism used by Congress to

control states. Requires states to do something in order
to get the money (ex. South Dakota v. Dole, raise drinking
age 21 to get highway money).
38. Department of Cabinet-level agency in charge of the armed forces and

Defense military policy. HQ = The Pentagon. (Secretary Panetta)
39. Department of Cabinet-level agency in charge of foreign policy & inter-

State national affairs. (Secretary Clinton)
40. Descriptive Rep- The idea that politicians can only represent people like
resentation them (ex. only women can represent women, blacks rep-
resent blacks, etc.)
41. Devolution Revo- The effort to reduce the size & power of the federal
lution government by returning (devolving) power to the states.
Associated with economic conservatives, President Rea-
gan & the Tea Party.
42. Doctrine of Im- Established by CJ Marshall in McCulloch v. Maryland.

plied Powers Congress has the power to make all laws that are "neces-
sary and proper" for carrying out its enumerated powers.
So it can create a National Bank to carry out its power to
coin money. Major cause of growth of federal power.
43. Dual Federalism System of federalism that strictly separates federal power
(ex. foreign relations) and state power (ex. protect against
crime). Each level of government is dominant within its
own sphere. Probably how the Founders thought America
would work (enumerated federal powers + reserved state
powers). Also known as "layer-cake federalism."
44. Electoral College

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Constitutional system for electing president and vice pres-
ident. Each state has electors = to number of senators +
representatives (DC also has 3 because of 23rd Amend-
ment). Citizens of state vote for candidate. Winner gets all
electoral college votes (except Maine & Nebraska which
uses proportional system). Winner of majority of electoral
college votes becomes president. If no majority then Pres-
ident picked by House from top 3 candidates.
45. Congress' Enu- Power to tax, borrow & coin money, regulate foreign & in-
merated Powers terstate commerce, establish army, declare war, make all
laws necessary & proper for carrying out the enumerated
powers (elastic clause)
46. Exclusionary Evidence obtained in violation of 4th Amendment is not

Rule admissible in criminal trial. (Weeks v. U.S., Mapp v. Ohio)
47. Exit Poll A poll of voters exiting the polls (voting locations) to at-
tempt to predict the outcome of the election. May create
a bandwagon effect.
48. Federalism A system of government in which power is divided be-

tween one central government and several regional gov-
ernments (dual or cooperative). Used in USA and a
few other countries. Most countries have unitary govern-
ments.
49. Federalist Pa- Written in 1788 by Madison, Hamilton, and Jay to support
pers ratification of the Constitution. Fed 10 (factions) & Fed 51
(separation of powers, checks & balances)
50. Federalists Supporters of the new constitution in 1787. Supported a

strong central government. Hamilton, Washington, Mar-
shall. Became first political party (vs. Jefferson's Democ-
ratic-Republicans)
51. Fiscal Federal- Federal government using money (grants) to influence &
ism control states.
52.
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Formal Amend- Article V; the (very difficult) process of adding or deleting
ment Process words to the constitution (27 times since 1788); propose
by 2/3 vote of Congress or Constitutional Convention
(never used); ratify by 3/4 vote of state legislators or state
convention (only used once)
53. Franking Privi- The right of congresspeople to send job-related mail to

lege their constituents without paying postage. Incumbency
advantage.
54. Gender Gap Belief / observation that women are more likely to sup-
port Democratic / liberal candidates & issues than men.
Women are more likely to support spending on welfare &
education, and to oppose higher levels of military spend-
ing.
55. General Election Election in which the winner becomes an elected govern-
ment official.
56. Gerrymandering The drawing of district boundaries by the state legislature

to benefit a party, group, or incumbents. Major types are
political & racial.
57. Gibbons v Og- Commerce clause case (1824). Decision greatly enlarged
den Congress' interstate commerce clause power by broadly
defining the meaning of "commerce" to include virtually
all types of economic activity. Pair with Lopez & Morrison
cases (limiting commerce power).
58. Grandfather Jim Crow era state laws that discouraged African Amer-
Clause icans from voting by saying that if your grandpa couldn't
vote, then neither can you. The newly-freed slaves grand-
pas couldn't vote, so neither could they. Declared uncon-
stitutional in 1915.
59. Informal Amend- Changing the meaning of the Constitution without chang-
ment Process ing the actual words (which requires a formal amendment
through Article V process). Examples = Supreme Court
opinions, laws, traditions.
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60. Initiative Some states allow citizens to come up with their own
ideas for laws to put on an election ballot. If the proposition
passes it becomes a law. Requires many voter signatures
to get on the ballot. Most direct form of democracy (citizen
law-making)
61. Isolationism Old as Washington, a belief that America should not seek
to become engaged in foreign affairs.
62. Jacksonian The first major opening up of American suffrage (voting

Democracy rights) by Jackson's new Democratic Party in 1830s. Fran-
chise extended to all white men (not just rich white men).
Achieved by state legislation not constitutional amend-
ment.
63. Jim Crow Era Era in the South after Civil War (1865) until 1950s. African
Americans were freed from slavery and could legally
vote (Amendments 13, 14, 15) but were still subjected to
discriminatory state laws enforcing segregation and kept
from voting by laws (ex. poll taxes, literacy tests) and by
violence (KKK)
64. John Locke Father of political liberalism (limited government to pro-

tect life liberty & property; right to revolt if government
becomes a tyranny); he greatly influenced Jefferson & the
Declaration of Independence.
65. Joint Chiefs of One General from each of the 4 armed service branches
Staff (army, navy, air force, marines) and, since 1/2012, the
National Guard. The JCS are key military advisors to the
President.
66. Defamation False and malicious (mean) writings ("libel") or speech

("slander") about a living person. Not protected speech
under 1st Amendment but check out NY Times v. Sullivan
(very difficult for "public figures" to prove defamation)
67. Idealism (foreign Use American power to promote democracy and peace
policy) around the world. Associated with Woodrow Wilson &
Jimmy Carter. (Compare with realism)
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68. Literacy Test A method to deny blacks right to vote during the Jim Crow
Era by requiring reading or civics test in order to vote.
Could be selectively applied. Rationale: only the educated
should vote. Prohibited by the Voting Rights Act of 1965.
69. Logrolling You support my bill, I'll support yours. Trading favors by
legislators to help pass their bills.
70. McCulloch v. (1) CJ Marshall establishes doctrine of implied powers

Maryland (1824) (Congress can create a national bank because it is nec-
essary & proper to carrying out the enumerated power
to coin money); (2) Supremacy clause prevents state
(Maryland) from taxing the National Bank. Very important
case enlarging power of federal government.
71. Economic Liber- Belief in strong government intervention in the economy

alism to promote stability & prosperity (example, Keynesian
fiscal policy)
72. NATO North Atlantic Treaty Organization. Cold War military al-
liance (USA + Western Europe vs. USSR).
73. Necessary and Gives congress the power to do anything that is neces-
Proper Clause sary and proper to carry out an enumerated power. Also
known as the "elastic clause." Leads to implied powers
doctrine (McCulloch v. Maryland)
74. New Jersey Plan Plan at Philadelphia Convention for equal representation
in new Congress (1 state 1 vote). Also known as "small
state plan." Opposite of the Virginia "big state" Plan. Be-
comes basis of representation in the Senate.
75. North Ameri- Free trade agreement among USA, Canada & Mexico.
can Free Trade Goal = promote economic prosperity & cooperation. Eas-
Agreement ier perhaps to achieve at regional level than global level
(World Trade Organization).
76. 1883 reform law that replaced the patronage/spoils sys-

tem in the federal bureaucracy with a merit-based profes-
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Pendleton Civil sional system. "Important" leadership positions in bureau-
Service Reform cracy (Secretaries, Commissioners, Directors) & federal
Act judges still appointed by president.
77. Pocket Veto If a bill is proposed within 10 days of congress adjourning

and the president does not sign it , it will die (un-override-
able veto).
78. Political Ideology A more or less consistent set of beliefs about what poli-
cies government should pursue.
79. Political Social- The process by which individuals acquire (absorb) a

ization sense of political identity (beliefs & behaviors). Key agents
of socialization include family, media, peers.
Process can be informal (family) or formal (APGOPO)
80. Poll Tax Tax on voting. Used to discourage African Americans from
voting during the Jim Crow era. Also used to exclude poor
whites. Declared unconstitutional by 24th Amendment.
81. Earmarking Practice of congressmen of securing ("appropriating")

federal money ("pork") for projects that will benefit their
constituents. Major incumbent advantage & source of
budget increases
82. Primary Election One way for a state party to select delegates to send to
the National Convention. Can be closed, open or blanket.
Now used by most states instead of caucus (cheaper,
quicker, more democratic).
83. Push Poll A type of poll that attempts to influence opinions secretly
using a poll (would you vote for McCain if you knew that
he had a black, illegitimate child?)
84. Random Digit Di- A common method of randomizing poll sample to maxi-
aling mize accuracy.
85. Realism Major foreign policy ideology. Act in the world only to
protect and benefit yourself. (Contrast with idealism)
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86. Redistricting When a state legislature or independent commission
Process draws new House district lines (if gain/loss of seats af-
ter reapportionment process based on census every ten
years)
87. Referendum A state level method of direct democracy that gives voters
a chance to approve or disapprove proposed legislative
action or a proposed amendment. Occurs when a state
wants the voter's opinion on a controversial issue.
88. Republic Representative democracy. Sovereignty rests with the

people, as opposed to a king or monarch.
89. Sampling Error The % margin of error of a survey. Randomized polls

accurate to 3%.
90. Selective Incor- Judicial doctrine that applies the Bill of Rights (one right
poration Doc- at a time) to state and local governments by incorporating
trine them into the concept of liberty in the 14th Amendment's
Due Process Clause (which is binding on the states)
91. Separation of The principle of dividing governmental powers among dif-

Powers ferent branches of government to protect against tyranny
(Federalist 51).
92. Shays' Rebellion Failed rebellion in 1786 by poor farmers in MA against

state government & banks that were taking their farms.
Showed how weak the central confederation government
was vs. threats to private property and order. Major factor
in creation of Constitutional Convention in 1787 (Elite
theory)
93. Stare Decisis "The decision stands". A rule in deciding cases where
judges follow precedent (how similar cases were decided
in the past). Helps promote consistency and fairness in
the legal process. Lower courts must follow precedent set
by higher courts. Supreme Court can reject precedent if
absolutely necessary (Example: Brown rejects precedent
of Plessy).
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94. Substantive Rep- Theory of representation that says that anyone can rep-
resentation resent any group (ex. a rich white guy can represent the
interests of poor black people). Compare to Descriptive
Representation.
95. Supremacy The Federal constitution, laws, and treaties are the
Clause supreme law of the land. States cannot interfere with
federal power (ex. McCulloch v. Maryland).
96. Swing State A state that could go either way in a presidential elec-
tions (unlike "safe states"). Target of a lot of attention in
elections. Also known as "battleground states" or "purple
states" (Ohio, Florida in 2008)
97. Unitary State A state ruled by one central government. This is the sys-
tem used by most countries. Compare with federal state.
98. United Nations Replaced the League of Nations after WWII. Global orga-
nization to maintain peace and facilitate diplomacy.
99. US Constitution "The supreme law of the land." Written in 1787 at Philadel-
phia Convention to replace Articles of Confederation and
create stronger central government. Outlines structure
& power of 3 branches of national government. Oldest
written constitution still in use (but amended 27 times plus
myriad informal amendments).
100. US v. Morrison Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) unconstitutional

(2000) because it exceeded Congress' commerce clause power.
With Lopez v. United States, two recent cases checking
commerce clause growth of federal power (unchecked
since New Deal). Next up: Obamacare.
101. Virginia Plan Also known as the Big State Plan. Wanted proportional
representation in Congress (based on population).
102. White Primary A form of restricting African American's 15th Amendment

rights during the Jim Crow Era by only allowing whites
to vote in the primary elections; giving African Americans
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only the opportunity to vote for white racist A or white
racist B.
103. World Trade Or- Economic organization to promote global wealth.

ganization
104. Measurement Er- An error in collecting polling data. Example = response

ror bias or confusing questions.
105. Libertarianism Belief in as much freedom and as little government as

possible (tolerates some government to provide stability &
security). Supports free market economy, no government
regulation of morality, low taxes.
106. Socialism A policial ideology that opposes capitalism and supports

government control of major aspects of the economy (ex.
electricity, health care).
107. Declaration of In- Thomas Jefferson's statement of political liberalism (lim-

dependence ited government to protect life liberty and pursuit of hap-
piness; right to revolution).
108. Philadelphia 12 states send delegates to revise the Articles of Con-

Convention federation; Delegates soon agree to draft completely new
(1787) Constitution with stronger federal government. Elite con-
spiracy?
109. South Dakota v. Congress is allowed to attach "strings" (conditions of aid)

Dole (1987) to money given to states (raise drinking age to 21 to get
highway funds). Major tool of fiscal federalism.
110. Term Limits A legal restriction that limits the number of terms a person
may serve in a particular elected office. President limited
by 22nd Amendment to 2 terms. No term limits on con-
gressmen.
111. US Term Limits v Prohibited state legislatures from imposing term limits of
Thornton their Representatives and Senators (Court held that the
Constitution's Qualifications Clause is the only limit on
congressional service)
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112. Speaker of the The leader of the majority party and presiding officer
House of the House of Representatives. Key role in assigning
bills to committee and members to committees & setting
party's legislative agenda
113. Economic Con- Belief in limited government intervention in the free mar-
servatism ket. Supports tax and spending cuts, deregulation & pri-
vatization. Reaganomics or "trickle down economics."
114. Policy Election An election in which voters vote on a particular policy

question (ban gay marriage, legalize marijuana). Often
used to resolve a controversial issue. Only used (so far)
at the state level. Three types of policy election are: recall,
initiative, referendum.
115. Congressional Association of members created to support a political

Caucuses ideology or regional economic interest (black caucus,
women's caucus, blue dog democrats...)
116. House and Sen- Deputy leadership position. Connects leaders with "rank
ate Whips and file" members, and tries to encourage party unity &
discipline
117. Senate Leaders The heads of the minority and majority parties in the
Senate. Less powerful than the Speaker, they set legisla-
tive agenda for their party and help set the daily Senate
agenda.
118. Standing Com- Permanent committees in House and Senate that handle
mittees bills dealing with a particular subject area. Examples:
Defense, Budget, Education.
119. House Rules Powerful House standing committee that reviews all bills
Committee coming from other House committees before they go
to the full House (gatekeeper function); sets time limit
for debate decides whether amendments can be added
(open or closed rule).
120.
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House Ways and Important House standing committee responsible for ini-
Means Commit- tiating all taxation bills.
tee
121. Appropriations Decide how to spend money allocated to each spending

Committees category by Budget Resolution; 12 subcommittees for
major areas of budget (ex. defense, energy, agriculture);
major source of earmarking
122. Budget Commit- House & Senate standing committees that begins budget
tee process in Congress by setting overall budget size and
amounts that will be spent on different topics (ex. defense,
education)
123. Subcommittees A group within a standing committee that specializes in

a subcategory of the standing committee's responsibility.
(Ex. House Committee on Foreign Affairs has subcommit-
tees on Asia, Europe, Africa, etc.)
124. Conference A joint committee appointed to resolve differences in the

Committees senate and house versions of the same bill
125. Joint Commit- Congressional committees to discuss & supervise certain

tees topics, with membership drawn from both houses. (ex.,
Committee on Library, Taxation)
126. Select Commit- Temporary congressional committees appointed for a

tees specific purpose, such as impeachment investigations or
the "Super Committee" on the Budget
127. Committee Leader of a congressional committee. Usually the longest

Chairperson serving member of the majority party on that committee
(seniority rule). A very powerful position - Controls the
committee calendar, agenda, and hearings. Can pigeon-
hole (table) a bill by refusing to schedule debate on it.
128. Seniority Rule A congressional custom that gives the chair of a commit-
tee or subcommittee to the member of the majority party
with the longest continuous service on the committee.
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129. Filibuster Use of unlimited time for debate in the Senate to kill bills
by making (or threatening to make) long speeches. No
filibuster in House (House Rules Committee places time
limits on all debates). Broken by cloture motion (60 votes)
130. Cloture A procedure used in the senate to limit debate on a bill

(end a filibuster); requires 60 votes.
131. Pigeonholing Occurs when a committee ignores a bill and doesn't re-
port it out. Also known as "tabling" or "death by commit-
tee." Major cause of bill death.
132. Marking Up The process by which a congressional committee de-

bates, amends, and/or rewrites bills.
133. Reporting Out When a committee finishes the mark-up of a bill and
sends it to the senate or house for debate, consideration,
and final passage.
134. Open Rule An order from the House Rules Committee that permits a
bill to be amended on the floor (allows "death by amend-
ment")
135. Closed Rule Rule in the House of Representatives that prohibits any
amendments to bills or says that only members of the
committee reporting the bill may offer amendments
136. Treaty Power The ability of a president to negotiate treaties with foreign
nations (requires ratification by 2/3 senate vote). Over-
shadowed by Executive Agreements.
137. Appointment The power of the President & Senate to appoint important
Power government officers (federal judges, agency directors,
etc.). President nominates candidate, which then must
by confirmed by simple majority in the Senate (check on
President's power). Subject to senatorial courtesy rule for
local appointments (district judges)
138. Pardon Power Power of the president to forgive a federal offense without
penalty or grant release from a penalty already imposed.
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Based on kingly power to intervene in judicial process in
exceptional cases.
139. Comman- Constitutional power of the president - "supreme com-

der-in-Chief mander" of the nation's armed forces. Important to keep
military under civilian control, leads to conflict with Con-
gress over war power (War Powers Act)
140. State of the A yearly report by the president to Congress required

Union Address by Constitution describing the nation's condition and rec-
ommending programs and policies (bully pulpit to set
legislative agenda )
141. The Cabinet Group of important advisors to the President (Heads of

Department agencies, VP and other VIPs chosen by pres-
ident). Created by Washington, example of an informal
amendment to the Constitution based on custom / tradi-
tion.
142. Vice President Back-up president. Only constitutional role = President

of Senate & casts tie-breaker vote in Senate. Typically
selected to increase odds in election (Biden experience
& foreign policy; Palin youth & Tea Party)
143. Executive Office Ten organizations that advise the President. Includes
of the President the Office of Management and Budget, the Council of
(EOP) Economic Advisors, and National Security Council. Top
positions must be confirmed by Senate.
144. White House Of- EOP group that includes the President's most trusted
fice personal advisors (led by White House Chief of Staff);
members do not need senate confirmation
145. Office of Man- EOP agency that helps the President prepare annual
agement and budget proposal and evaluates budget priorities and ef-
Budget fectiveness of federal agencies (oversight)
146. Council of Eco- EOP agency; three economists who advise president
nomic Advisors about general economic date, issues and policy propos-
als. Must be confirmed by senate.
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147. National Security Consults with the president on matters of defense and
Counsel foreign policy.
148. White House Pyramidal (with Chief of Staff) or Spokes and Hub style
Management (less reliance on Chief of Staff)
Styles
149. Patronage Sys- AKA Spoils System. Filling government bureaucracy

tem based on connections & political favors not merit (crony-
ism); ended by Pendleton Act (1883)
150. Civil Service Government bureaucracy; non-elected agents ("worker

bees") that work for executive agencies to execute the
law; hierarchical organization, job specialization, detailed
rules & procedures, administrative discretion. Massive
growth since New Deal & WWII (2.5m people = nation's
largest employer)
151. Plum Book A list of good-paying (sweet) jobs that the new president
can fill by appointment (agency directors and other VIPs)
152. Cabinet Depart- The fifteen largest and most influential agencies of the
ments federal bureaucracy (e.g., Department of State, Treasury,
Justice...) Headed by Secretary or Attorney General (De-
partment of Justice)
153. Independent Independent agencies created by Congress to regulate

Regulatory important aspects of the nation's economy. Commission-
Commissions ers appointed by President but not removable except "for
cause" (to protect independence). Most independent and
least accountable part of the federal bureaucracy.
154. Independent Ex- Federal agencies that aren't large or important enough to
ecutive Agencies get department status. Directors appointed by President
w/ advice & consent of Senate. Ex. NASA, CIA, EPA
155. Government Cor- A government organization that, like regular corporations,

porations provides a service to the public and typically charges
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for its services. The U.S. Postal Service is an example.
Privatization would abolish GCs.
156. Continuing Res- A emergency budget extension measure that Congress

olution passes when a full budget law has not been completed by
the beginning of the new fiscal year (October 1). Avoids
government shutdown.
157. Line-Item Veto Allows president to veto bad parts of a bill but keep the
rest. Like a scalpel. Especially useful for cutting out pork
from spending bills. Declared unconstitutional (impermis-
sibly changed the detailed law-making process estab-
lished in Article I)
158. President as Par- POTUS is the symbolic leader of his party. Acts as party's
ty Leader chief spokesperson to the public & sets party's legislative
agenda (bully pulpit)
159. Honeymoon Pe- The short period (days or months) following an election
riod when a president's popularity and ability to influence Con-
gress is at its highest.
160. Bully Pulpit The Presidency is a "bully pulpit" - a good position from
which to inspire Congress & the nation, with the help of
the media, to follow his political agenda. Example = FDR's
fireside chats, Obama's televised State of the Union Ad-
dress...
161. Rally Effect Short-term patriotic increase in president's popularity and

power during times of serious international crisis or war
(e.g. Bush after 9/11)
162. War Powers Act A law passed in 1973 after Vietnam fiasco requiring (1)
president to notify Congress within 48 hours of sending
troops into combat and (2) begin to remove troops after
60 days unless Congress approves of the action. Limited
effort to reverse erosion of Congress' war powers since
World War II (last formal declaration of war).
163.
19 / 43
Executive Agree- Non-treaty agreement between the U.S. president and
ment other nations that does not require Senate ratification
(but is not binding on future presidents). Since 1939,
executive agreements have comprised more than 90% of
the international agreements (because senate ratification
is a real drag!)
164. Social Conser- Government should protect "traditional" (Christian) views

vatism on marriage, gender roles, & social issues. Oppose gay
marriage, legalization of drugs, abortion.
165. Veto Process President may veto any bill by returning it to Congress
with explanation. Congress can override with 2/3 vote in
both houses (very hard to do)
166. Impeachment Constitutional process for removing executive officers &

Process judges for "treason, high crimes & misdemeanors" (what-
ever Congress thinks is impeachable). Two stages: (1)
House decides to impeach (accuse) target (simple ma-
jority); (2) Senate holds trial to convict (2/3 majority).
Andy Johnson and Bill Clinton were impeached but not
convicted. Nixon resigned as Articles of Impeachment
were being drafted!
167. Executive Privi- The President's self-declared power to keep executive

lege communications confidential, especially if they relate to
national security. Informal amendment to Constitution (by
tradition). Can lead to conflict with other branches (Wa-
tergate).
168. Lame Duck Person holding office after his or her replacement has
been elected to the office, but before the current term
has ended. Lame Duck Presidents may find it hard to
influence Congress (why work with a guy who is about
to leave?)
169. Deregulation The lifting of government rules & restrictions on business,

industry, and professional activities; major goal of Repub-
licans
20 / 43
170. Privatization Process of ending government services and allowing the
free market (private firms) to provide the service. Purpose
= reduce government spending & provide more efficient
services. Example = abolishing the postal service. Sup-
ported by Republicans.
171. Administrative The ability of an agency to determine how it will execute

Discretion (carry out) laws. Major source of independent power for
agencies. (Ex. The FDA decides how to determine safety
of food & drugs, the U.S. Attorneys decide whether or not
to prosecute suspects)
172. Executive Orders Regulations & orders from the President to an agency
about how to execute a law. They are one of the ways
presidents can try to control the bureaucracy.
173. Government Ac- A federal legislative agency that audits (investigates) oth-
countability Of- er agencies of the federal government and reports it's
fice findings to Congress (makes sure they are not spending
more money than the government has appropriated for
them).
174. Congressional The power of Congress to oversee how laws are car-
Oversight ried out ("watchdog function" to prevent fraud & waste).
Carried out through committee hearings & investigations,
approprations process (how much are we spending on
that program again?), GAO..
175. Freedom of Infor- Gives all citizens the right to inspect all records of federal
mation Act agencies except those containing military, intelligence, or
trade secrets; increases accountability of bureaucracy
176. Ethics in Govern- Requires financial disclosure for elected public officials
ment Act and placed 1 year restriction on former government offi-
cials' lobbying activities (the revolving door problem)
177. District Courts Federal trial courts. Limited jurisdiction (primarily to hear
cases involving constitution and/or federal law). Must
follow Supreme Court & their Circuit Court precedents
21 / 43
(stare decisis). Federal government represented by U.S.
Attorney's Office.
178. Circuit Courts Intermediate federal appellate courts. Cover 13 "circuits"

across America. Hear appeals from District Courts in their
jurisdiction.
179. Supreme Court Final federal appellate court ("court of last resort"). Hears
appeals from Circuit Courts (certiorari petition / rule of 4).
Only hears "important" constitutional cases.
180. Original Jurisdic- The jurisdiction of courts to hear a case for the first
tion time (trial). Trial courts (District Courts in federal system)
assess the facts in a case and the issue the first decision
(guilt, innocence). Supreme Court has OJ over disputes
between 2 states.
181. Appellate Juris- The jurisdiction of courts to hear appeals from lower trial
diction or appellate courts. Appellate courts determine whether
cases were decided correctly by the court below. Circuit
courts have mandatory AJ (they have to hear appeals
from District Courts). Supreme Court has discretionary
AK (they can choose to hear appeals from Circuit Courts
and State Supreme Courts).
182. Senatorial Cour- Senate will not confirm a presidential nomination for a po-
tesy sition within a state (ex., District Court Judge) without the
consent of the senior senator of the President's party from
that state. Informal amendment to appointment process
(by tradition)
183. Removal The President may remove any appointed federal offi-
Process cer whenever he wants for any reason. However, the
Supreme Court has upheld Congressional limits on re-
moval power for Independent Commissioners (can only
be removed "for cause").
184. Department of Federal department responsible for enforcing federal laws

Justice (includes FBI, Civil Rights Division, Antitrust Division,
Drug Enforcement Administration...)
22 / 43
185. Attorney General Head of the Justice Department and the chief law enforce-
ment officer of the United States
186. Solicitor General Senior Justice Department attorney. Decides what cases
the government will appeal to the Supreme Court, files
amicus briefs with the Supreme Court in cases the gov-
ernment is interested in, and represents the United States
before the Supreme Court.
187. U.S. Attorneys Government lawyer that represents the US government

at the district court level (trials).
188. Case or Contro- Rule of judicial self restraint to limit power of judicial
versy Require- review; the Court will only consider real controversies
ment including real, adverse parties (no advisory opinions)
189. U.S. v. Nixon Supreme Court intervenes in battle between President

Nixon and Congress (impeachment process). President
cannot use executive privilege as an excuse to withhold
evidence in impeachment process. Leads to Nixon's res-
ignation.
190. Writ of Certiorari An order by the Supreme Court saying that it will hear
a certain case (rule of 4). Granted in cases that raise
important constitutional questions or where circuit courts
have reached different opinions on a particular issue.
191. Rule of 4 How the Supreme Court decides whether to hear a case.
Requires four or more justices to "grant certiorari" (agree
to hear an appeal). Supreme Court agrees to hear <1%
of cases.
192. Docket The list of cases that the Supreme Court has agreed
to hear (granted certiorari to) in a term (usually 70-100
cases)
193. Oral Arguments The stage in Supreme Court proceedings in which attor-
neys for both sides appear before the Court to present
23 / 43
their positions and answer questions posed by the jus-
tices. Good theater (for law nerds).
194. Amicus Curiae Literally, a "friend of the court" brief, filed by an individual
Brief or interest group to present arguments / points of view in
addition to those presented by the immediate parties to a
case (lobbying). Solicitor General files Amicus Briefs for
U.S. government.
195. Counter-Majori- The argument that judicial review is problematic because

tarian Difficulty it allows unelected judges to overrule the decisions of
elected representatives, thus undermining the will of the
majority.
196. Judicial Review The power of the Supreme Court to declare laws and
actions of local, state, or national governments uncon-
stitutional. Established in Marbury v. Madison (informal
amendment to Constitution)
197. Marbury vs. Chief Justice John Marshall famously announces the ex-
Madison istence of the power of judicial review: the power of the
Supreme Court to declare laws and actions of local, state,
or national governments unconstitutional.
198. Judicial Activism A philosophy of judicial decision-making whereby judges

allow their personal views about public policy (liberal or
conservative) to guide their decisions. Activist judges are
comfortable declaring laws unconstitutional.
199. Judicial Re- A philosophy of judicial decision-making whereby judges

straint give significant deference to the decisions made by elect-
ed representatives in the legislative and executive branch-
es. Restrained judges are uncomfortable declaring laws
unconstitutional.
200. Precedent A decision in a previous court case that is used as the

basis for a decision in a similar case.
201. Stare Decisis
24 / 43
"Let the decision stand"; the principle that cases should
be decided in ways consistent with similar prior cases.
Promotes consistency & fairness.
202. Jurisdiction The right & power to make decisions in a particular area.
Federal courts are courts of limited jurisdiction. Before a
federal court can hear a case it must establish that it has
the power to hear this type of case (primary jurisdiction
is to hear cases involving the federal constitution and/or
federal law).
203. Plaintiff One who brings a court action against another (the com-
plainer)
204. Prosecutor The state or federal government attorney in a criminal

case.
205. Defendant An individual or group being sued by a plaintiff or charged

with a crime by a prosecutor.
206. Appellant The losing party in a court case who appeals the case to
an appellate court.
207. Appellee The party opposing an appeal from a lower court to an

appellate court.
208. Civil Law Laws dealing with private rights of individuals (defama-
tion, breach of contract, negligence). Violation results in
damages or injunction.
209. Criminal Law Laws dealing with offenses against society (murder, rape,
arson). Prosecuted by the government, violation results in
fines or prison sentences
210. Damages A sum of money paid in compensation for loss or injury in

a civil case
211. Injunction A judicial order to a party to do or stop doing something

(example: a restraining order to stay away from a specific
person).
25 / 43
212. Nomination The process by which a political party nominates ("se-

Process lects") a candidate to run in a general election.
213. Party Caucus A meeting of important party members to select party

(historical) candidates. Attacked as corrupt and anti-democratic so
not used anymore.
214. Primary Election Election to select party's candidate for each office. It is
now the main way of selecting party candidates. Most
democratic method and simpler than caucus. Greatly
weakens the power of party leaders and increases power
of ordinary voters.
215. Closed Primary Only registered party members can vote in the party
primaries. Maximum party control over process, used in
most state primaries.
216. Open Primary Anyone can vote in any party primaries (but can only vote
in the primaries of one party). Less party control over
process. May cause raider effect.
217. Political Party A group of individuals with broad common interests who
organize to nominate candidates for office, develop a
party platform (policy goals), win elections, and run gov-
ernment
218. American Party 2 main parties (because of electoral rules) with other
System smaller and less powerful third parties (spoiler, splinter,
extremist)
219. Single-Member Electoral district with only one representative (single

Plurality District member). The representative is whoever wins a plurality
(SMPD) of the votes in a general election (no run-off elections).
Senate and House districts are SMPDs. Discourages
third parties, leads to two-party system.
220. Winner-Take-All Most common state system for allocating electoral college
System votes (candidate with the most votes wins all of the elec-
(Electoral toral votes of that state). Used in all but 2 states. Maxi-
College)
26 / 43
mizes states' influence in electoral process but complete-
ly ignores votes for losing candidates (undemocratic).
221. Congressional Minority state system for allocating electoral college votes
District System (used in ME & NE). The winner of each congressional
(Electoral district is awarded that district's electoral vote, and the
College) winner of the state-wide vote is awarded the state's re-
maining two electoral votes. More accurately reflects voter
will, but reduces states' influence in electoral process.
222. Third Party Any political party that appears as an alternative to the
two main parties of the Democrats and the Republicans.
Often extremist, single-issue or candidate-centered. Not
major feature of US political system because of win-
ner-take-all electoral system. Can have spoiler effect
(Nader in 2000) or are absorbed into major party (Tea
Party in 2008).
223. Spoiler Effect When a 3rd party candidate takes enough votes away
from one of the main party candidates to make him/her
lose the election. Ex., Ralph Nader & Green Party may
have caused Al Gore to lose 2000 election to George
Bush.
224. Electoral Re- Changes in the two party system (either a new party
alignment replaces old party or coalitions that make up the two main
political parties change over time). "Hard realignment"
occurs in one critical election (ex., Republicans replace
the Whigs in 1860), "soft realignment" occurs or over time
(ex., African Americans switch from Republican Party to
Democratic Party during Civil Rights Era)
225. Critical Election Election in which existing patterns of party loyalty shift.
Ex. Northern Democrats switch parties in 1860 to vote for
Republican Party (Lincoln).
226. Electoral A lessening of the importance of party loyalties in voting

Dealignment decision (more independent voters, more split ticket vot-
ing, more divided government). Perhaps occurring now?
27 / 43
227. Ticket Splitting Voting for one party for one office and for another party for
other offices. Frequent among independent voters; leads
to divided government.
228. Divided Govern- When policymaking institutions of government (Presi-

ment dent, Senate, House) are divided among the parties (e.g.,
Democratic President, Republican Congress). Requires
more compromise; can lead to gridlock.
229. Local Party Or- Get-out-the vote activities (grassroots organization). Can
ganization be very unorganized. The initial point of entry for those
seeking involvement in politics (volunteers, organizers, or
candidates)
230. State Party Orga- Links local level to national level. State committee (still
nization mostly volunteer but might have an office, some paid
positions). Major jobs are (1) to hold primary elections to
select candidates; (2) to support state level candidates in
general elections; and (3) to influence platform of National
Party.
231. National Party Headed by President and/or National Chairperson. Main

Organization function (limited) is to hold the national convention to se-
lect the presidential candidate & write the party platform.
232. National Com- National party organization that, with Congressional lead-
mittee ers and President, runs party affairs between national
conventions, (DNC and RNC, each is headed by a chair-
person).
233. National Conven- The meeting of party delegates every four years to
tion choose a presidential ticket and write the party's platform.
Brokered Convention occurs if no candidate has won a
majority of delegates in state primaries & caucuses.
234. National Chair- Person responsible for the day-to-day activities of the
person party, usually hand-picked by the presidential nominee.
235. Party Platform A political party's statement of its goals and policies for
the next four years, created at National Convention. Lofty
28 / 43
rhetoric and specific legislative goals. Can cause splin-
tering (example: southern whites abandoned Democratic
Party in 1948 when it adopted a pro-civil rights plank.
236. Blanket Primary Anyone can vote in any party primaries (like open pri-
mary) but voters not limited to one party (can vote for
example in Democratic presidential primary and Repub-
lican senate primary). Least amount of party control over
process.Declared unconstitutional (violates party's free-
dom to associate)
237. 1968 DNC Democratic party leaders (superdelegates) secure nom-

ination of VP Hubert Humphrey even though he did not
compete in any state primaries. Controversy led to the
Fraser-McGovern Commission and related reforms.
238. Fraser-McGov- A Democratic Party commission after 1968 that made

ern Commission changes to delegate selection process for National Con-
vention to make the nomination process more democ-
ratic (by using primaries & ending superdelegates) and
introduced affirmative action policy in delegate selection
(more women & minorities).
239. Superdelegates "Unpledged Delegates" (usually important party mem-

bers) at national party convention (about 20% of total
delegates) who, unlike "pledged delegates" selected in
primaries or caucuses, are not committed to a particular
candidate. Used by party leaders to retain some control
over candidate selection. Can be important in close races
(like Obama vs. Hillary Clinton in 2008)
240. Primary Front- The tendency of states to move their primaries & caucus-
loading es earlier in the calendar in order to maximize their impact
on nomination process (bandwagon effect).
241. National Conven- Party members that vote at the National Convention to se-
tion Delegates lect the party candidate for president. Pledged delegates
follow the wishes of voters in primaries and caucuses.
Unpledged "superdelegates" vote for whoever they want.
29 / 43
242. Presidential Nomination process is too long and too expensive. One
Nomination reform idea is to have a single national primary on one
Reform day (but this would require runoff election and would hurt
less well known candidates who need time to establish
their candidacy)
243. Federal Election First major federal law (1971) to regulate federal elections.
Campaign Act Created Federal Election Commission (FEC). Required
disclosure of sources of campaign funds (transparency),
set limits on contributions to candidates (individuals =
$1000, PACs = $5000), spending limits for candidates,
limits on independent expenditures.
244. Political Action A committee set up by a corporation or interest group to

Committee raise and funnels money to political candidates. Donation
amounts to PACs are limited by FECA rules (hard money).
245. Buckley v Valeo 1974 campaign finance case declared some federal limits
on campaign contributions in FECA violated First Amend-
ment (ex. maximum spending limit and limits on candi-
dates' spending their own money).
246. Presidential Qualified presidential candidates can receive matching

Election federal funds in primary and set amount to spend on
Campaign Fund general elections (but cannot raise & spend additional
money). Attempt to limit campaign spending & corruption
but rejected by Obama in 2008 (too easy to raise more
money by contributions)
247. Soft Money Money that is not subject to campaign finance limits
and regulation by the FEC. All money before FECA was
soft money. FECA shut down unlimited contributions to
candidates so soft money flowed to political parties. Mc-
Cain-Feingold shut down soft money contributions to po-
litical parties so now unlimited contributions flow to 527s
and Super-Pacs.
248. Bipartisan Cam- Banned soft money donations to political parties (loop-
paign Reform hole from FECA); also imposed restrictions on 527 inde-
Act pendent expenditures (issue ads only, not direct advocacy
30 / 43
for a candidate). Declared unconstitutional by Citizens
United case. Also known as McCain-Feingold Act.
249. Independent Ex- Electioneering by third parties (527s or SuperPacs) to

penditures help a candidate get elected (without coordinating with
candidates). Protected by Supreme Court in Citizens
United as free speech and so cannot be limited by federal
law.
250. Citizens United v A 2010 decision by the United States Supreme Court
FEC holding that independent expenditures are free speech
protected by the 1st Amendment and so cannot be limited
by federal law. Leads to creation of SuperPACs & massive
rise in amount of third party electioneering (Citizens for a
Better Tomorrow, Tomorrow)
251. Republican Party One of the two major modern American political parties. It
emerged in the 1850s as an antislavery party and consist-
ed of former northern Whigs and antislavery Democrats.
Now the party is conservative (pro-life, anti-affirmative ac-
tion, anti-too much government intervention, anti-taxing
on the rich, pro-death penalty)
252. Party Caucus One way for a state party to select delegates to send to
(modern) the National Convention. Consists of a series of meetings
(local, county, state) among party members (no "open
caucuses").
253. Affirmative Ac- Government or business policies favoring a historical-

tion ly disadvantaged minority group (university admissions,
hiring decisions); raises 14th Amendment equal protec-
tion problems (reverse discrimination); limited by Bakke
v. University of California (race can be "plus factor" in
admissions but no racial quota system)
254. Campaign Tac- Mobilize party base (ideologues)

tics Focus on key interest groups (group benefit voters)
Focus on candidate's personality / experience (image
voters)
31 / 43
Spin the last four years (retrospective / na-
ture-of-the-times voters)
255. Attack Ad Negative ad attacking opposing candidate (ex., swift boat

veterans, willie horton); proliferating with independent Su-
perPAC spending (you ain't seen nothin' yet!)
256. Bush v. Gore 5-4 Supreme Court declared that Florida vote recount
violated equal protection clause (some votes would be
examined more closely than others); ended Gore's chal-
lenge to 2000 election results. Power of judicial review
(effectively decided 2000 election).
257. 527 Organization An independent organization set up to influence the out-

come of an election; can receive unlimited "soft money"
donations but cannot directly advocate for a particular
candidate or have any connection to a candidate. Ren-
dered obsolete by Citizens United.
258. Baker v. Carr Equal protection clause requires "one man, one vote"
principle for redistricting (legislative districts must be
roughly equal in population)
259. Democratic Par- Demographics: Racial minorities, Jews, Women (gender

ty gap), Labor Unions, Poor
Ideology: Center-left coalition... support liberal economic
& social policies (government aid, gay marriage, no death
penalty, tax on wealthy). (liberalism is a dirty word in
America)
260. Republican Party Demographics: White, Protestants, Corporations, Rich

Ideology: Conservative (cut taxes, cut spending, emd wel-
fare, support traditional marriage...). Center-right coalition
(more conservative than Democratic Party is liberal, es-
pecially with rise of Tea Party faction since 2008)
261. Voter Turnout About 50-60% of eligible voters in Presidential elections;

much less in midyear elections (30-40%)
262.
32 / 43
Congressional Incumbent= current office-holder running for re-election.
Incumbency Incumbent reelection rates VERY high (90+%); higher in
House than Senate b/c Senate has stronger challengers.
Incumbents lose because of scandal, general anti-incum-
bent anger...
263. Electoral College Constitutional Amendment (won't happen)

Reform Proportional allocation of electors (reduces importance of
state)
Tell electors to vote for winner of national popular vote?
264. Faithless Elector Electors that don't vote for the person they promised to
vote for;
Occurred 156 times (never affected outcome of election)
Major problem with Electoral College
265. Sound Bites Quote or "snippet" from politician's speech used by media
to represent whole speech. Used by candidates to spread
message (slogan); Used by media to avoid serious (bor-
ing) discussion of issues.
266. Sunshine Laws Law requiring agency meetings and decision-making

process to be open to the public. One way of making
agencies more accountable to Congress and the public.
267. Fairness Doc- Old FCC rule requiring media stations to provide different
trine viewpoints for any controversial political issue
268. Equal Time Rule FCC rule requiring media stations to offer advertising time
to all candidates if they offer it to one candidate.
269. Federal Commu- Federal agency that regulates the radio, television, wire,
nications Com- satellite and cable communications.
mission
270. Elite Theory Belief that American democracy is a sham; we really live
in a plutocracy. The Constitution was written by rich white
men for rich white men.
271. Pluralist Theory

33 / 43
Belief that American political system basically works;
competing interest groups all get heard at different times
and places in government. Federalism helps (more layers
of government).
272. Hyperpluralist Pluralism gone wrong; belief that government is paralyzed

Theory by too many interest groups demanding things too many
things from government
273. Federalist 10 Topic = factions (interest groups); minority factions con-

trolled by majority; majority faction controlled by greater
size of USA + virtuous leaders
274. Federalist 51 Separation of powers & checks & balances protects

against tyranny
275. Executive Enu- Commander-in-chief of armed forces; pardon power (ex-

merated Powers cept for impeachment); treaty power; appointment power;
veto power
276. Concurrent Pow- Powers that are given to both federal and state govern-
ers ments. Ex., the power to tax and create courts. Exclusive
powers are given only to one level of government (ex., the
power to declare war)
277. Full Faith & Cred- States must recognize laws & judicial decisions of other
it Clause states (ex., marriage, child support payments); public pol-
icy exception for gay marriage?
278. Defense of Mar- Federal law defining marriage as man-woman & declaring
riage Act (1996) that no state is forced to recognize same-sex marriage
(unconstitutional exception to full faith & credit clause?)
279. Unfunded Man- Federal laws that require the states to do things without
dates providing the money to do so. Examples: ADA (wheelchair
ramps), NCLB (AIMs testing)
280. US v. Lopez Supreme Court declared Gun Free School Zones Act
(1995) exceeded Congress's Interstate Commerce Clause pow-
er and was therefore unconstitutional. First federal law
34 / 43
declared to exceed commerce clause since the 1930s
(Devolution Revolution?)
281. Bill of Rights First ten amendments to the Constitution; major source of
civil liberties; applies to states via selective incorporation
doctrine; promised to Anti-Federalists to secure ratifica-
tion of Constitution
282. Establishment 1st Amendment clause: Congress cannot "establish"

Clause a religion. Accomodationists (establishment = govern-
ment-funded religion) vs. Separationists (establishment =
ANY involvement with religion); Lemon test
283. Engle v. Vitale Mandatory nondenominational school prayer violates Es-

(1992) tablishment Clause (see also Santa Fe School District v.
Doe striking down student-led prayer at school football
games)
284. Lemon v. Kurtz- Lemon Test for Establishment Clause

man (1971) (1) Primary purpose and effect of law must be secular; (2)
Law cannot create "excessive entanglement" of govern-
ment with religion (subjective standard)
285. Free Exercise 1st Amendment clause; Government cannot make a law
Clause prohibiting the free exercise of religion. Beliefs are 100%
protected but religious practices are not exempt from
neutral laws that affect everyone (ex., polygamy & illegal
drugs)
286. Free Speech 1st Amendment clause; Congress can make no law
Clause abridging freedom of speech (including symbolic speech);
Gitlow v. NY incorporates clause into 14th Amendment.
287. Fighting Words One major category of unprotected speech (basically ver-
Doctrine bal assault); Exception created in Chaplinsky v. NH (1942)
288. Clear & Present Used in Schenck v. US (1919) to determine whether

Danger Test speech is unprotected "incitement" to illegal activity. Re-
placed by stricter "imminent lawless action" test in Bran-
denburg v. Ohio (1969)
35 / 43
289. Free Press 1st Amendment Clause: Congress shall make no law
Clause abridging freedom of the press. No prior restraints unless
major national security threat (Pentagon Papers Case).
Major protection against libel (NY Times v. Sullivan).
290. Prior Restraint Government censorship of written material (preventing

publication). Almost impossible due to 1st Amendment
(only when major threat to national security). See Penta-
gon Papers Case (NY Times v. US)
291. Patriot Act (2001) Law responding to 9/11. Expands anti-terrorist powers
(wiretapping, surveillance); 4th Amendment concern for
civil liberties.
292. Procedural Due Literal meaning of 5th & 14th Due Process Clauses:
Process Government cannot deprive you of life, liberty or property
without holding certain procedures (trial, lawyer, right to
question witnesses). Many elements of PDP are specifi-
cally protected by 5th, 6th, 7th & 8th Amendments.
293. Cruzan v. Mis- 1990 case declining to extend the constitutional right to
souri privacy to include the right to die (assisted suicide). Three
states currently allow assisted suicide. It is a serious
crime everywhere else.
294. Title IX Major anti-gender discrimination law that applies to uni-

versities and schools that accept federal funding. Contro-
versial because many universities cut male sports pro-
grams so as not to violate Title IX.
295. Equal Rights Proposed constitutional amendment requiring full equal

Amendment treatment for men and women (ex. allow women special
forces). Proposed by Congress in 1972 but never ratified
296. Americans With Major anti-discrimination law for disabled; requires ac-
Disabilities Act cess (ramps, braille, etc.); unfunded mandate
(1990)
297.
36 / 43
Don't Ask Don't Compromise gay policy in military from 1993; finally end-
Tell ed by Obama in 2011.
298. Lawrence v. State laws making sodomy (gay sex) a crime violate equal
Texas (2003) protection clause (fails rational basis test because only
possible reason for law is homophobia)
299. Congressional Evolved as a way for Congress to handle large and com-
Committee plex work-load; divides up law-making into major subject
System areas; major responsibility for debating & marking up bills
+ oversight of execution of laws (the bureaucracy)
300. Constituent Ser- Services a congressperson provides for his/her con-

vices stituents (ex., helping with government claims like social
security & veterans benefits)
301. Legislative Veto Power of Congress to veto executive decisions & actions;
declared unconstitutional in INS v. Chadha (1983) (vio-
lates separation of powers)
302. Congressional Non-partisan legislative support agency (economists) to

Budget Office analyze President's Budget Proposal & how much pro-
(CBO) grams and budget items will cost. Goal is to aid the
Congressional budget process.
303. White House Closest presidential advisor ("Jafar"). PowerfulgGate-

Chief of Staff keeper in pyramidal system; does not require senate con-
firmation
304. White House Member of White House staff that controls flow of infor-
Press Secretary mation from president, holds daily press briefings, tries to
spin/control media
305. Council of Eco- Three economic experts to help president understand

nomic Advisors and develop economic policy; must be confirmed by sen-
ate
306. Line Item Veto Law giving president power to veto portions of budget
bill; purpose = reduce size of national deficit; declared
unconstitutional (violates separation of powers)
37 / 43
307. Chief Justice Chief Justice from 1953-1969; led activist liberal court;
Earl Warren known for cases expanding rights of criminal defendants
(Mapp v Ohio, Gideon v Wainwright, Miranda v Arizona)
308. Chief Justice Current Chief Justice (appointed by Bush in 2005); moved
John Robers court in conservative direction; known for pro-corporation
cases (Citizens United)
309. Government Cor- Corporation set up and run by the government; provides
poration a service to the public (ex. US Postal Service)
310. Iron Triangle Creation of powerful (iron) relationship of mutual benefit

& support among congressional committee, government
agency and regulated interest group(s). Can lead to cor-
ruption and "agency capture" (where the agency is con-
trolled by the target of regulation). Problem exacerbated
by revolving door.
311. Proposition 209 1996 California initiative that banned all affirmative action
programs.
312. Planned Parent- 1992 abortion case that applied new flexible test (instead
hood v. Casey of rigid trimester framework of Roe v Wade): Does state
regulation of abortion place "undue burden" on women's
right to an abortion? Court used test to uphold some
regulations like waiting periods and parental notification
for minors.
313. Judicial Appoint- Political ideology (litmus test); acceptability to Senate (not
ment Factors too radical); judicial experience; diversity
314. Narrowcasting The modern media trend for TV and radio shows to tar-
get very narrow ideological audiences (ex. conservatives
watch Glenn Beck and Bill O'Reilly); results in greater
political polarization
315. Spin The attempt of politicians to cast their words & actions in
the most flattering light (propaganda, distortion)
38 / 43
316. Grassroots Poli- Political action on the local level by ordinary citizens (the
tics roots): fundraising, volunteering, get-out-the-vote activi-
ties (knocking on doors); important function of local party
organization
317. Political Partici- Main form = voting. Also joining political party, volunteer-
pation ing on political campaign, campaign contributions, run-
ning for office, protests...
318. Election Timeline Phase 1: Invisible Primary (year prior to election year) -
exploratory committees, straw polls, media exposure...
Phase 2: Front-Loaded Primaries, including Super Tues-
day (Jan-Feb of election year)
Phase 3: Remaining primaries & caucuses (March-June
of election year)
Phase 4: Nominating Convention (July/August)
Phase 5: The General Election Campaign (from Labor
Day)
Phase 6: Election Day (November)
319. Invisible Primary Informal raising of support (and money) before first pri-
maries
320. Democratic Par- Major supporters of Democratic Party = African-Ameri-

ty Coalition cans, Jews, Women, Labor Union members, poor people
(modern)
321. Republican Party Major supporters of Republican Party = WASPs, business

Coalition (mod- people, the rich
ern)
322. Voter Turnout Low in America compared to other western democracies

(50-60% for presidential elections; 40-50% for midterms)
323. Faithless Elector Elector who does not vote for the candidate they promised
to vote for. These have never determined outcome of
presidential election but is a major problem with electoral
college system
324. Mapp v Ohio

39 / 43
1961 case incorporating 4th Amendment (and exclusion-
ary rule) into 14th Amendment DPC, binding on states.
325. Chaplinsky v 1942 case establishing "fighting words" category of un-

U.S. protected speech.
326. President's Bud- Detailed budget outline prepared by President & OMB.
get Proposal Sets priorities in discretionary spending & proposes
changes to entitlement programs. Start of annual budget
process.
327. Voting Rights Federal law protecting against racial discrimination in vot-
Act (1965) ing. Major accomplishment of civil rights movement vs.
Jim Crow. Bans all discriminatory voting procedures. Re-
quires ballots to be printed in minority languages. Section
5 = federal policing of states with history of discrimination
(still necessary?)
328. Police Powers The power of a government to make laws protecting the
health, safety and welfare of citizens (example: traffic
laws, criminal laws). In America, police powers are re-
served to the states by the 10th Amendment.
329. Habeas Corpus The right to challenge the legality of your detention by
government (to have a judge determine whether or not the
government can detain you). This right can be temporarily
suspended by Congress in times of rebellion or unrest.
330. Ex Post Facto Laws that punish conduct that was not illegal when it was
Laws performed. These laws are always unconstitutional. Also
known as a retroactive law.
331. Bill of Attainder Laws that punish individuals or groups without a trial.
These laws are always unconstitutional.
332. Incumbent Ad- Name recognition, campaign contributions, credit-claim-

vantages ing (pork & casework).
333. Legislative Over- Congress making sure the Executive Branch and the
sight Bureaucracy is correctly executing (carrying out) laws.
40 / 43
334. Temporary As- Federal block grant to provide cash assistance for poor
sistance to families ("welfare program"). Each state can design its
Needy Families own program. Replaces Aid to Families With Dependent
(TANF) Children (AFDC) which was a categorical grant.
335. Class Action Allows an entire class of people who have been hurt in a
Lawsuit similar manner by the same person or corporation to join
together in one legal suit. (Example: AT&T overcharging
10 million customers 1 cent a month for a year).
336. Anarchism Belief in the abolition of all government (maybe through

violent means)
337. Social liberalism Belief in government assistance to improve society, espe-

cially for the poor and minorities. Socially liberal policies
include universal health care, public education, affirma-
tive action, welfare programs
338. Lobbying The act of trying to influence a politician or bureaucrat.

Usually lobbyists are highly paid insiders with access
to people in power (revolving door). Major weapon of
corporate interest groups.
339. Civil Disobedi- Intentional breaking of a law to protest against the law.
ence Thoreau vs. Mexican-American War, Rosa Parks & MLK
vs. Jim Crow segregation.
340. Motor Voter Act Tried to increase voter turnout by allowing voter registra-
(1993) tion at same time as getting or renewing driver's license.
Increased the registration rate, but not the voter turnout
rate (people still apathetic or not motivated to vote)
341. Electioneering Activity that seeks to influence the outcome of an elec-

tion. Independent electioneering (SuperPacs & 527s) is
protected free speech and so cannot be limited by gov-
ernment.
342. Grassroots Ac- Electioneering and issue advocacy by ordinary & unpaid
tivism citizens (the roots of American political system). Exam-
41 / 43
ples include Tea Party, youth activism in Obama 2008.
Compare with "Astroturf Activism" - fake grassroots ef-
forts (paid for by political interests).
343. Super-PAC Organization set up after Citizens United to engage in

independent electioneering. Can receive unlimited dona-
tions but cannot coordinate with a candidate. Causing
amount of money spent on elections to skyrocket (Super-
Pacs have spent $85 million so far in Election 2012)
344. Monetarism Belief in limited government intervention to combat reces-

sion & promote economic growth. Major tool = increasing
or decreasing money supply to avoid inflation & maintain
price stability.
345. Keynesianism Belief in aggressive government intervention to combat

recession & promote economic growth, especially by
massive federal spending ("stimulus")
346. The New Deal Series of liberal (Keynesian) economic laws enacted by
FDR to combat Great Depression. Includes Social Secu-
rity System & federal minimum wage law. Birth of Demo-
cratic Party as liberal party (soft electoral realignment)
347. Horse-Race Media tends to cover elections like a sporting event be-
Journalism cause it generates excitement (who is ahead, who is
behind) & it is easy to do (poll data). HRJ is bad because
it reduces time spent on analysis of issues & it can create
a bandwagon effect in coverage of elections ("Romney
looks like he will win this one...")
348. Brown v. Board Overrules Plessy v. Ferguson (no stare decisis). Racial
of Education segregation violates 14th Amendment Equal Protection
(1954) Clause ("separate is inherently unequal")
349. Korematsu v. Internment of Japanese-Americans during WWII does not

United States violate 14th Amendment Equal Protection Clause (gets
(1944) strict scrutiny but national security is a good enough
reason to justify the racial discrimination).
42 / 43
350. Miranda v. Ari- 5th Amendment self-incrimination clause requires gov-
zona (1966) ernment agents to warn suspects of their right to remain
silent and/or contact an attorney before questioning them
when they are in custody. Statements made without Mi-
randa Warning are inadmissible in court (like the exclu-
sionary rule for evidence)
351. Roe v. Wade Establishes a woman's constitutional right to an abortion

(1973) (in limited circumstances). Court held that abortion is
part of the right to privacy, which itself is part of the
concept of liberty in the 14th Amendment ("substantive
due process"). Major goal for conservatives to overturn
Roe.
352. Confederation Central government set up by Articles of Confederation

Congress (1781-89). No executive or judicial branches. Unicameral
legislature with no power to tax or regulate interstate
commerce (intentionally weak to prevent tyranny). One
state one vote, supermajority (9/13) to pass important
laws, unanimous vote to amend (our constitution is un-
constitutional!)
353. Substantive Due Creative/activist interpretation of 5th and 14th Due

Process Process Clauses. "Liberty" protected by the DPC includes
substantive "fundamental rights" like rights protected by
Bill of Rights (leads to incorporation doctrine) and other
rights like the right to privacy.
354. Department Sec- Head of one of the 15 cabinet-level agencies ("Secre-

retary tary" of Justice is called Attorney General). Divided loyalty
between President and agency they command. Must be
confirmed by Senate.
355. Watergate Scan- Nixon's "friends" broke into Democratic National Commit-
dal tee HQ during 1972 election, then Nixon tried to cover up
White House involvement. Example of media muckraking
(Woodward & Bernstein). Led to resignation of Richard
Nixon.
43 / 43

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AP GOVERNMENT REVIEW SET

Study online at https://quizlet.com/_6uls9

1. 10th Amendment Powers not expressly given to federal government by the

2. 13th Amendment Abolished slavery. First of three "Reconstruction Amend-

5. 16th Amendment Power of Congress to tax income

6. 17th Amendment Established the direct election of senators (instead of

8. 1st Amendment Freedom of religion (establishment & free exercise claus-

9. 22nd Amend- Limits the president to two terms.

10. 23rd Amendment Gives Washington DC electoral college votes as if it were

11. 24th Amendment Abolishes poll taxes

13. 2nd Amendment

14. 4th Amendment No "unreasonable" searches and seizures. Exclusionary

15. 5th Amendment (1) No Self-Incrimination (Miranda)

17. 7th Amendment Right to jury in civil trials.

19. 9th Amendment Unenumerated Rights Amendment. Citizens have unenu-

20. Constitution A nation's basic law, creates political institutions, assigns

21. Agents of Social- Family (most important); TV/media (growing in impor-

23. Anti-Federalists A group who opposed the ratification of the Constitution in

24. Articles of Con- Set up the 1st independent American government

27. Casework Assistance given to individual constituents by congres-

32. Commerce Art. 1, Sec. 8 of the Constitution (enumerated power).

33. Confederation Nonbinding union of sovereign states (example = Euro-

35. Connecticut Solves big state-little state debate over representation in

37. Condition of Aid A technique of fiscal federalism used by Congress to

38. Department of Cabinet-level agency in charge of the armed forces and

39. Department of Cabinet-level agency in charge of foreign policy & inter-

42. Doctrine of Im- Established by CJ Marshall in McCulloch v. Maryland.

44. Electoral College

46. Exclusionary Evidence obtained in violation of 4th Amendment is not

48. Federalism A system of government in which power is divided be-

50. Federalists Supporters of the new constitution in 1787. Supported a

53. Franking Privi- The right of congresspeople to send job-related mail to

56. Gerrymandering The drawing of district boundaries by the state legislature

62. Jacksonian The first major opening up of American suffrage (voting

64. John Locke Father of political liberalism (limited government to pro-

66. Defamation False and malicious (mean) writings ("libel") or speech

70. McCulloch v. (1) CJ Marshall establishes doctrine of implied powers

71. Economic Liber- Belief in strong government intervention in the economy

76. 1883 reform law that replaced the patronage/spoils sys-

77. Pocket Veto If a bill is proposed within 10 days of congress adjourning

79. Political Social- The process by which individuals acquire (absorb) a

81. Earmarking Practice of congressmen of securing ("appropriating")

88. Republic Representative democracy. Sovereignty rests with the

89. Sampling Error The % margin of error of a survey. Randomized polls

91. Separation of The principle of dividing governmental powers among dif-

92. Shays' Rebellion Failed rebellion in 1786 by poor farmers in MA against

100. US v. Morrison Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) unconstitutional

102. White Primary A form of restricting African American's 15th Amendment

103. World Trade Or- Economic organization to promote global wealth.

104. Measurement Er- An error in collecting polling data. Example = response

105. Libertarianism Belief in as much freedom and as little government as

106. Socialism A policial ideology that opposes capitalism and supports

107. Declaration of In- Thomas Jefferson's statement of political liberalism (lim-

108. Philadelphia 12 states send delegates to revise the Articles of Con-

109. South Dakota v. Congress is allowed to attach "strings" (conditions of aid)

114. Policy Election An election in which voters vote on a particular policy

115. Congressional Association of members created to support a political

121. Appropriations Decide how to spend money allocated to each spending

123. Subcommittees A group within a standing committee that specializes in

124. Conference A joint committee appointed to resolve differences in the

125. Joint Commit- Congressional committees to discuss & supervise certain

126. Select Commit- Temporary congressional committees appointed for a

127. Committee Leader of a congressional committee. Usually the longest