Congress

Question 1

Congress and Representation (x5)

Answer 1

Midterms should update Congress regularly

High levels of incumbency (97% in 2016)

Gerrymandering so no competition e.g. North Carolina Snake

Lack of descriptive representation as in 2017 non-whites were 38% of US population but 19% of Congress

Porkbarrelling benefits incumbents e.g. Byrnes

Question 2

Porkbarrelling

Answer 2

In 2016, Congressman Byrnes supported $475 million on a new navy ship as he represented Alabama which has major ship building companies

Question 3

Congress and Legislation (x5)

Answer 3

The president can perform ‘pocket vetoes’

In 2015-2017, 10078 bills were introduced but only 329 were sent to be signed by the President

The Supreme Court overturns acts of Congress

Senators can filibuster, which is disruptive rather than productive

A gridlock can occur when the Congress is divided e.g. 2010

Question 4

Types of Power of Congress (x3)

Answer 4

Concurrent powers are shared between the Senate and the House such as amending the Constitution, declaring war and passing legislation

Reserved powers belong solely to the states, such as intra-state trade and schools

Exclusive powers belong to one chamber in Congress, such as how only the Senate can confirm Supreme Court appointments, ratify treaties and convict the president

Only The House can initiate revenue bills

Question 5

Congress

Answer 5

The Connecticut Congress established a bicameral legislature, with a PR chamber as supported by the Virginia Plan and an equally representative chamber as supported by the New Jersey Plan

House elected every 2 years, Senate elections every 6 years (but staggered)

Question 6

Functions of Congress

Answer 6

Representation

Legislation