Lecture 2 - Congress & the Executive Branch Flashcards
What does Article I of the U.S. Constitution establish?
It establishes Congress, consisting of the Senate and the House of Representatives.
What are the main responsibilities of Congress?
Legislation, constituent services, oversight, advice and consent, impeachment.
What powers does Congress have in foreign policy?
Declares war, regulates foreign trade, ratifies treaties, approves ambassadors.
How does the ‘necessary and proper’ clause affect Congressional power?
Allows Congress to make laws necessary to execute its powers.
What is the role of the Speaker of the House?
Decides which bills get to the floor and leads the House of Representatives.
What are the responsibilities of the Senate?
Impeachment trials, ratifying treaties, approving presidential appointments.
What are the checks and balances between Congress and the President?
Can override vetoes, control funding, approve appointments, and impeach the President.
How does Congress check the power of the Supreme Court?
Approves appointments, sets the size of the Court, can impeach justices.
How is the Senate different from the House of Representatives?
Senators serve six-year terms and represent states, while Representatives serve two-year terms and represent districts.
What are the key elements of the Electoral College system?
Electors are chosen by states; 270 electoral votes are needed to win the presidency.
What powers are vested in the President by Article II of the U.S. Constitution?
Vests executive power in the President, includes the Commander in Chief role.
What is the role of the President in foreign policy?
Negotiates treaties, appoints ambassadors, and commands the armed forces.
How does the President check the power of Congress?
Can veto legislation, call special sessions of Congress, and interpret laws.
What are the main sources of Presidential power?
Party relations, public outreach (bully pulpit), political appointments, bureaucracy.
What is the role of the Vice President in the Senate?
Casts tie-breaking votes in the Senate.
What powers does the President have in relation to the Supreme Court?
Nominates justices, can pardon federal offenders, and refuse to enforce decisions.