Legitimacy of the Judicial Branch in AP Government

The video discusses the legitimacy of the judicial branch, focusing on the Supreme Court's power of judicial review and its role in policy making. It highlights the controversy surrounding unelected judges making policy decisions and explains the concept of precedent and stare decisis. The video also examines the impact of Supreme Court appointments on ideological shifts within the court, using historical examples to illustrate these changes. Finally, it concludes with a call to action for viewer engagement.

What is the basis of the Supreme Court's power to make policy?

• The election of judges

• Executive orders

• Legislative approval

• Judicial review

What does 'legislating from the bench' refer to?

• Judges running for legislative office

• Judges making policy decisions

• Legislators interpreting laws

• The legislative branch appointing judges

What principle allows the Supreme Court to rule laws unconstitutional?

• Federal mandate

• Judicial review

• Legislative authority

• Executive privilege

What term describes the Supreme Court's practice of following previous rulings?

• Judicial legislation

• Judicial activism

• Precedent principle

• Stare decisis

What does the Latin term 'stare decisis' mean?

• To stand by things decided

• To overturn precedent

• To judge with bias

• To legislate anew

Who confirms the appointment of a Supreme Court justice?

• The Attorney General

• The Senate

• The President

• The House of Representatives

How do Supreme Court justices typically time their retirement?

• Based on health

• After a significant ruling

• Based on age

• When a president of their ideological preference is in office

Who nominates federal judges, including Supreme Court justices?

• The Chief Justice

• The President

• The Vice President

• The Senate

What is a major consequence of appointing a new Supreme Court justice?

• Immediate change in court location

• Increase in legislative power

• Shift in the court's ideological balance

• Reduction in the number of cases heard

What was a significant effect of Justice Kennedy's retirement?

• No significant change

• A decrease in judicial review cases

• A shift towards a more conservative court

• An increase in liberal rulings