1.
All of the following statements pertaining to the presidential veto are true EXCEPT
Correct Answer
D. A President may veto part of a bill
Explanation
A President may veto part of a bill.
2.
Which of the following is a correct statement about political action committees (PAC's)?
Correct Answer
C. The amount of money that PAC's can contribute directly to an individual candidate is limited by law
Explanation
PAC's are limited by law in terms of the amount of money they can contribute directly to an individual candidate. This means that there are legal restrictions on the financial support PAC's can provide to a specific candidate's campaign.
3.
A "cloture motion" passed in Senate does which of the following?
Correct Answer
B. Cuts off debate on a bill
Explanation
A "cloture motion" passed in Senate cuts off debate on a bill.
4.
The use of direct primaries instead of the convention system in selecting presidential candidates results in which of the following? I. A weakening of partly control over nominations.II. A reduction in the costs of election campaigns.III. An increase in the number of people involved in the choice of candidates.IV. An increase in voter turnout in midterm elections.
Correct Answer
A. I and III only
Explanation
The use of direct primaries instead of the convention system in selecting presidential candidates results in a weakening of party control over nominations because it allows for a wider pool of candidates and gives more power to individual voters. It also leads to an increase in the number of people involved in the choice of candidates as more voters have a say in the selection process. However, it does not necessarily result in a reduction in the costs of election campaigns or an increase in voter turnout in midterm elections.
5.
Which of the following factors best accounts for the rise of interest groups and the decline of political parties in recent years?
Correct Answer
E. Interest groups are better able to articulate specific policy positions than are political parties
Explanation
Interest groups are better able to articulate specific policy positions than are political parties. This suggests that interest groups are more effective in communicating their specific policy goals and objectives to the public and policymakers. This could be due to the fact that interest groups are often focused on a specific issue or set of issues, allowing them to have a more targeted and clear message. In contrast, political parties have a broader range of policy positions and may struggle to effectively communicate their stance on specific issues.
6.
Which of the following best characterizes the influence of the news media on public opinion in the United States?
Correct Answer
B. They affect which issues the public thinks are important
Explanation
The correct answer is "they affect which issues the public thinks are important." The news media has a significant influence on public opinion by selecting and highlighting certain issues, which in turn shapes the public's perception of what is important. The media has the power to prioritize certain topics, provide different perspectives, and set the agenda for public discourse. This influence can ultimately shape public opinion and the public's priorities in terms of what issues they consider important.
7.
Of the following, which group voted most heavily Democratic in presidential elections between 1964 and 1992?
Correct Answer
D. Black Americans
Explanation
Black Americans voted most heavily Democratic in presidential elections between 1964 and 1992. This can be attributed to several factors, including the Civil Rights Movement and the Democratic Party's support for civil rights legislation during this time period. Additionally, the Democratic Party's focus on social and economic issues that disproportionately affect minority communities may have resonated with Black voters. The strong support from Black Americans for the Democratic Party during this period helped to solidify the party's base and shape its platform.
8.
To enforce the Fourteenth Amendment more clearly, Congress passed the
Correct Answer
A. Civil Rights Act of 1964
Explanation
The Civil Rights Act of 1964 was passed by Congress to enforce the Fourteenth Amendment more clearly. This act aimed to end racial segregation and discrimination in public facilities, schools, and employment. It also granted the federal government the power to file lawsuits against individuals or institutions that violated individuals' civil rights. The act was a significant milestone in the civil rights movement and played a crucial role in advancing equal rights and opportunities for all Americans.
9.
In the United States, most criminal cases end in
Correct Answer
A. A plea bargain negotiated by the defense and prosecution
Explanation
In the United States, a plea bargain is the most common way for criminal cases to end. This is a negotiation between the defense and prosecution where the defendant agrees to plead guilty in exchange for a lesser sentence or a reduced charge. Plea bargains are favored because they help to expedite the legal process, reduce the burden on the court system, and allow for some level of certainty in the outcome of the case. Additionally, they can also provide benefits to both the defendant and the prosecution by avoiding the risks and uncertainties associated with a trial.
10.
"The Congress shall have power...to make all laws which shall be necessary and proper for carrying into execution the foregoing powers, and all other powers vested by this Constitution in the Government of the United States, or in any department or officer thereof." -clause from the Constitution.Interpretations of this clause have been central to attempts to define the nature of which of the following aspects of the United States political system?
Correct Answer
D. Federalism
Explanation
This clause from the Constitution, known as the Necessary and Proper Clause, grants the Congress the power to make laws that are necessary and proper for carrying out the powers given to the government. The interpretations of this clause have been central to attempts to define the nature of federalism in the United States political system. Federalism refers to the division of powers between the federal government and the states, and the Necessary and Proper Clause has been used to determine the extent of federal power and the limits on state power.
11.
"The Congress shall have power...to make all laws which shall be
necessary and proper for carrying into execution the foregoing powers,
and all other powers vested by this Constitution in the Government of
the United States, or in any department or officer thereof."
-excerpt from the Constitution.The practical effect of this clause has been to
Correct Answer
B. Allow the national government to extend its powers beyond those enumerated in the Constitution
Explanation
The excerpt from the Constitution states that Congress has the power to make laws necessary and proper for carrying out the powers vested in the government. This means that Congress can extend its powers beyond those specifically listed in the Constitution. Therefore, the correct answer is "allow the national government to extend its powers beyond those enumerated in the Constitution."
12.
Those who believe that the Supreme Court in its rulings should defer to the elective institutions of government are advocating
Correct Answer
C. "judicial restraint"
Explanation
The correct answer is "judicial restraint." This is because those who believe that the Supreme Court should defer to the elective institutions of government are advocating for the court to exercise restraint in its rulings. They believe that the elected branches of government, such as the executive and legislative branches, should be given more deference in making policy decisions, rather than the court making broad interpretations of the law. This approach aims to limit the power of the judiciary and uphold the principle of separation of powers.
13.
In general, Congress is most likely to defer to the President
Correct Answer
A. In the area of foreign policy
Explanation
Congress is most likely to defer to the President in the area of foreign policy because the President has the authority to negotiate treaties, appoint ambassadors, and make decisions regarding international relations. Congress typically gives the President more leeway in this area due to the President's expertise and the need for quick decision-making in matters of national security and diplomacy. Additionally, Congress may be hesitant to interfere with foreign policy decisions as it could undermine the President's ability to effectively represent the country on the global stage.
14.
In trying to influence legislation, the President is generally more successful than congressional leaders in
Correct Answer
E. Using the media to set the policy agenda
Explanation
The President is generally more successful than congressional leaders in using the media to set the policy agenda. The President has a larger platform and more visibility than congressional leaders, allowing them to shape public opinion and influence the media's coverage of policy issues. By strategically using the media, the President can highlight certain policy priorities and garner public support, which can in turn put pressure on Congress to take action on those issues. Congressional leaders, on the other hand, have less access to the media and may struggle to set the policy agenda in the same way.
15.
Supporters of granting the President a line-item veto would most likely argue that this power would increase a President's ability to
Correct Answer
C. Control federal spending
Explanation
Supporters of granting the President a line-item veto would argue that this power would increase the President's ability to control federal spending. With a line-item veto, the President can selectively veto specific provisions or spending items in a larger bill, allowing for more targeted control over the budget. This would enable the President to eliminate unnecessary or wasteful spending, ensuring that taxpayer money is used more efficiently and effectively. By having the power to veto specific spending measures, the President can play a more active role in shaping fiscal policy and reducing government spending.
16.
Which of the following is true of an executive agreement made between a United States President and another head of state?
Correct Answer
A. It does not require Senate approval, but may require congressional allocation of funds for implementation
Explanation
An executive agreement made between a United States President and another head of state does not require Senate approval, meaning it does not need to be ratified by a two-thirds majority vote in the Senate like a treaty would. However, it may still require congressional allocation of funds for implementation, as Congress holds the power of the purse and can allocate funds for the agreement's execution. This means that while the President has the authority to enter into executive agreements without Senate approval, Congress still has a role in providing the necessary funds for implementation.
17.
Over the past 20 years, reforms of teh presidential nomination process have had which of teh following effects?
Correct Answer
D. The number of female delegates and minority-group delegates at Democratic national conventions has grown substantially
Explanation
Over the past 20 years, reforms of the presidential nomination process have led to a significant increase in the number of female delegates and minority-group delegates at Democratic national conventions. This suggests that these reforms have been successful in promoting diversity and inclusivity within the party's nomination process.
18.
All of the following are reasons incumbents in the House of Representatives enjoy an electoral advantage over challengers EXCEPT that incumbents
Correct Answer
A. Get substantial financial support from their party's national committee
Explanation
Incumbents in the House of Representatives enjoy an electoral advantage over challengers because they are better known to voters, find it easier to raise campaign funds, can use staff members to do constituent service, and often serve on committees that enable them to help the constituency. However, the one reason that does not contribute to their advantage is that they do not necessarily get substantial financial support from their party's national committee.
19.
The Office of Management and Budget has the primary responsibility for doing which of the following?
Correct Answer
B. Preparing the budget
Explanation
The Office of Management and Budget is responsible for preparing the budget. This means that they are in charge of creating the budget proposal for the federal government. They analyze the financial needs and resources of the government and make recommendations on how to allocate funds. They work closely with other government agencies to gather information and ensure that the budget aligns with the priorities and goals of the administration. The Office of Management and Budget plays a crucial role in the budgeting process and helps shape the financial decisions of the federal government.
20.
The boundary lines of congressional districts are drawn by
Correct Answer
E. State legislatures
Explanation
The correct answer is state legislatures. The boundary lines of congressional districts are drawn by the state legislatures. This means that the state governments have the power to determine the shape and size of each district within their state. This process is known as redistricting or gerrymandering, and it is typically done every ten years after the census data is released. The state legislatures play a crucial role in this process as they have the authority to manipulate the boundaries in a way that can benefit their political party or agenda.
21.
The most common form of political activity undertaken by United States citizens is
Correct Answer
E. Voting in presidential elections
Explanation
The given answer, voting in presidential elections, is the most common form of political activity undertaken by United States citizens. This is because presidential elections are held every four years and receive significant media coverage and public attention. Voting allows citizens to directly participate in the democratic process and have a say in selecting the country's leader. While other activities like lobbying, campaigning, and contributing money to political parties are also important, they are not as widespread or accessible to all citizens as voting in presidential elections.
22.
Which of the following statements best describes how United States citizens regard the rights of free speech and assembly?
Correct Answer
A. A majority agrees in principle with these rights, but in practice many people are often intolerant of views they do not support
Explanation
A majority of United States citizens agree in principle with the rights of free speech and assembly. However, in practice, many people are often intolerant of views they do not support.
23.
The Fourteenth Amendment to the Constitution has been interpreted by the Supreme Court to
Correct Answer
C. Make most rights contained in the Bill of Rights applicable to the states
Explanation
The Fourteenth Amendment to the Constitution has been interpreted by the Supreme Court to make most rights contained in the Bill of Rights applicable to the states. This means that the protections and rights outlined in the Bill of Rights, such as freedom of speech, religion, and due process, are not only applicable to the federal government but also to state governments. This interpretation ensures that individuals have these fundamental rights protected regardless of whether they are dealing with the federal or state government.
24.
The legislative process at the national level reflects the intent of the framers of the Constitution to create a legislature that would
Correct Answer
B. Be cautious and deliberate
Explanation
The legislative process at the national level reflects the intent of the framers of the Constitution to be cautious and deliberate. This means that the framers wanted the process of making laws to be careful and thoughtful, ensuring that decisions are not rushed or made impulsively. They wanted to create a system where laws are thoroughly debated and considered before being enacted. This approach helps to prevent hasty or ill-considered legislation and promotes a more thoughtful and informed decision-making process.
25.
All of the following are consequences of the federal system in the United States EXCEPT
Correct Answer
E. A strict division of power among levels of government
Explanation
The federal system in the United States allows for a strict division of power among levels of government. This means that power is divided between the national government and the state governments, with each having their own specific areas of authority. This division of power helps to prevent any one level of government from becoming too powerful and allows for a system of checks and balances. Therefore, the correct answer is that a strict division of power among levels of government is not a consequence of the federal system in the United States.
26.
Which of the following is true about divided party control of the presidency and Congress?
Correct Answer
D. It reflects a frequent election pattern over the past three decades
27.
The Freedom of Information Act was designed primarily to give
Correct Answer
D. Citizens access to information from the executive branch
Explanation
The correct answer is citizens access to information from the executive branch. The Freedom of Information Act was enacted to promote transparency and accountability in government by allowing citizens to request and access information from the executive branch of the government. This law ensures that citizens have the right to know what their government is doing and hold it accountable for its actions.
28.
Which of the following is true of the electoral college system?
Correct Answer
B. It encourages candidates to concentrate their campaigns in competitive, populous states
Explanation
The electoral college system encourages candidates to concentrate their campaigns in competitive, populous states. This is because the winner-takes-all system in most states means that candidates focus their efforts on states where they have a higher chance of winning. Competitive states with large populations have a greater number of electoral votes, which can significantly impact the outcome of the election. By targeting these states, candidates can maximize their chances of winning the necessary electoral votes to secure the presidency.
29.
The congressional system of standing committees is significant because it
Correct Answer
A. Fosters the development of expertise by members
Explanation
The congressional system of standing committees is significant because it fosters the development of expertise by members. By assigning specific areas of legislation to different committees, members are able to specialize in those areas and become knowledgeable experts. This expertise allows them to make more informed decisions and craft better legislation. Additionally, committees provide a forum for members to engage in in-depth discussions and debates on specific policy issues, further enhancing their expertise. Overall, the committee system helps to ensure that Congress has access to the expertise needed to effectively address the complex and diverse issues facing the nation.
30.
Elections for the House of Representatives provide
Correct Answer
A. Approximately equal representation for every voter
Explanation
The correct answer is "approximately equal representation for every voter." This means that in elections for the House of Representatives, each voter has the same level of representation. This ensures that every individual's vote carries equal weight and that the elected representatives are a true reflection of the will of the people.
31.
In contrast to revenue sharing, categorical grants-in-aid provide state and local governments with
Correct Answer
E. Funds to administer programs clearly specified by the federal government
Explanation
Categorical grants-in-aid provide state and local governments with funds to administer programs clearly specified by the federal government. This means that the federal government gives money to state and local governments for specific purposes that are outlined by the federal government. The state and local governments do not have discretion in deciding how to use these grants, as they are required to use the funds for the specified programs. This allows the federal government to have more control over how the money is spent and ensures that it is used for the intended purposes.
32.
Which of the following is empowered to create new federal courts and specify the number of judges who will sit on them?
Correct Answer
B. Congress
Explanation
Congress is empowered to create new federal courts and specify the number of judges who will sit on them. This power is granted to Congress by the Constitution in Article III, Section 1, which states that "The judicial Power of the United States, shall be vested in one supreme Court, and in such inferior Courts as the Congress may from time to time ordain and establish." Therefore, it is Congress that has the authority to establish and determine the composition of the federal court system.
33.
The war Powers Resolution (1973) was designed to
Correct Answer
D. Assure congressional involvement in decisions committing military forces in hostile situations overseas
Explanation
The War Powers Resolution (1973) was enacted to ensure congressional involvement in decisions regarding the commitment of military forces in hostile situations overseas. This means that Congress must be consulted and given the opportunity to approve or disapprove of such actions, rather than the President having sole authority. This was done to prevent the executive branch from unilaterally engaging in military actions without proper oversight and accountability from the legislative branch.
34.
The primary reason for the current existence of only two major political parties in the United States is that
Correct Answer
C. A winner0take-all electoral system makes it difficult for new parties to emerge and survive
Explanation
The primary reason for the current existence of only two major political parties in the United States is that a winner-take-all electoral system makes it difficult for new parties to emerge and survive. In this system, the candidate who receives the most votes in a particular district or state wins all the representation, leaving no room for smaller parties to gain a foothold. As a result, third parties often struggle to gain significant support and are often marginalized in the political landscape. This has led to a two-party system dominating American politics.
35.
An interest group would likely have the greatest influence on policy matters involving
Correct Answer
A. Narrow issues, only a few interest groups, and technical information
Explanation
Interest groups are most likely to have the greatest influence on policy matters involving narrow issues because these issues tend to attract fewer interest groups, allowing those that are present to have a greater impact. Additionally, technical information is often required to understand and address these narrow issues, giving interest groups with expertise in the area an advantage in influencing policy decisions.
36.
Which of the following has the most influence on the outcome of a congressional election?
Correct Answer
B. A candidate's incumbency status
Explanation
A candidate's incumbency status refers to whether or not they currently hold the position they are running for. Incumbents have a significant advantage in congressional elections because they already have name recognition, established networks, and a track record of their performance in office. This makes it easier for them to campaign, fundraise, and attract support from voters and party leaders. Therefore, a candidate's incumbency status has the most influence on the outcome of a congressional election compared to other factors listed.
37.
Which of the following is an accurate statement about the voter turnout rate in the United States?
Correct Answer
C. It is lower than in most other Western democracies
Explanation
The correct answer is that the voter turnout rate in the United States is lower than in most other Western democracies. This means that a smaller percentage of eligible voters actually participate in elections in the United States compared to other Western democracies.
38.
Which of the following is an accurate statement that could be used to refute the argument that a realignment took place in the 1980's?
Correct Answer
E. Republican dominance in presidential elections did not extend to congressional, state, and local elections
Explanation
The statement that Republican dominance in presidential elections did not extend to congressional, state, and local elections refutes the argument that a realignment took place in the 1980s. This is because if there was a realignment, it would be expected that the dominance of one party in presidential elections would also extend to other levels of government. However, the fact that Republicans did not dominate congressional, state, and local elections suggests that there was no significant realignment during this period.
39.
Compared to voters in general election, voters in presidential primary elections are
Correct Answer
E. More likely to be affluent
Explanation
In presidential primary elections, voters are more likely to be affluent. This means that they are more likely to have a higher income or wealth compared to the average voter in a general election. This could be because primary elections tend to attract more politically engaged individuals who have the time and resources to participate in the nomination process. Additionally, affluent voters may have more influence in the primary elections due to their ability to donate to campaigns or support candidates financially.
40.
Which of the following was an argument used by the Supreme Court in upholding federal statutes outlawing segregation in public accommodations?
Correct Answer
A. Such segregation affected interstate commerce, and Congress therefore had the authority to outlaw it
Explanation
The Supreme Court upheld federal statutes outlawing segregation in public accommodations because it determined that such segregation affected interstate commerce. This meant that Congress had the authority to outlaw it under the Commerce Clause of the Constitution, which grants Congress the power to regulate commerce between states. By arguing that segregation had an impact on interstate commerce, the Supreme Court justified Congress's authority to pass laws prohibiting segregation in public accommodations.
41.
The clear-and-resent-danger test devised by the Supreme Court was designed to define the conditions under which public authorities could
Correct Answer
D. Limit free speech
Explanation
The clear-and-present-danger test devised by the Supreme Court was designed to define the conditions under which public authorities could limit free speech. This test established that speech can be restricted if it presents a clear and present danger of causing harm or danger to society. It allows the government to restrict speech that poses an immediate threat to public safety or national security, while still preserving the protection of free speech rights.
42.
As originally ratified, the United States Constitution included provisions designed to
Correct Answer
C. Increase the economic powers of the central government
Explanation
The correct answer is "increase the economic powers of the central government." The United States Constitution was originally ratified with the intention of strengthening the central government's authority over economic matters. This was done to address the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation, which had limited the federal government's ability to regulate commerce and taxation. By granting greater economic powers to the central government, the Constitution aimed to create a more unified and prosperous nation.
43.
Which of the following accurately characterizes the main difference between elite theories and pluralist theories of politics in the United States?
Correct Answer
B. Elite theories argue that a single minority dominates politics in all policy areas; pluralist theories argue that many minorities compete for power in different policy areas
Explanation
Elite theories of politics argue that a single minority dominates politics in all policy areas, while pluralist theories argue that many minorities compete for power in different policy areas. This means that elite theories focus on the concentration of power in the hands of a few, while pluralist theories emphasize the existence of multiple competing groups. Elite theories suggest that a small group of elites hold significant influence, while pluralist theories highlight the diversity and competition among different interest groups.
44.
A committee chair in the House of Representatives is always
Correct Answer
D. A member of the majority party in the chamber
Explanation
The correct answer is a member of the majority party in the chamber. This is because the committee chair in the House of Representatives is typically chosen from the majority party, as they have more influence and power within the chamber. The majority party holds more seats in the House and therefore has the ability to appoint their own members to committee chair positions. This ensures that the committee chair aligns with the party's agenda and priorities, allowing them to effectively lead and guide the committee's work.
45.
Which of the following is true of independent regulatory agencies?
Correct Answer
E. They tend to be freer from presidential control than are cabinet departments
Explanation
Independent regulatory agencies tend to be freer from presidential control than cabinet departments. This means that these agencies have more autonomy and are less influenced by the President in their decision-making processes. Unlike cabinet departments, which are directly supervised by the President, independent regulatory agencies have more independence in their operations and are designed to function with minimal political interference. This allows them to make decisions based on their expertise and the best interests of the public, rather than being swayed by political pressures.
46.
Which of the following are differences between the legislative process in the House of Representatives and that in the Senate? I. Debate is more restricted on the House floor than on the Senate floor.II. The amendment process is more restricted in the House than in the Senate.III. Bills are more likely to bypass committee consideration in the House than in the Senate.IV. A Rules Committee sets the guidelines for floor debate in the House but not in the Senate.
Correct Answer
D. I, II, and IV only
Explanation
The correct answer is I, II, and IV only. This means that the differences between the legislative process in the House of Representatives and the Senate are: I) Debate is more restricted on the House floor than on the Senate floor. II) The amendment process is more restricted in the House than in the Senate. IV) A Rules Committee sets the guidelines for floor debate in the House but not in the Senate.
47.
Communication between congressional representatives and constituents occurs mainly through
Correct Answer
C. The personal staffs of representatives
Explanation
The personal staffs of representatives are responsible for facilitating communication between congressional representatives and constituents. They handle constituent inquiries, organize meetings and events, and assist with casework. This direct interaction allows representatives to stay connected with their constituents and address their concerns effectively. Committee hearings, the media, the federal bureaucracy, and staff members of congressional committees also play a role in communication, but the personal staffs of representatives are the main channel through which this communication occurs.
48.
The Supreme Court's decision about abortion in Roe v. Wade was based on
Correct Answer
A. The right to privacy implied in the Bill of Rights
Explanation
The Supreme Court's decision about abortion in Roe v. Wade was based on the right to privacy implied in the Bill of Rights. This decision recognized that a woman has a constitutional right to make decisions about her own body, including the decision to have an abortion. The Court determined that this right to privacy is protected under the Due Process Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment, which guarantees individuals certain fundamental rights. By recognizing the right to privacy, the Court established a precedent that has shaped the legal framework for abortion rights in the United States.
49.
Which of the following trends was evident in presidential elections in the 1980's?
Correct Answer
B. The decline of Democratic party strength among White southerners
Explanation
In the 1980's, there was a noticeable decline in the strength of the Democratic party among White southerners. This trend suggests that White southerners were shifting their political allegiance away from the Democratic party during this time period.
50.
Which of the following statements about incumbent senators running for reelection is correct?
Correct Answer
C. Incumbent senators are less likely to be reelected than are incumbent members of the House of Representatives
Explanation
Incumbent senators are less likely to be reelected than incumbent members of the House of Representatives. This statement suggests that senators face a higher risk of losing their reelection bids compared to representatives. This could be due to various factors such as the larger and more diverse constituencies that senators represent, making it harder to maintain widespread support. Additionally, senators often face more scrutiny and higher expectations due to their higher profile and involvement in national issues.