Political Science Concepts Quiz
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Questions and Answers

If the Texas legislature wishes to convene outside its regular session to address an urgent crisis, which mechanism is employed?

  • Special session (correct)
  • Impeachment
  • Message
  • Veto
  • A bill proposed in the Texas legislature to enable a county to establish a new community college would most likely be categorized as what?

  • Concurrent resolution
  • Special bill
  • Local bill (correct)
  • General bill
  • How much do Texas representatives make in salary during even-numbered years, excluding any per diem?

  • $12,000
  • $0
  • $28,200
  • $7,200 (correct)
  • According to Article VI, Clause 2, what power does the Constitution hold relative to state laws?

    <p>Supreme power over states laws (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which branch of the government is empowered to review laws passed by Congress to ensure their compliance with the Constitution?

    <p>Judicial (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which constitutional principle is primarily intended to prevent any single branch of government from becoming too powerful?

    <p>Checks and Balances (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The division of power between the federal government and state governments is best described as which of the following?

    <p>Federalism (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is an example of the legislative branch checking the power of the executive branch?

    <p>Congressional Impeachment (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    According to the U.S. Constitution, which powers are reserved to the states?

    <p>Managing Internal Affairs (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the purpose of the 'Necessary and Proper Clause' in the U.S. Constitution?

    <p>To provide flexibility to Congress in legislating (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    A bill has passed both the House and Senate, but with different versions. What is the next step in the lawmaking process?

    <p>Conference Committee (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    To override a presidential veto, what proportion of votes is required in both the House and Senate?

    <p>A two-thirds vote (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is a unique power granted to the Senate, not shared by the House of Representatives?

    <p>Confirming presidential appointments (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following best describes 'unorthodox lawmaking' in the U.S. Congress?

    <p>Bypassing standard procedures using tools like omnibus bills and fast-tracked legislation. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary function of the Legislative Redistricting Board (LRB) in Texas?

    <p>To redraw legislative districts if the legislature fails to do so after the census. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following exemplifies a non-legislative power of the Texas Legislature?

    <p>Confirming gubernatorial appointments. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the critical role of the Comptroller of Public Accounts in the Texas legislative process?

    <p>To provide revenue estimates to the legislature. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which scenario would activate the Legislative Redistricting Board (LRB) in Texas?

    <p>The legislature fails to agree on new district boundaries during the first regular session following the census. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the main difference between a regular and a special session in the Texas legislature?

    <p>Regular sessions are longer and occur biennially, while special sessions are called by the governor to address specific issues. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is an example of legislative power?

    <p>Passing a budget bill (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In what way does the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts constrain the Texas Legislature?

    <p>By ensuring the legislature does not pass a budget that exceeds projected revenue. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following scenarios best exemplifies the 'delegate model' of representation?

    <p>A representative conducting a poll in their district and then voting in accordance with the majority opinion obtained. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The concept of the state as a unique entity is primarily characterized by its:

    <p>monopoly on legitimate coercion and enforcement of laws. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does the principle of 'separation of powers' limit abuses of power?

    <p>By dividing governmental authority among different branches, each with distinct responsibilities and powers. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following best illustrates the principle of 'checks and balances'?

    <p>The Supreme Court declaring a law passed by Congress unconstitutional. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In the context of federalism, what is the significance of the Commerce Clause?

    <p>It grants Congress the power to regulate trade among states and with foreign nations. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does gerrymandering most significantly undermine the principle of fair representation?

    <p>By diluting the voting power of specific groups of voters to favor one party. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following scenarios exemplifies the tension between partisanship and legislative effectiveness?

    <p>A majority party refusing to consider amendments proposed by the minority party, leading to gridlock. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What role does the Legislative Redistricting Board (LRB) play in Texas?

    <p>It redraws legislative districts if the legislature fails to do so. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following areas are typically funded by government revenue rather than private charities?

    <p>Defense (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What unique power distinguishes governmental bodies from private organizations such as charities and corporations?

    <p>The legitimate use of coercive force. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The Presidential veto, Congressional override, and impeachment process exemplify which core principle of government?

    <p>Checks and balances (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    According to the US Constitution, how were senators originally selected?

    <p>Appointed by state legislatures (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why did the framers grant the House of Representatives the power to initiate appropriations bills?

    <p>The chamber most directly representing the people should control taxation and spending. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In today's political climate, how much influence do constituents' opinions have on members of Congress?

    <p>Constituent opinions are carefully balanced with party interests and personal beliefs. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the most influential factor in the organization and operation of the US Congress?

    <p>Political parties (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which rule specifically applies to filibusters in the Texas Senate?

    <p>Senators must speak audibly to be heard and understood. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a key distinction between regular and special sessions of the Texas State Legislature?

    <p>Regular sessions are constitutionally mandated and occur biennially for 140 days, while special sessions are called by the Governor and limited to 30 days. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following best describes the concept of gerrymandering?

    <p>The manipulation of legislative district boundaries to favor a particular political party or group. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    A bill that affects only a specific city in Texas would be classified as which type of bill?

    <p>Local Bill (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In the Texas legislature, what is the primary purpose of a filibuster, and what vote is required to end it in the Senate?

    <p>To delay a vote on a bill; a 3/5 vote is required to end it. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following statements best describes the difference in the roles of the Speaker of the House and the Lieutenant Governor in the Texas legislature?

    <p>The Speaker of the House is the presiding officer of the House, while the Lieutenant Governor serves as the President of the Senate. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the key difference between descriptive and substantive representation?

    <p>Descriptive representation focuses on the demographic traits of representatives matching their constituents, while substantive representation focuses on representatives being accountable to their constituents' interests. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does the compensation of Texas state legislators compare to that of U.S. Congress members?

    <p>Texas legislators receive a significantly lower base salary plus a per diem, while U.S. Congress members receive a much higher base salary and benefits. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is an example of a non-legislative power exercised by the Texas legislature?

    <p>Conducting investigations into state agencies. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Flashcards

    Local Bill

    A bill allowing local governments to take specific actions, like establishing a community college.

    Texas Representative Salary

    In even-numbered years, Texas representatives earn $28,200 annually, excluding per diem.

    Supreme Power Clause

    Article VI, Clause 2 states the Constitution has supreme power over state laws.

    Judicial Branch Power

    The judicial branch reviews laws to ensure they comply with the Constitution.

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    Senate's Role in Congress

    The Senate represents the interests of individual states in Congress.

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    Regular Order

    The traditional legislative process where bills undergo committee review, hearings, and debates before a vote.

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    Unorthodox Lawmaking

    Legislative actions that bypass standard procedures, often using omnibus bills or fast-tracking under strict control.

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    Regular Session (Texas)

    A biennial legislative session lasting 140 days, occurring in odd-numbered years.

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    Special Session (Texas)

    An additional session called by the governor to address specific issues for up to 30 days.

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    Legislative Redistricting Board (LRB)

    A five-member board in Texas that redraws election districts if the legislature fails to after the census.

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    Legislative Powers

    Powers involving lawmaking responsibilities such as passing bills and resolutions.

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    Nonlegislative Powers

    Duties beyond lawmaking, including impeachment and confirming appointments.

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    Comptroller of Public Accounts

    The Texas official who provides revenue estimates to ensure the budget is within financial limits.

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    Delegate Model

    Representatives act according to the direct wishes of their constituents.

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    Trustee Model

    Representatives make decisions based on their judgement, considering constituents' interests.

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    Checks and Balances

    A system that prevents any one government branch from overpowering others.

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    Federalism

    The division of power between national and state governments.

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    Gerrymandering

    The manipulation of electoral district boundaries for political advantage.

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    Enumerated Powers

    Powers specifically granted to the federal government by the Constitution.

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    Judicial Review

    The power of courts to assess the constitutionality of laws.

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    Commerce Clause

    Congress's authority to regulate trade with foreign nations and among the states.

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    Bicameral Structure

    The Texas Legislature consists of two chambers: House of Representatives and Senate.

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    Regular Sessions

    Legislative sessions lasting 140 days, occurring every odd-numbered year.

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    Special Sessions

    Sessions called by the Governor, limited to 30 days.

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    Single-member districts

    Each legislator represents one specific district.

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    Redistricting

    Redrawing district lines every 10 years based on population.

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    Types of Bills

    Includes Local, Special, and General Bills affecting different scopes.

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    Filibuster

    A tactic used to delay votes in the Texas Senate requiring a 3/5 vote to end.

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    Separation of Powers

    Division of government into three branches: Legislative, Executive, and Judicial.

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    Bill of Rights

    First 10 amendments to the Constitution that protect individual rights.

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    Bicameral Legislature

    A two-chamber legislature consisting of the House of Representatives and the Senate.

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    Implied Powers

    Powers not explicitly stated but necessary to carry out enumerated powers.

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    Lawmaking Process

    Steps taken to create a law from bill introduction to presidential approval.

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    Government's Unique Powers

    The government can use violence to coerce people, unlike private entities.

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    Senators before Constitution Amendment

    Under the original Constitution, senators were appointed by state legislatures.

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    House's Money Bill Power

    The House of Representatives introduces money bills because it's closest to the people.

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    Partisanship and Constituents

    True; members of Congress often disregard constituents’ opinions due to partisanship.

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    Key Factor in Congress Organization

    Parties are the most important factor in organizing Congress work.

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    Texas Senate Filibuster Rules

    A Texas senator can take a short break while filibustering, every eight hours.

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    Governor's Address Power

    The governor’s State of the State address illustrates executive power.

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    Study Notes

    Quiz Questions and Answers

    • Descriptive vs. Substantive Representation: Descriptive representation occurs when officials share characteristics with constituents (race, gender). Substantive representation focuses on advocating for constituent interests. Substantive representation is a stronger incentive for good governance.

    • Incumbency Effect: Incumbency significantly increases reelection chances due to name recognition, fundraising advantages, established relationships with constituents, and experience in office.

    • Gerrymandering: Gerrymandering is manipulating district boundaries to favor a political party or group. It leads to non-competitive districts, distorts outcomes, and reduces the influence of certain voter groups. This impacts political representation.

    • Filibuster: A filibuster is a tactic in the Senate to delay or prevent a vote on a bill through extended speaking. It's ended by invoking cloture, requiring a three-fifths majority (60 votes). This is a powerful tool for the minority party.

    • Conference Committees: Formed when differing versions of a bill are passed in the House and Senate. Their purpose is to reconcile these differences to create a unified bill and send it back to both chambers for final approval.

    • Regular vs. Unorthodox Lawmaking: Regular order involves the traditional legislative process (committee review, hearings, floor debate). Unorthodox lawmaking bypasses these procedures through strategies like omnibus bills, closed rules, and fast-tracking.

    Texas Legislature

    • Regular vs. Special Sessions: Regular sessions are biennial, lasting 140 days (odd-numbered years). Special sessions are called by the governor to address specific issues not resolved during the regular session and are limited to 30 days.

    • Legislative Redistricting Board (LRB): A five-member body responsible for redrawing district boundaries when the legislature fails to do so after the census. It's activated if the legislature can't agree on new boundaries in the first regular session after the census.

    • Legislative vs. Non-Legislative Powers: Legislative powers involve lawmaking (passing bills and resolutions). Non-Legislative powers include duties beyond lawmaking, such as judicial oversight (impeachment) and confirming executive appointments.

    • Comptroller of Public Accounts: This role estimates revenue and ensuring the state budget remains within available financial resources. This is crucial as the legislature cannot exceed projected revenue in budget planning.

    Legislative Processes

    • U.S. Congress and Texas Legislature Comparison: The processes in both systems share a similar structure in terms of bill introduction, committee action, floor action, and governor approval/veto. Subtle differences exist impacting bill progression and leadership influence.

    • Representation: Both U.S. Congress and Texas Legislature have a delegate vs. trustee model of representation, with delegate representatives mirroring constituent opinions. Trustee models allow representatives to exercise their own independent judgment. Both entities seek to reflect the demographics and policy preferences of their constituents, aiming for a balance of perspectives.

    • "The State" as a Unique Entity: "the state" possesses unique characteristics as a political entity that distinguishes it from other organizations. The state is the only entity with legitimate use of coercion, utilizing force when necessary for enforcement of laws.

    • Constitutional Limits on Power: Power limitations within U.S. and Texas lawmaking. The system utilizes separation of powers among branches (legislative, executive, judicial), checks and balances between branches, and federalism to limit potential abuses of power.

    Glossary of Terms

    • Apportionment: Distributing House seats based on state population.

    • Bicameral Legislature: Governing system with two legislative chambers.

    • Checks and Balances: Ensures no single branch of government becomes too powerful.

    • Commerce Clause: Congress's power to regulate interstate commerce.

    • Committee Actions: Bill review and revision within committees.

    • Conference Committee: Resolves differing versions of bills from the House and Senate.

    • Constituency: Voters a representative represents.

    • Descriptive Representation: When elected officials share demographic traits with their constituents.

    • Delegate Model: Representatives acting based on direct constituent input.

    • Enumerated Powers: Powers explicitly granted to the federal government by the Constitution.

    • Federalism: Division of power between federal and state governments.

    • Filibuster: Tactic to delay or block legislative action in the Senate using lengthy speeches.

    • Floor Action: Legislation debate and voting on the floor of a legislative chamber.

    • Gerrymandering: Manipulation of electoral districts to benefit a particular party or group.

    • Implied Powers: Powers not explicitly stated but are necessary to carry out enumerated powers.

    • Incumbency: Holding an elected office while seeking reelection.

    • Judicial Review: Courts' power to determine the constitutionality of laws.

    • Legislative Redistricting Board (LRB): Board tasked with redrawing district boundaries if the legislature fails.

    • Logrolling: Lawmakers exchanging votes to secure bill passage.

    • Necessary and Proper Clause: Grants Congress flexibility in enacting laws.

    • Oversight: Congress monitoring executive branch actions.

    • Partisanship: Strong loyalty to a political party.

    • Pigeonholing: Indefinitely setting aside a bill in committee.

    • Separation of Powers: Dividing governmental powers among separate branches.

    • Speaker of the House: Presides over the U.S. House of Representatives.

    • Standing Committee: Permanent legislative committees handling specific policy areas.

    • Substantive Representation: Representatives advocating for constituent interests.

    • Trustee Model: Representatives exercising independent judgment.

    • Veto: Power of the executive branch to reject legislation.

    • Veto Override: Requires a supermajority in the legislature to overturn a veto.

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    Description

    Test your knowledge on key political science concepts including descriptive vs. substantive representation, the incumbency effect, gerrymandering, and the filibuster. Understand how these elements influence governance and political representation. Perfect for students of political science or anyone interested in the mechanics of politics.

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