Legislative Branch 2.1-2.3 Flashcard

Front

What type of legislature is the U.S. Congress?

Back

Bicameral

Answer explanation

The U.S. Congress is a bicameral legislature, meaning it has two chambers: the House of Representatives and the Senate. This structure allows for a system of checks and balances within the legislative process.

Front

The Great Compromise resulted in which system of representation?

Back

Equal state representation in the Senate, population-based in the House

Answer explanation

The Great Compromise established a bicameral legislature with equal representation for states in the Senate and population-based representation in the House, balancing the interests of both large and small states.

Front

What is the term length for a U.S. Senator?

Back

6 years

Answer explanation

A U.S. Senator serves a term of 6 years. This is established by the Constitution, ensuring stability and continuity in the Senate, as opposed to the shorter terms of Representatives, which are 2 years.

Front

Who originally elected U.S. Senators before the 17th Amendment?

Back

State legislatures

Answer explanation

Before the 17th Amendment, U.S. Senators were elected by state legislatures, not directly by citizens. This system was established to ensure that states had a direct role in federal governance.

Front

What power is unique to the House of Representatives?

Back

Originating revenue bills

Answer explanation

The House of Representatives has the unique power to originate revenue bills, meaning all tax-related legislation must start in this chamber, distinguishing it from the Senate's powers.

Front

What is required for Congress to override a presidential veto?

Back

A two-thirds majority in both chambers

Answer explanation

To override a presidential veto, Congress needs a two-thirds majority in both chambers. This ensures that a significant majority supports the decision to counter the President's veto.

Front

Which committee controls the flow of legislation in the House?

Back

Rules Committee

Answer explanation

The Rules Committee controls the flow of legislation in the House by determining the rules for debate and the schedule for bills. This makes it a key player in the legislative process.

Front

What is the purpose of a conference committee?

Back

To reconcile differences between House and Senate versions of a bill

Answer explanation

The purpose of a conference committee is to reconcile differences between House and Senate versions of a bill, ensuring that both chambers agree on the final text before it is sent to the President.

Front

Which rule allows a filibuster in the Senate to be ended?

Back

Rule 22 (Cloture Rule)

Answer explanation

Rule 22, known as the Cloture Rule, allows the Senate to end a filibuster by invoking cloture, which requires a supermajority vote. This rule is essential for limiting debate and moving forward with legislation.

Front

Which principle was established in Baker v. Carr (1962)?

Back

One person, one vote

Answer explanation

The principle established in Baker v. Carr (1962) is "One person, one vote," which mandates that electoral districts must have roughly equal populations to ensure fair representation in government.