US CONGRESS

Question 1

What are the two chambers:

Answer 1

The House of Representatives and the Senate

Question 2

How often is the election cycle?

Answer 2

Every 2 years

Question 3

Powers given to congress by the constitution:

Answer 3

. Legislate, can overturn a presidential veto ith a 2/3s majority in each chamber
. Representation
. Amend the constitution, must be a 2/3 majority in each chamber
. Declare war

Question 4

Exclusive powers of the house:

Answer 4

. Impeach the president
. Elect the president if no candidate gets over 50% of electoral college votes
. Begin consideration of all money bills

Question 5

Exclusive powers of senate:

Answer 5

. Try an impeachment case
. Elect the Vice President, if no candidate has 50% of electoral college vote
. Ratify treaties
. Confirm executive appointments

Question 6

Functions of congress?

Answer 6

. Congressional elections
. Mid term elections
. Significance of incumbency
1. Use of office
2. Safe seats and gerrymandering
3. Pork-barrel legislation
4. Financial advantage

Question 7

Factors affecting voting behaviour within congress?

Answer 7

. Public opinion/constituency
. Party/party leaders
. Caucuses
. Interest groups and professional lobbyists (eg NRA)

Question 8

4 features of legislation process:

Answer 8

. Initiation
. Compromise
. Weak parties and party leaders
. Obstacles to success