State and Local Government Overview

Difficulties in getting a group of people to work together to solve shared problems, as individuals' incentives may not align with collective goals.

A model for state legislatures, modeled after Congress, requiring legislators to have more time, staff, and higher pay.

State legislatures where legislators often have low pay and serve limited time.

Limits on the number of terms a legislator can serve, aiming to reduce career politicians and increase turnover.

The governor has the power to influence policy by enforcing laws and imposing restrictions.

The governor is the ceremonial leader of the state.

The governor is in charge of the state's daily operations.

The area of authority over which a government body has power to make laws and enforce them.

The ability of a governor to appoint various executive officials, such as the Lieutenant Governor, Attorney General, and Secretary of State.

A system where government jobs are awarded based on merit and qualifications, not political connections.

Jobs in government awarded based on political loyalty rather than qualifications.

A governor in the final term who cannot be re-elected and has limited power to enact significant changes.

A speech given by a governor that outlines their policy agenda and priorities for the upcoming year.

Directives issued by a governor that have the force of law within the state.

Non-legally defined powers derived from skills like charisma, persuasion, and political capital.

A governor's perceived influence and power, based on factors like public opinion and political allies.

A leader who represents a nation but doesn't have significant political power. They primarily focus on ceremonial duties and public image.

The collective views and attitudes of a significant portion of the population about a particular issue or person. Leaders often try to influence public opinion.

How evenly divided a legislature is between different political parties. A balanced legislature usually means more compromise and less extreme policies.

A state with a significant population and a large geographic area.

Having fewer other groups or individuals competing for influence or control. This often leads to easier decision-making.

Two distinct court systems in the US. State courts handle most legal matters, while federal courts address specific federal laws and issues.

Two types of legal cases. Criminal law deals with violations against society, while civil law involves disputes between individuals or groups.

To interpret ambiguous language and laws in the constitution, ensuring fair and consistent application.

An agreement between the prosecution and defendant where the defendant pleads guilty to lesser charges in exchange for a reduced sentence. This is often done to avoid a trial.

A trial where the judge decides the case instead of a jury.

A method of selecting judges where a legislative body chooses the judges.

A method of selecting judges where the governor appoints the judges.

Judges are elected by voters, and candidates are affiliated with political parties—like Democrats or Republicans.

Judges are elected by voters, but candidates don't officially represent a political party.

Judges are appointed based on qualifications by a commission and then face voters in a retention election.

Methods of resolving disputes outside of a formal trial, such as mediation or arbitration.