US Congress Flashcards
What is tyranny
Oppression or cruel rule
What is bicameral
Describes a legislature made up of two chambers
What is popular sovereignty
All gov authority is derived from the consent of the people being governed
- the house represents popular sovereignty
When did the senate become an elected chamber
Following the 17th amendment 1913
What is an election cycle
The time period over which elections occur
What is a midterm election
Elections for the US congress that take place in the middle of a full presidential term
What is gerrymandering
The shaping of congressional districts to give one party a political advantage
How often is a congressional election
Every 2 years
What was the result of the 2022 midterm election
Biden lost the house to the republicans but the senate remained democrat
Significance of incumbency in elections
- name recognition over competitors
Meaning they have an advantage in raising campaign finance - congressional advantages : provided with a website
- franking privileges: cost of mailing to their constituents is provided for by congress
How often are the senate elections
1/3 of senate up for election every 2 years
