Congress stuff Flashcards
Unified Government
The same party controls the White House and both houses of Congress.
Gridlock
The inability of the government to act because rival parties control different parts of the government.
Electoral College
The people chosen to cast each state’s votes in a presidential election. Each state receives one electoral vote for each member of Congress that they have. The District of Columbia has 3 electoral votes.
Bully Pulpit
The president’s use of his prestige and visibility to guide or enthuse the American Public
Veto Message
A message from The President to Congress stating that he will not sign congress’ bill. This message must be sent within 10 days of the bill’s arrival to the president
Pocket Veto
A bill fails to become law if the president did not sign it and congress adjourns in less than 10 days.
Line item veto
The ability to block a particular provision of the bill. The president CANNOT do this.
Signing Statement
A presidential document that reveals what the president thinks of a new law and how it should be enforced
Pyramid Structure
A president’s subordinates report to him through a clear chain of command headed by a chief of staff
Circular structure
Several of the president’s assistants report directly to him
Ad hoc structure
Several subordinates, cabinet officers, and committees report directly to the president on different matters.
Legislative Veto
The authority of congress to block a presidential action after it has taken place the Supreme Court has held that congress does not have this power
Impeachment
Charges against a president approved by a majority of the House of Representives.
Divided Government
One party controls the White House and another party controls one or both houses of Congress
