Culture and Politics of the USA

Question 1

US Constitution

Answer 1

1787- Has changed very little since, centrepiece document. All laws/actions made by Federal or State government must abide by the Constitution.

Question 2

Executive Branch

Answer 2

The President- elected every 4 years, can’t serve over 2 terms, is head of state+Commander-in-Chief, suggests laws to Congress, can veto bills, appoints cabinet, makes proposals for federal budget.

Question 3

Legislative Branch

Answer 3

Congress- Senate+House of Representatives. Makes laws, override a veto, impeach+remove President, votes on finance for government
Senate- 2 senators per state (100), serve six year terms
House of Representatives- 435, proportional to population of state, elected every two years

Question 4

Judicial Branch

Answer 4

Supreme Court- Highest court, decides if laws are constitutional, 9 judges nominated by President, approved by Congress

Question 5

State Government

Answer 5

Has power over internal affairs, eg state taxation rates, crime and punishment, policing, transport etc
Federal government takes precedent on national and international issues.