US Government: Constitutional Principles & Voting

Unit I: Constitutional Underpinnings

• Six Constitutional Principles: Checks and balances, separation of powers, federalism, limited government, judicial review, popular sovereignty
• Federalism: Enumerated, reserved, and concurrent powers. Examples include implied powers (Necessary and Proper Clause), block grants, categorical grants, and mandates.
• Weaknesses of Articles of Confederation: Information is not provided.
• Constitutional Convention: Key plans discussed were Virginia Plan, NJ Plan, Great Compromise (Connecticut Compromise), Slave Trade Compromise, and 3/5 Compromise.

Unit II: Political Beliefs and Behaviors

• Voting Behavior: Demographics associated with voting groups. Who votes? Who do they vote for? Information about exit polls and voting models (prospective and retrospective) are included.
• Political Ideologies: Key ideologies such as conservative, libertarian, moderate, populist, and liberal perspectives.
• Political Socialization: The process of learning political beliefs.
• Presidential Election Process: Information about primary elections (caucus vs. primary), general elections, and the Electoral College.
• Campaign Finance Reform: Key differences between presidential and congressional races; public funding, Citizens United, and McCain-Feingold are described.
• Voter Qualifications: Information is not provided.

Unit III: Political Parties, Interest Groups, and the Media

• Political Parties: Functions of major and minor parties.
• Interest Groups: PACs, Federalist No. 10, and grassroots lobbying are included.
• Media: Impact on public opinion and politics, media bias, gatekeeper, agenda-setter, scorekeeper, and watchdog roles of media described.
• Amendments: 14th, 15th, 17th, 19th, 24th, and 26th amendments are mentioned but not discussed.
• Measuring Public Opinion: Scientific polling process is discussed.

This quiz covers essential principles of the U.S. Constitution, including checks and balances, federalism, and key compromises. Additionally, it explores political beliefs and behaviors, focusing on voting demographics and ideologies. Test your knowledge on foundational concepts that shape American governance.