Study Guide Part 3 Flashcards
What are the qualifications of a Senator?
At least 30 years old, US citizenship (9+ years), must live in the state they plan to represent.
What are the qualifications of a House Representative?
At least 25 years old, US citizenship (7+ years), must live in the state they plan to represent.
What are some non-legislative duties of Congress?
- Regulating interstate agendas
- Raising and spending money
- Dealing with foreign countries
- Proposing constitutional amendments
- Impeachment
What is the Senate filibuster process?
A tactic to delay or block a vote on a measure by preventing debate from ending.
What is required to end a filibuster?
2/3 majority of Senators to invoke cloture.
Who does the filibuster theoretically protect?
Minority rights.
What are some pros of the filibuster?
- Promotes compromise
- Protects minority
- Safeguards purposeful debate in the Senate
- Acts as a safeguard against extremism
What are some cons of the filibuster?
- Promotes obstructionism and partisanship
- Prevents meaningful debate and slows work
- Blocks meaningful legislation
Why is the census mentioned in the constitution?
To carry out an apportionment of representatives among the states every 10 years.
What is the purpose of the census?
To determine the number of seats each state has in the House and to distribute money.
What is the distinction between Reapportionment and Redistricting?
Reapportionment is dividing congressional seats among states based on population; Redistricting is redrawing lines within a state.
What is the main federal requirement for redistricting?
‘Equality standard’ or ‘one person, one vote’.
What are some additional criteria used by states in redistricting?
- Compactness: minimum distance between constituency
- Contiguity: connection throughout district
- Preservation: of other counties and public subdivisions
Is Congress dysfunctional?
Not always; they can get things done when it matters but face polarization and personal differences.
What are some reasons for Congress’s dysfunction?
- Social media/fake news
- Partisanship
- Gerrymandering
- Filibuster
- Need for term limits
