Chapter 7: Legislatures
|
|
- Prosper Jones
- 5 years ago
- Views:
Transcription
1 Chapter 7: Legislatures
2 Objectives Explain the role and activities of the legislature. Discuss how the legislatures are organized and how they operate. Identify the characteristics of the state legislators. Describe the relationship between the legislators and public opinion. Smith, K. Greenblatt, A. Governing States and Localities 6e 2
3 Introductions This chapter will discusses state legislatures and how legislative processes vary among the states. Noting the tactics employed by individual legislators motivations and strategies as state legislators. While legislatures share a distinct set of functions lawmaking, representation, oversight, and constituent service legislators tend to respond in ways that work best with their local environmental conditions, political history, political culture, and, most important, constituent interests. Beyond legislative service, state legislatures also vary according to institutional structure and composition. Legislative composition and the relationship between rank-andfile members and legislative leadership have changed dramatically over the decades. Smith, K. Greenblatt, A. Governing States and Localities 6e 3
4 Introductions Not only are legislatures becoming more diverse; individual legislators are also more likely to pursue policy agendas independent of their party s leadership. Party leaders, meanwhile, view the redistricting process as the best way to achieve partisan control. Lastly, we will discuss the rise of the professional legislatures. Legislators are now privy to a variety of resources, including significant increases in legislative staff and salary. All of this has led to an increase in the overall complexity of the governing process. As legislators become more career-oriented politicians, however, public sentiment and approval of legislative activities has eroded. Consequently, numerous states have responded with citizen-initiated provisions limiting the length of legislative service. Smith, K. Greenblatt, A. Governing States and Localities 6e 4
5 Variation Legislature are the board of directors of their states who are empowered to set policy that benefits the state, and that is are then enforced by the governor and the other departments of the executive branch. Legislatures are not designed to be simple, instead they are institutions designed to prevent new laws and policies from being implemented that have not been properly considered and debated by every entity in the state. Gov departments, people, institutions, etc. Most legislature share the same basic bicameral structure as the U.S. Congress, with a lower chamber called house of representatives and an upper chamber called a senate, and in which each must pass a bill before it goes to the governor to be signed into law. Florida has 120 representatives / 40 senators Smith, K. Greenblatt, A. Governing States and Localities 6e 5
6 Legislative Functions The job of the legislator is to set policy for the state, in consultation with the governor. Control of the legislative branch is determine by the numerical majority of each party in their respective chambers. For example Republicans may control the house of representatives, but Democrats control the Senate. Whoever has the majority will usually get their way. Legislator cannot please every body all the time and they have to balance competing interest. They have to choose between the desire of their party, or their constituents/ state as express in public opinion polls. If the legislative priorities are different than those of the governor, then they have to be able to have sufficient votes in each chamber to override a governor s veto. Smith, K. Greenblatt, A. Governing States and Localities 6e 6
7 Legislative Functions All state legislature share four basic interrelated and often overlapping functions Lawmaking- Representation Constituent service Oversight Smith, K. Greenblatt, A. Governing States and Localities 6e 7
8 Legislative Functions Lawmaking Pass laws and create policy for their state Representation- provide a means for the various groups and individuals to have their interest represented in state policymaking. Constituent service- offer personalized service to help residence within their district resolve any problem they may have with state government. Oversight- They oversee the activities of the other branches of governments and some private entities to ensure that they laws are followed and faithfully executed. Smith, K. Greenblatt, A. Governing States and Localities 6e 8
9 Lawmaking Legislature tend to be the most reactive institution. When ever an issue becomes prevalent in the state, the legislature is always the first to act, thus demonstrating to their constituencies that they are concern about their issues. While legislators do not go out looking for issues to champion, they typically introduce bills for several reasons: It is a bill that must be considered on an annual basis like the budget. It is a bill that is dealing with a common problem ie, gun control, eminent domain. It is an issue that an individual or a group outside the legislator, such as constituents, governor, lobbyist, wants considered. Smith, K. Greenblatt, A. Governing States and Localities 6e 9
10 Lawmaking The governor and the executive branch are also powerful players in the legislative process. They usually promote ideas and issues they want the legislature to work on. Lobbyist represent clients that have an interest in promoting a certain issue or cause before the legislature. As the role of government has increased, so has the number of lobbyist in state capitals. For lobbyist they either want legislation that will favor their business or will do no harm to their business. Smith, K. Greenblatt, A. Governing States and Localities 6e 10
11 Legislative Tactics Legislators usually react most strongly to bills that they have a personal state in or will affect their constituents directly. They will move the legislation using: Coalition building or assembling an alliance of groups to pursue a common goal or interest. Logrolling or trading your vote on a colleague s particular bill in return for that colleague voting on another bill. Filibustering is a senate rule that allows for continuous debate in order to prevent final action on an objectionable bill. Riders are amendments to a bill that have noting to do with the bill being considered. Compromise is when legislators find a central point they can agree to that allows legislation to go forward. Smith, K. Greenblatt, A. Governing States and Localities 6e 11
12 Representation The primary responsibility of a legislator is to represent their constituents interest before state government. They must address the citizens interest even if that interest is not in the best interest of the state. For example, in Florida many big city urban areas calmer for free health care. Providing such a service will require increases in taxes, which will affect the state, the legislator is representing his constituents by proposing a bill to provide free health care to all. They must contend with outside pressure from lobbyist and various other groups looking to have their issues brought before the state government. I.e., uber, taxis, etc Finally, legislators have to contend with internal changes to the legislative branch itself. Whenever one or both chambers change hands, it changes the legislative priorities of the state government. Smith, K. Greenblatt, A. Governing States and Localities 6e 12
13 Constituent Service Aside from passing laws and representing the interest of their constituents and desperate groups looing to have their issues addressed by the state government. Legislators spend a lot of time and energy devoted to constituent services. They help clear up problems their constituents may have with public agencies by acting as a liaison between the citizen and the unelected parts of government and its bureaucracy. Legislators provide constituent services via casework, which is the means a legislator uses his power as an incumbent to help individuals sort through the regulatory requirements of a particular issue, and ultimately resolve the problem. I.e., dead beat dads and child support, health care, etc. Smith, K. Greenblatt, A. Governing States and Localities 6e 13
14 Oversight Under the U.S system of checks and balances, the legislature has the responsibility for oversight, ensuring that the governor and the executive branches of government are functioning properly. Legislators have the authority to hold executive branch agencies to account for their activities by holding hearings, conducting investigation, and auditing departments. Legislators will investigate agencies that have been reveled to have been pursuing policies that hurt their constituents. In general, legislators tend not to go out looking for scandals because there is little political reward in it. Also, there is little support for conducting cost-benefit analysis of how current programs are working. Smith, K. Greenblatt, A. Governing States and Localities 6e 14
15 Legislative Structure Under the U.S. system of representative democracy, each state has a constitution that describe the body that can pass laws on behalf of the citizens of the state. In every state the constitution describes a unicameral or bicameral legislature. Bicameral The legislature is divided into two houses, one is the house of representatives with members elected for a shorter term and representing less people, and the other is the senate which represent more people with a longer term. Florida house representative elected for two year terms and represents 157,000 people. Florida Senate 40 members elected for two years terms representing 470,000 people. Unicameral- contains only one chamber that passes law. Nebraska the only state with one chamber. Smith, K. Greenblatt, A. Governing States and Localities 6e 15
16 Smith, K. Greenblatt, A. Governing States and Localities 6e 16
17 Legislative Organization Legislative leadership At the beginning of each session the house of representatives selects its speaker. The Speaker of the House presides over the daily sessions, refers bills to the appropriate committee, appoint committee chairs and signs the legislation that is making its way to the governors desk. In the senate the leader is know as President of the Senate. Each house also has a Majority and Minority Leader. Rank-and-file members- Are those legislators who provide the leaders with their vote. If they are not informed on a particular issue, they usually rely on their staffers, other legislators, executive branch officials, lobbyists, etc, to inform them on how to vote. Smith, K. Greenblatt, A. Governing States and Localities 6e 17
18 Committees Legislative Organization Regardless of which party controls the legislature, all work is done via committee. The committee is where bills get sent to be debated, amended, or die, before they get sent to the floor for a vote by the full house and senate. Being on a particular committee can mean a great deal of power and prestige for the individual legislator. The Florida house has 15 committees Appropriation, education, judiciary, etc. The Florida Senate has 18 committees - Appropriation, education, judiciary, rules, transportation, etc. Smith, K. Greenblatt, A. Governing States and Localities 6e 18
19 Apportionment A state constitutional duty that the legislature has is apportionment. Every 10 years after the completion of the nation wide census the state are required to redraw their congressional, as well as their state legislative district. This is done to accommodate the changes in populations. The redistricting process requires that each district be roughly even in population and taking into account that all the current groups are represented. Any district that is oddly shaped in order to link disparate communities is said to be gerrymandered. Malapportionment is when you have districts that violate the principle of equal representation. Majority-minority districts-members of one minority group make up the majority of the population. Smith, K. Greenblatt, A. Governing States and Localities 6e 19
20 State Legislators, cont. Professional background The Constitution requires a Representative / Senator to be at least 21 years of age, a resident of the district from which elected, and a resident of Florida for two years prior to election. Lawyers Businessmen Other business that allows you the time to serve. Demographic diversity Women-increased since the 1970s Racial minorities- Blacks / Latinos / Asians/ etc. Smith, K. Greenblatt, A. Governing States and Localities 6e 20
21 Professionalized Legislatures Professional vs. citizen legislators. Should legislature meet all the time, or should they meet for a short period every year Full-time vs. part-time legislators. Depend on the size of the state and its economic resources. Can pay full time salaries or part time. Population. The bigger the population, means more issues to be addressed and thus requiring a full time legislature. CA and PA meet year round. Political culture (trust in government). Distrust in government means that a legislature will meet for less time, allowing local governments to deal with issues that may arise. TX meets only part time. Smith, K. Greenblatt, A. Governing States and Localities 6e 21
22 State Legislatures and Public Opinion Professional legislatures and public approval. Legislature sometime seen as secretive, highly partisan, wasteful and uninformed. Negative perception of politicians. All politicians are crooks. Beholden to special interest and lobbyists. Low level of knowledge about state legislatures. Seen as uninformed as to what really is going on. Role of the media. Media is more concerned about sensationalizing conflicts than explaining what is really going on. Partisan commentary. Smith, K. Greenblatt, A. Governing States and Localities 6e 22
23 Term Limits Fail to increase citizen legislators Only people that have the personal drive and financial resources always run. Fail to increase women and minority legislators. Mixed results for lobbyists. No consistency / loss of relationships. More power to executive branch Popular with the public. Get rid of the bums. Smith, K. Greenblatt, A. Governing States and Localities 6e 23
24 Conclusion Legislatures tend to serve a common purpose and perform a set of core functions, although legislative organization and activities generally reflect the existing political culture of a state. While lawmaking and oversight consume a significant amount of time and resources, constituent representation is the primary responsibility of state legislators. Elected officials and their staffs spend the vast majority of their time answering constituent requests through casework and other forms of constituent service. Smith, K. Greenblatt, A. Governing States and Localities 6e 24
25 Conclusion The structure and composition of state legislatures have changed dramatically in the last forty years. The rise of professionalized legislatures has significantly increased the power of legislatures and the authority of individual legislators. It also has resulted in a significant increase in career-oriented legislators. This contributes to variation in legislative composition and organization. As the degree of professionalization has increased, however, public approval of legislative activity has decreased. Thus, despite improving efficiency and effectiveness, state legislatures remain unpopular with the American public. For this reason, states with highly professionalized legislatures also tend to have term limits in place for incumbents. These states often provide for direct citizen influence in the form ballot initiatives and referendums as well. Smith, K. Greenblatt, A. Governing States and Localities 6e 25
26 Discussion 1. How has the trend toward professionalized legislatures increased their visibility and affected public trust? Do term limits undermine existing political relationships necessary for legislative effectiveness? Do term limits quell public disapproval of career-oriented politicians or perpetuate existing beliefs regarding an inefficient legislature by encouraging legislative individualism? 2. Do interest groups and lobbyists serve increasingly influential roles in the state legislative process. Given the rise of professionalized legislatures, what role do you foresee for lobbyists? Will legislative power decline as external actors become more influential due to a lack of legislative coordination? Do you think that legislative term limits will prevent legislators from acquiring the policy expertise necessary for successful legislative action? 3. What are some of the indirect effects of term limits on the behavior of individual state legislators? Given the lack of political incentive for legislators to engage in coalition building, have term limits promoted legislative individualism? Are legislators pursuing individual policy agendas rather than following party leadership? What are the potential positive and negative effects of term limits over time? Smith, K. Greenblatt, A. Governing States and Localities 6e 26
27 Discussion 4. What are some of the effects of more professionalized state legislatures on the behavior of individual state legislators? Since professionalization results in an increase in legislative staff, salary, and resources to be used at the discretion of the individual legislator, are legislators likely to become more focused on winning office as opposed to responding to constituent interests? Are legislators becoming more focused on campaigning as opposed to providing quality representation? Will this lead to increased or decreased partisanship among party members? 5. State governments are increasingly working together on a number of issues. Given this, should there be a uniform structure for state legislatures? Should all state legislatures have the same leadership structure, the same committees, and so on? Should all state legislatures strive to become professionalized? Should all state legislatures meet year-round? Would the effectiveness of state legislatures improve if all legislatures were highly professionalized? 6. The public tends to have less knowledge of state legislatures than of the U.S. Congress. Yet state legislatures are more likely to affect the day-to-day activities of citizens. Is this a problem for the political system? What can be done to increase knowledge and attention of state legislative activities? Smith, K. Greenblatt, A. Governing States and Localities 6e 27
28 Key Terms Apportionment-The allotting of districts according to population shifts completed every ten years after the national census is completed. Committee- A group of legislator who have the task of writing bills in a particular issue area. Constituent service- The work done by legislators to help the residents in their voting district. Districts- The geographical area represented by members of the legislature. Filibuster- A debate that under senate rules can drag on, blocking final action on a bill that is under consideration, or prevent other bills from being debated. Gerrymander- Districts that are drawn to give the voting advantage to one party or another. Incumbent- The individual that currently holds the office. Majority-minority districts- Districts in which members of a minority group make up the majority of the electorate. Majority rule- The process where the decisions of the numerical majority is made binding on a group. Oversight- The process by which the legislature ensure that the governor and the executive branch agencies are properly implementing the laws passed by the legislature. Redistricting- The redrawing of congressional and legislative districts following the decennial census. Representation- Individual legislators acting as the voices of their constituents within the house and senate. Veto- The governors rejection of legislation passed by the legislature. Smith, K. Greenblatt, A. Governing States and Localities 6e 28
29 Florida House of Representative Chamber Smith, K. Greenblatt, A. Governing States and Localities 6e 29
30 Florida State Senate Chamber Smith, K. Greenblatt, A. Governing States and Localities 6e 30
State Legislatures. State & Local Government. Ch. 7
State Legislatures State & Local Government Ch. 7 Legislature in some states is the dominant branch of govt. Highlights State Legislatures have 4 clear functions: 1. Making laws 2. Represent their constituents
More informationCongress has three major functions: lawmaking, representation, and oversight.
Unit 5: Congress A legislature is the law-making body of a government. The United States Congress is a bicameral legislature that is, one consisting of two chambers: the House of Representatives and the
More informationChapter 6 Congress 9/28/2015. Roots of the U.S. Congress 6.1. Bicameral legislature. TABLE 6.1 What are the powers of Congress? 6.
Chapter 6 Congress Roots of the U.S. Congress 6.1 Bicameral legislature House Representatives based on population Two-year term Senate Two from each state Six-year term TABLE 6.1 What are the powers of
More informationCONGRESSIONAL ELECTIONS
CONGRESS CONGRESSIONAL ELECTIONS Who Wins Elections? Incumbent: Those already holding office. Figure 12.1 CONGRESSIONAL ELECTIONS The Role of Party Identification Most members represent the majority party
More informationCongress: Balancing National Goals and Local Interests. Chapter 11
Congress: Balancing National Goals and Local Interests Chapter 11 Original intent Leading branch of government Parts of executive and judicial branches cannot exist without congressional approval Branch
More informationChapter 12: Congress. American Democracy Now, 4/e
Chapter 12: Congress American Democracy Now, 4/e Congress Where Do You Stand? How would you rate the overall performance of Congress today? a. Favorably b. Unfavorably c. Neither favorably nor unfavorably
More informationChapter 11. Congress. What is Congress main job?
Chapter 11 Congress What is Congress main job? The Constitution and the Legislative Branch of the Government o Article I describes structure of Congress n Bicameral legislature o Divided into two houses
More informationChapter 7. Congress. American Government 2006 Edition To accompany Comprehensive, Alternate, Texas, and Essentials Editions O Connor and Sabato
Chapter 7 Congress American Government 2006 Edition To accompany Comprehensive, Alternate, Texas, and Essentials Editions O Connor and Sabato The Constitution and the Legislative Branch of the Government
More informationThe Constitution and the Legislative Branch of the Government
Chapter 7 Congress The Constitution and the Legislative Branch of the Government o Article I describes structure of Congress n Bicameral legislature o Divided into two houses o Each state sends two Senators
More informationTHE LEGISLATIVE BRANCH. POWERS OF CONGRESS Article I Section 8. AI, S8, Clause 18: Necessary and Proper Clause
THE LEGISLATIVE BRANCH POWERS OF CONGRESS Article I Section 8. AI, S8, Clause 18: Necessary and Proper Clause STRUCTURE OF CONGRESS Originally, the Constitution provided for members of the House of Representatives
More informationWhy Was Congress Created?
Chapter 13: Congress Why Was Congress Created? Fear that power in the hands of a single individual would be abused and the people would suffer. The national legislative power that was vested in Congress
More informationExceptions to Symmetry. Congress: The Legislative Branch. In comparative perspective, Congress is unusual.
Congress: The Legislative Branch In comparative perspective, Congress is unusual. Most legislatures, particularly in parliamentary systems, are relatively weak. Congress exhibits symmetric bicameralism:
More informationBits and Pieces to Master the Exam Random Thoughts, Trivia, and Other Facts (that may help you be successful AP EXAM)
Bits and Pieces to Master the Exam Random Thoughts, Trivia, and Other Facts (that may help you be successful AP EXAM) but what is government itself but the greatest of all reflections on human nature?
More informationCIS Political Science Chapter 11. Legislative Branch: Congress. Mr. Makela. St. Clair High School. University of Minnesota
CIS Political Science Chapter 11 Legislative Branch: Congress Mr. Makela St. Clair High School University of Minnesota The Origin and Powers of Congress Bicameral problems w/ Representation (Great Compromise)
More informationChapter 5: Congress: The Legislative Branch
Chapter 5: Congress: The Legislative Branch Section 1: Congress Section 2: The Powers of Congress Section 3: The House of Representatives Section 4: The Senate Section 5: Congress at Work Congress Main
More informationHow Congress Is Organized. Chapter 6.1 P
How Congress Is Organized Chapter 6.1 P138-144 Terms of Congress The Framers of the U.S. Constitution intended the legislative branch to be the most powerful branch. Terms of Congress Each term starts
More informationRequirement House Senate. Minimum Age 25 years 30 years Length of US Citizenship 7 years 9 years Must be a resident of the state where elected.
#1 Congress Established by Article I of the Constitution, the Legislative Branch consists of the House of Representatives and the Senate, which together form the United States Congress. The Constitution
More information1. States must meet certain requirements in drawing district boundaries. Identify one of these requirements.
Multiple Choice 1. States must meet certain requirements in drawing district boundaries. Identify one of these requirements. a. A person's vote in the largest district of a state must have only half the
More informationAP Govt. Day 53. Objectives: The Learner will examine and understand the institutions of national government: Congress
Objectives: 4.00 - The Learner will examine and understand the institutions of national government: Congress 4.01 - Examine the Constitutional framework for this institution 4.02 - Explain the legislative
More informationAP U.S. Government & Politics Unit 3: Institutions of National Government: The Congress
AP U.S. Government & Politics 2017-18 Unit 3: Institutions of National Government: The Congress Textbook: Chapter 11; Congress: Balancing National Goals and Local Interests ; pp. 286-321 Web sites to use:
More informationThe Legislative Branch: The United States of America in Congress Assembled
The Legislative Branch: The United States of America in Congress Assembled Basic Structure Bicameral Legislature House: Terms and qualifications Reapportionment, Redistricting Senate Election of Senators
More informationCONGRESS. Chapter 7. O Connor and Sabato American Government: Continuity and Change
CONGRESS Chapter 7 O Connor and Sabato American Government: Continuity and Change CONGRESS In this chapter we will cover Roots of the Legislative Branch The Constitution and the Legislative Branch Apportionment
More informationAP US GOVERNMENT: CHAPTER 11 CONGRESS: THE PEOPLE S BRANCH
AP US GOVERNMENT: CHAPTER 11 CONGRESS: THE PEOPLE S BRANCH The US Congress is one of the world s most representative and democratic institutions, admired for its openness and deliberateness. On the other
More informationLecture Outline: Chapter 10
Lecture Outline: Chapter 10 Congress I. Most Americans see Congress as paralyzed by partisan bickering and incapable of meaningful action. A. The disdain that many citizens have for Congress is expressed
More informationAP Civics Chapter 11 Notes Congress: Balancing National Goals and Local Interests. I. Introduction
AP Civics Chapter 11 Notes Congress: Balancing National Goals and Local Interests I. Introduction The NAFTA vote illustrates the dual nature of Congress Congress is both a lawmaking institution for the
More informationAP GOVERNMENT AND POLITICS, STUDY GUIDE. Unit 7 - CONGRESS
AP GOVERNMENT AND POLITICS, STUDY GUIDE Unit 7 - CONGRESS Study Guide - Congress AP US Government and Politics Reading / Resources: Presentation Reviews Herzog Ch.10 Quizzes: Targets 1-3 Targets 4-6 Target
More informationName: Class: Date: 5., a self-governing possession of the United States, is represented by a nonvoting resident commissioner.
1. A refers to a Congress consisting of two chambers. a. bicameral judiciary b. bicameral legislature c. bicameral cabinet d. bipartisan filibuster e. bipartisan caucus 2. In the context of the bicameral
More informationINTRODUCTION THE REPRESENTATIVES AND SENATORS
C HAPTER OVERVIEW INTRODUCTION The framers of the Constitution conceived of Congress as the center of policymaking in America. Although the prominence of Congress has fluctuated over time, in recent years
More informationChapter Ten: The Congress
Chapter Ten: The Congress Learning Outcomes 1. Describe the various roles played by Congress and the constitutional basis of its powers. 2. Explain some of the differences between the House and the Senate
More informationCongress. AP US Government Spring 2017
Congress AP US Government Spring 2017 Congressional Elections: House vs Senate Constituent: citizen who is represented by a member of Congress House is closer to constitutents House members come from individual
More informationThe Congress 113th Congress (ISTOCKPHOTO)
The Congress 113th Congress (ISTOCKPHOTO) Get it right!! Congress = House + Senate House Senate Total Number 435 100 representatives A. Congress by the numbers! Pop-based! Equal - 2 per state Elected Period
More informationCh Congress. AP Government Mr. Zach
Ch. 11 - Congress AP Government Mr. Zach Purpose of Congress: Resolve disputes in public policy Center of policymaking Source of power in govt (controls $$) Members have to be in 2 places at same time
More informationCongress Outline Notes
Congress Outline Notes I. INTRODUCTION A. Congress as the center of policymaking in America. 1. Although the prominence of Congress has fluctuated over time. 2. Some critics charge Congress with being
More informationIllinois Redistricting Collaborative Talking Points Feb. Update
Goals: Illinois Redistricting Collaborative Talking Points Feb. Update Raise public awareness of gerrymandering as a key electionyear issue Create press opportunities on gerrymandering to engage the public
More informationThe Texas Legislature
CHAPTER 25 The Texas Legislature LEARNING OBJECTIVES After reading this chapter you should be able to Define the key terms at the end of the chapter. List the powers and duties of the Legislature, as set
More informationOrganization. -Great Compromise of branches of government Bicameral legislature. -House. -Senate Upper house
Organization -Great Compromise of 1787 3 branches of government Bicameral legislature -House Lower house -Senate Upper house The House of Representatives is based on population The Senate is based on equal
More informationThe National Legislature Chapter 10 Section 1
The National Legislature Chapter 10 Section 1 Two Houses of Congress The Constitution creates a bicameral legislature for three reasons: Historical Practical Theoretical Historical The British Parliament
More informationChapter 10: Congress
Chapter 10: Congress 1. Which of the following is not one of the reasons why a number of congressional members have stepped down from office? (A) constant fundraising (B) to take more prestigious positions
More informationCONGRESS EXAM REVIEW ADVANCED PLACEMENT AMERICAN GOVERNMENT 80 Questions/60 Minutes MAX Mr. Baysdell
CONGRESS EXAM REVIEW ADVANCED PLACEMENT AMERICAN GOVERNMENT 80 Questions/60 Minutes MAX Mr. Baysdell 1. Things you should know about Congress: Members have two different types of staff members; personal
More informationLegislative Branch Unit Day Section Standard(s) Focus
Day Section Standard(s) Focus 1 Congressional Membership LWBBAT understand a rough outline of Congress. LWBBAT describe the similarities and differences of the House and Senate. on historical background
More informationAP Government & Politics CH. 11 & 13 Unit Exam b. Joint d. pork barrel
AP Government & Politics CH. 11 & 13 Unit Exam 1. committees exist in both the House and Senate, may be temporary or permanent, and usually have a focused responsibility. a. Conference d. Standing b. Joint
More information(ISTOCKPHOTO) Exam 6B Notes
(ISTOCKPHOTO) Exam 6B Notes Get it right!! Congress = House + Senate House Senate Total Number 435 100 representatives A. Congress by the numbers! Pop-based! Equal - 2 per state Elected Period 2 6 years
More informationAP United States Government & Politics EXAM: Congress and the Presidency, Ch. 12 & 13
AP United States Government & Politics EXAM: Congress and the Presidency, Ch. 12 & 13 MULTIPLE CHOICE. Choose the one alternative that best completes the statement or answers the question. 1) privileges
More informationCHAPTER 5: CONGRESS: THE LEGISLATIVE BRANCH
CHAPTER 5: CONGRESS: THE LEGISLATIVE BRANCH 1 Section 1: Congress Section 2: The Powers of Congress Section 3: The House of Representative Section 4: The Senate Section 5: Congress At Work SECTION 1: CONGRESS
More informationThe Legislative Branch and Domestic Policy. POLS 103 Unit 2 Week 7-8
The Legislative Branch and Domestic Policy POLS 103 Unit 2 Week 7-8 The Institutional Design of Congress Unit 2 BICAMERAL Legislature! The House of Representatives Elected Via Popular vote. 2 year term
More informationThe Legislative Branch
The Legislative Branch United States Congress bicameral legislature House of Representatives 435 members 2 year terms smaller constituencies(congressional districts) apportionment Census Department Information
More informationCongress. J. Alexander Branham Fall 2016
Congress J. Alexander Branham Fall 2016 Representation Who elects representatives? Constituency the people in the district that an MC represents 1 Principal - Agent Principal constituency 2 Principal -
More informationLEARNING OBJECTIVES After studying Chapter 12, you should be able to: 1. Describe the characteristics of our senators and representatives, and the nature of their jobs. 2. Explain what factors have the
More informationThe Legislative Branch. How does the legislature work to represent the citizens?
The Legislative Branch How does the legislature work to represent the citizens? Congress Senate House of Representatives How Congress is Organized House and Senate Terms of Congress Congress- the national
More informationRabalais AP Government Review Vocabulary List
Rabalais AP Government Review Vocabulary List Chapter 2 The Constitution Democracy Government by the people, both directly or indirectly, with free and frequent elections. Direct democracy Government in
More informationException to incumbency advantage: scandal or unpopular president
The Incumbency Advantage Incumbency tradition is high in both Senate (generally above 50%) and House (generally above 80%, incumbent rate more stable than Senate) Media coverage is higher for incumbents
More informationTwo separate chambers in Congress (BICAMERAL)
CONGRESS Origins of Congress Great Compromise Two separate chambers in Congress (BICAMERAL) Senate Each state receives two senators; 6 year terms Originally selected by state legislatures, but 17th amendment
More informationThe Legislative Branch Chapter 10, 11, 12
The Legislative Branch Chapter 10, 11, 12 Though the President is Commander in Chief, Congress is his commander. This is not a Government of kings, but a Government of the people, and Congress is the people.
More informationThe Texas Legislature Part III. How can you look at the Texas Legislature and still believe in intelligent design? Kinky Friedman
The Texas Legislature Part III How can you look at the Texas Legislature and still believe in intelligent design? Kinky Friedman Texas Legislative Process Texas Legislative Process The Texas Constitution
More informationUnit 4 The Legislative Branch Study Guide Explain all the following: 1. Bi-Cameral 2. Congress: - Office - term - Number of members - Selection -
Unit 4 The Legislative Branch Study Guide Explain all the following: 1. Bi-Cameral 2. Congress: - Office - term - Number of members - Selection - Requirements 3. 17 th Amendment 4. 20 th amendment 5. 27
More informationUnit 4 Test Bank Congress
Unit 4 Test Bank Congress 2) Which of the following did the framers of the Constitution conceive of as the center of policymaking in America? A) the President B) the people C) Congress D) the courts E)
More informationDEMOCRACY. United States of America formed between during the War of Independence.
CANADIAN AND AMERICAN GOVERNANCE: A COMPARATIVE LOOK DEMOCRACY United States of America formed between 1776-83 during the War of Independence. Canada formed in 1867 following negotiations by the British
More informationUS Government Module 3 Study Guide
US Government Module 3 Study Guide There are 3 branches of government. Module 3 will cover the legislative and execute and module 4 will cover the judicial. 3.01 The Legislative Branch aka Congress Established
More information4) Once every decade, the Constitution requires that the population be counted. This is called the 4)
MULTIPLE CHOICE. Choose the one alternative that best completes the statement or answers the question. 1) The Founders intended that the House of Representatives be 1) A) professional. B) electorally insulated.
More informationRedrawing the Map: Redistricting Issues in Michigan. Jordon Newton Research Associate Citizens Research Council of Michigan
Redrawing the Map: Redistricting Issues in Michigan Jordon Newton Research Associate Citizens Research Council of Michigan 2 Why Does Redistricting Matter? 3 Importance of Redistricting District maps have
More informationChapter 13 Congress. Congress. Know the terms/names (especially with FRQs) House of Representatives. Senate
Chapter 13 Congress Know the terms/names (especially with FRQs) Congress House of Representatives Senate Almost always referred to as Congress A term of Congress is 2 years Term begins on January 3 rd
More informationCONGRESS AND ITS WORK PART I
CONGRESS AND ITS WORK PART I Congress may carry on the most wicked and pernicious of schemes under the dark veil of secrecy. The liberties of a people never were, nor ever will be, secure, when the transactions
More informationWHERE WE STAND.. ON REDISTRICTING REFORM
WHERE WE STAND.. ON REDISTRICTING REFORM REDRAWING PENNSYLVANIA S CONGRESSIONAL AND LEGISLATIVE DISTRICTS Every 10 years, after the decennial census, states redraw the boundaries of their congressional
More informationTopic 4: Congress Section 1
Topic 4: Congress Section 1 Introduction Why does the Constitution establish a bicameral legislature? Historically, it is modeled on the two houses of the British Parliament and colonial legislatures.
More informationUnit IV- Institutions of National Government (Congress, Presidency, and Bureaucracy)
Unit IV- Institutions of National Government (Congress, Presidency, and Bureaucracy) Congress (435 representatives and 100 senators).house v. Senate (study chart on page 375 Key Differences ) A) Party
More informationThe Legislative Branch. Article I Congress
The Legislative Branch Article I Congress Terms and Sessions of Congress A term is the length of time between elections in Congress (two years). Each Congressional term consists of two sessions, one during
More informationCHAPTER 6: The legislative branch NAME
CHAPTER 6: The legislative branch NAME VOCAB 1. CONSTITUENT : voters represented by someone in a political office 2. CENSUS : government count of the population every 10 years 3. GERRYMANDER : drawing
More informationObjectives. ! Compare the Constitutional requirements of the House and Senate.
Congress Objectives! Compare the Constitutional requirements of the House and Senate.! List the roles of Congressmen.! Describe the compensation of Congressmen. Background! The Constitution created a bicameral
More informationAnalyzing American Democracy
SUB Hamburg Analyzing American Democracy Politics and Political Science Jon R. Bond Texas A&M University Kevin B. Smith University of Nebraska-Lincoln O Routledge Taylor & Francis Group NEW YORK AND LONDON
More informationCanadian and American Governance: A Comparative Look
Canadian and American Governance: A Comparative Look DEMOCRACY The United States of America was formed between 1776-1783 during the War of Independence. Canada was created July 1, 1867 following passage
More informationADVOCATE S TOOL BOX. What is Lobbying? Lobbying refers to the support or opposition of a particular piece of legislation at any level of government.
Advocate s Toolbox, Eating Disorders Coalition 1 ADVOCATE S TOOL BOX This tool box is designed to provide you with easy-to-use information regarding effective advocacy with the Eating Disorders Coalition
More informationA glossary of. legislative terms Prepared by THE NEW Jersey Office of Legislative Services
A glossary of legislative terms Prepared by THE NEW Jersey Office of Legislative Services A glossary of legislative terms Prepared by the New Jersey Legislature Office of Legislative Services Office of
More informationStation 2 The people are represented in two ways: as states in the Senate and as 435 equally-populated, singlemember districts in the House of Represe
Station 1 The United States Congress represents the diverse interests of the American people The key concept is representation. But representation of what? Most students (and most Americans) do not fully
More informationUnit V Test Congress and the President Practice Test
Unit V Test Congress and the President Practice Test 1. The "revolving door" involves: (A) members of Congress who travel extensively between Washington D.C. and their home states (B) diplomats who engage
More informationAP AMERICAN GOVERNMENT UNIT 5: GOVERNMENT INSTITUTIONS FRQ s
AP AMERICAN GOVERNMENT UNIT 5: GOVERNMENT INSTITUTIONS FRQ s CONGRESS 1. Article I of the Constitution discusses the powers of Congress. a. Define the EACH of the following powers: Expressed Implied Non-legislative
More informationCongress general info
Congress Congress general info Founders believed Congress served their local constituents, but more importantly, the nation Article I-structure, powers, and operation Bicameral- House & Senate (reflected
More informationPurpose of Congress. Make laws governing the nation
Basics of Congress Purpose of Congress Make laws governing the nation Framers considered the legislative branch to be the most powerful A member from either chamber may begin the legislative process (excluding
More informationPolitical Attitudes &Participation: Campaigns & Elections. State & Local Government POS 2112 Ch 5
Political Attitudes &Participation: Campaigns & Elections State & Local Government POS 2112 Ch 5 Votes for Women, inspired by Katja Von Garner. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lvqnjwkw7ga We will examine:
More informationShould Politicians Choose Their Voters? League of Women Voters of MI Education Fund
Should Politicians Choose Their Voters? 1 Politicians are drawing their own voting maps to manipulate elections and keep themselves and their party in power. 2 3 -The U.S. Constitution requires that the
More informationTX RACIAL GERRYMANDERING
TX RACIAL GERRYMANDERING https://www.texastribune.org/2018/04/23/texas-redistricting-fight-returns-us-supreme-court/ TX RACIAL GERRYMANDERING https://www.texastribune.org/2018/04/23/texas-redistricting-fight-returns-us-supreme-court/
More informationCh. 5 Test Legislative Branch Government
Name: Date: 1. In 1998, California had forty-five representatives in the U.S. House of Representatives while Louisiana had seven. What accounts for the difference in these numbers? A. area of the states
More informationCongress The National Legislature Terms and Session of Congress The House of Representatives Congressional Elections Districts
1 2 Congress Chapter 10 Article I of the US Constitution The National Legislature Bicameralism Congress consists of two houses (Bicameral), the House of Representatives and the Senate The British Parliament
More informationMagruder s American Government
Presentation Pro Magruder s American Government C H A P T E R 10 Congress 2001 by Prentice Hall, Inc. C H A P T E R 10 Congress SECTION 1 The National Legislature SECTION 2 The House of Representatives
More informationChapter 5 - The Organization of Congress
Congressional Membership - Section 1 Chapter 5 - The Organization of Congress Introduction The Founders did not intend to make Congress a privileged group. They did intend to make the legislative branch
More information5/5/2015. AP GOPO Late Start Review Session. Top 21 Most Tested Concepts. 1. The Articles of Confederation. 2. The Federalist Papers
AP GOPO Late Start Review Session May 5, 2015 Top 21 Most Tested Concepts 1. The Articles of Confederation Established a decentralized system of government with a weak central government that had limited
More informationIntroduction to American Government Mid-Term Review
Introduction to American Government Mid-Term Review 1) Indirect democracy is based on A) consensus. B) unanimity. C) the system of government used in ancient Greece. D) representation. E) "mob rule." 2)
More informationNEW YORK STATE SENATE PUBLIC MEETING ON REDISTRICTING DECEMBER 14, 2010
NEW YORK STATE SENATE PUBLIC MEETING ON REDISTRICTING DECEMBER 14, 2010 Presentation of John H. Snyder on behalf of the Election Law Committee of the Association of the Bar of the City of New York Senator
More informationGovernment in America: People, Politics, and Policy Thirteenth Edition, and Texas Edition Edwards/Wattenberg/Lineberry. Chapter 12 Congress
Government in America: People, Politics, and Policy Thirteenth Edition, and Texas Edition Edwards/Wattenberg/Lineberry Chapter 12 Congress The Representatives and The Job Senators Salary of $168,500 with
More informationNotes on Congress (a bit outdated but still worthwhile)
Notes on Congress (a bit outdated but still worthwhile) EVOLUTIONARY POWERS The elastic (or necessary and proper clause) gives Congress the authority to pass laws it deems necessary and proper to carry
More informationThe Center for Voting and Democracy
The Center for Voting and Democracy 6930 Carroll Ave., Suite 610 Takoma Park, MD 20912 - (301) 270-4616 (301) 270 4133 (fax) info@fairvote.org www.fairvote.org To: Commission to Ensure Integrity and Public
More informationVideo: The Big Picture IA_1/polisci/presidency/Edwards_Ch11_Congress_Seg1_v 2.
Congress 11 Video: The Big Picture 11 http://media.pearsoncmg.com/ph/hss/ssa_shared_med IA_1/polisci/presidency/Edwards_Ch11_Congress_Seg1_v 2.html Learning Objectives 11 11.1 11.2 Characterize the backgrounds
More informationUNIT 5-1 CONGRESS AND THE PRESIDENCY
UNIT 5-1 CONGRESS AND THE PRESIDENCY STRUCTURE OF CONGRESS House of Representatives Senate Membership 435 members (apportioned by population) 100 members (two from each state) Term of office 2 years; entire
More informationUnited States Government End of Course Exam Review
United States Government End of Course Exam Review Enlightenment Concepts Natural rights- rights that all individuals are born with such as life, liberty, and property. Sovereignty- the idea that the people
More informationThe Federalist, No. 51
The Legislative Branch Fall, 2015 In republican government, the legislative authority necessarily predominates. The remedy for this inconveniency is to divide the legislature into different branches; and
More informationChapter 24: Governing the States Section 2
Chapter 24: Governing the States Section 2 Objectives 1. Describe State legislatures. 2. Explain the election, terms, and compensation of legislators. 3. Examine the powers and organizations of State legislatures.
More informationUnit 4: Congress Chapter 12 Summary
Unit 4: Congress Chapter 12 Summary INTRODUCTION The framers of the Constitution conceived of Congress as the center of policymaking in America. Although the prominence of Congress has fluctuated over
More informationHow Congress Is Organized
SECTION How Congress Is Organized GUIDE TO READING Main Idea In Congress, members of each party select their own leaders and work mainly in committees to carry out their duties. Key Terms bicameral, census,
More informationBasic Government Processes. Heather Sachs, National Down Syndrome Congress Chris Masey, Coalition for Texans with Disabilities
Basic Government Processes Heather Sachs, National Down Syndrome Congress Chris Masey, Coalition for Texans with Disabilities Branches of government The legislative branch Leadership & Committees How a
More informationCongressional Elections
Name: Government In America, Chapter 12 Big Idea Questions Guided Notes The Representatives and Senators The Members: in total - 100 Senators and 435 members of the House Requirements to be a member of
More informationPolitical Science 10: Introduction to American Politics Week 10
Political Science 10: Introduction to American Politics Week 10 Taylor Carlson tfeenstr@ucsd.edu March 17, 2017 Carlson POLI 10-Week 10 March 17, 2017 1 / 22 Plan for the Day Go over learning outcomes
More information