Civil Service & US Government

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Questions and Answers

What is the primary purpose of a civil service system that emphasizes merit-based hiring?

To ensure all government jobs are filled by individuals from politically connected families.
To increase the influence of political parties in government administration.
To create more opportunities for short-term, contract-based government employment.
To reduce political patronage and ensure government positions are filled by qualified individuals. (correct)

How did the Pendleton Act of 1883 contribute to the development of the modern bureaucracy?

By establishing term limits for civil servants.
By legalizing political patronage at the federal level.
By creating a spoils system to reward political allies.
By mandating merit-based hiring to reduce political patronage. (correct)

What is the main purpose of the Hatch Acts of 1939 and 1940?

To provide financial incentives for federal employees who volunteer in political campaigns.
To restrict the political activities of federal employees, ensuring non-partisanship. (correct)
To encourage federal employees to actively participate in political campaigns.
To allow federal employees to run for any political office without restrictions.

Why did Woodrow Wilson advocate for a professional and efficient government bureaucracy?

To modernize and improve government services through expertise and rational management. (B) Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of sunshine laws?

To ensure government transparency by making meetings and records open to the public. (D) Signup and view all the answers

What is 'agency capture,' and why is it problematic?

When a regulatory agency acts in the interest of the industries it regulates rather than the public interest. (B) Signup and view all the answers

What is the 'bully pulpit' and how does the President use it?

A symbolic power where the President uses their platform to influence public opinion and Congress. (A) Signup and view all the answers

What is the main purpose of the President’s annual State of the Union address?

To inform Congress and set policy goals for the upcoming year. (D) Signup and view all the answers

Explain the function of an executive order.

A directive to manage the federal government and to influence policy. (A) Signup and view all the answers

What does it mean for the President to act as 'Commander-in-Chief'?

The president controls all military forces. (A) Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of the Senate's 'advice and consent' role in the appointment of federal officials?

It requires Senate approval for treaties and appointments, providing a check on executive power. (B) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a primary function of the legislative branch?

Lawmaking through the introduction, debate, and passage of bills. (C) Signup and view all the answers

What is legislative oversight?

The authority to oversee and investigate the executive branch. (D) Signup and view all the answers

What is the function of a filibuster in the Senate?

To delay or prevent a vote on a bill by extended speaking. (B) Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of a conference committee in the legislative process?

To resolve differences in bills passed by the House and Senate. (B) Signup and view all the answers

What is 'gerrymandering,' and what is its primary effect?

Manipulation of district boundaries to favor a particular party or demographic. (B) Signup and view all the answers

What was the primary goal of Progressive reforms in the early 20th century?

To address social, political, and economic issues, enhance fairness, and regulate corporations. (D) Signup and view all the answers

How did Progressive reforms affect the American middle class?

By increasing conditions for the working class and enforcing fair business practices. (A) Signup and view all the answers

What was the principal outcome of the disputed election of 1876 between Rutherford B. Hayes and Samuel J. Tilden?

It resulted in a compromise that impacted future political protocols. (C) Signup and view all the answers

What does the 25th Amendment address?

Outlines presidential succession and vice-presidential vacancy procedures. (C) Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Civil Service System

Hiring and promoting government employees based on skills and ability, not political connections.

Merit System

A system where job positions are awarded based on an individual's demonstrated abilities and qualifications.

Pendleton Act of 1883

Legislation that mandated merit-based hiring in the federal government to reduce political influence.