Civics Flashcards
House of Representatives
Lower house of congress.
Senate
The upper house in congress.
Constituent
A person represented by a legislator.
Joint session
When the house and senate meet together.
Census
Population count
Gerrymander
When district lines are drawn to help one party gain voting strength.
Majority party
Party that holds the most seats.
Minority party
Party that does not hold the majority
Seniority
Years of service .
Expressed powers
A power of congress that is listed in the constitution. .
Non legislative powers
A power that is not related to making laws.
Impeach
To accuse a person of doing something wrong.
Writ of habeas corpus
Order that makes sure prisoners are told why they are being held.
Bills of attainder
Laws that punish a person without trial.
Ex post facto laws
These laws make an act of crime after the act has been committed.
Franklins privilege
Members can send job related mail at no cost
Lobbyists
People who represent interest groups.
Casework
Helping people deal with the federal government.
Pork barrel project
When a representative gets federal money mainly for one district or state.
Private bill
Deals with a person or place.
Public bill
Applies to the whole nagion
Joint resolution
A resolution passed by both houses of congress that has the force if law if signed by the president.
Special interest group
A group of people who work together for a common cause.
Riders
Completely unrelated amendments
