Unit 2 Vocab (A) Flashcards
Based on population with 435 members serving 2-year terms
The House of Representatives
Based on two delegates from each state serving 6 year terms
Senate
Groups within Congress that align for specific policy goals
Coalitions
Include lawmaking, oversight, and the power of the purse. These also include many of the Expressed Powers in Article I, Sec. 8.
Powers of Congress
Most powerful position in the House of Representatives. Elected by the representatives
Speaker of the House
Meetings held by Congress to gather information, investigate issues, or question officials as part of legislative or oversight responsibilities.
Congressional Hearings
A powerful committee that determines when a bill will be subject to debate and vote on the House floor, how long the debate will last, and whether amendments will be allowed on the floor.
House Rules Committee
Consists of all members of the House and meets in the House chamber but is governed by different rules, making it easier to consider complex and controversial legislation.
The Committee of the Whole
The manipulation of electoral district boundaries to favor a particular party or group.
Gerrymandering
The redrawing of electoral district boundaries, usually after a census, to reflect population changes.
Redistricting
Government spending directed to a legislator’s district for specific projects, often criticized as wasteful.
Pork Barrel
The practice of legislators exchanging votes to gain support for their respective bills or initiatives.
Logrolling
Situations where political disagreements between parties or branches hinder legislative progress.
Gridlock/partisan division
Occurs when different parties control the presidency and Congress.
Divided Government
