Stutzman's Legislative Branch Practice Test
Questions and Answers
- 1.
What is the major job of the Legislative Branch?
- A.
Enforce laws
- B.
Review and Interpret laws
- C.
Make laws
Correct Answer
C. Make lawsExplanation
The major job of the Legislative Branch is to make laws. This branch of government is responsible for proposing, debating, and passing legislation that governs the country. They have the power to create new laws, amend existing laws, and repeal outdated laws. The Legislative Branch ensures that the laws reflect the needs and values of the people they represent. They play a crucial role in the democratic process by shaping and enacting policies that affect the nation as a whole.Rate this question:
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- 2.
What are the 2 sections of Congress?
- A.
Executive & Legislative
- B.
Senate & House of Representatives
- C.
Judicial, Executive, Legislative
Correct Answer
B. Senate & House of RepresentativesExplanation
The correct answer is Senate & House of Representatives. Congress is divided into two sections, the Senate and the House of Representatives. The Senate represents the states, with each state having two senators, while the House of Representatives represents the people, with the number of representatives for each state determined by its population. Together, these two sections make up the legislative branch of the United States government.Rate this question:
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- 3.
The Speaker of the House can call a Special Session of Congress
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. FalseExplanation
The Speaker of the House does not have the authority to call a Special Session of Congress. The power to convene a special session lies with the President of the United States. The President has the ability to call Congress back into session outside of their regular schedule in order to address urgent matters or emergencies. The Speaker of the House, on the other hand, is responsible for presiding over the House of Representatives, maintaining order, and facilitating the legislative process.Rate this question:
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- 4.
Each state has how many Senators?
- A.
1
- B.
2
- C.
Determined by population
Correct Answer
B. 2Explanation
Each state has two Senators. This is specified in the United States Constitution, which states that each state shall have an equal number of Senators, regardless of its population. This ensures that each state is equally represented in the Senate, with smaller states having the same influence as larger states.Rate this question:
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- 5.
Each state has how many House of Representatives?
- A.
1
- B.
2
- C.
Determined by population
Correct Answer
C. Determined by populationExplanation
The number of House of Representatives in each state is determined by its population. This is because the House of Representatives is designed to be representative of the people, so states with larger populations have more representatives to ensure fair representation. This system allows for a more democratic and proportional distribution of power in the legislative branch of the government.Rate this question:
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- 6.
How many members are in the Senate?
- A.
50
- B.
100
- C.
435
Correct Answer
B. 100Explanation
The Senate is composed of 100 members. Each state in the United States is represented by two senators, regardless of its population size. This ensures that each state has equal representation in the Senate. Therefore, the correct answer is 100.Rate this question:
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- 7.
How many members are in the House of Representatives?
- A.
50
- B.
100
- C.
435
Correct Answer
C. 435Explanation
The House of Representatives has 435 members. Each state is allocated a certain number of representatives based on its population, with the number of representatives per state ranging from one to 53. This ensures that larger states have more representatives to accurately represent their population. Therefore, the correct answer is 435.Rate this question:
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- 8.
What are the qualifications for Senators?
- A.
20 yrs, old, U.S. Citizen for 5 years, lives in their state
- B.
25 yrs. old, U.S. Citizen for 7 years, lives in their state
- C.
30 yrs old, U.S. Citizen for 9 years, lives in their state
Correct Answer
C. 30 yrs old, U.S. Citizen for 9 years, lives in their stateExplanation
The qualifications for Senators are that they must be at least 30 years old, a U.S. Citizen for 9 years, and must live in the state they represent.Rate this question:
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- 9.
What are the qualifications for House of Representatives?
- A.
20 yrs, old, U.S. Citizen for 5 years, lives in their state
- B.
25 yrs. old, U.S. Citizen for 7 years, lives in their state
- C.
30 yrs old, U.S. Citizen for 9 years, lives in their state
Correct Answer
B. 25 yrs. old, U.S. Citizen for 7 years, lives in their stateExplanation
To qualify for the House of Representatives, an individual must be at least 25 years old, a U.S. citizen for 7 years, and live in the state they wish to represent. This ensures that the representatives have a certain level of maturity and experience as citizens of the country, and also have a strong connection to and understanding of the needs and concerns of their state.Rate this question:
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- 10.
What is the term of office for Senators?
- A.
2 years
- B.
4 years
- C.
6 years
Correct Answer
C. 6 yearsExplanation
Senators serve a term of office for 6 years. This allows for stability and continuity in the legislative branch of government. It also provides Senators with sufficient time to develop expertise in their respective fields and to work on long-term projects and policies. The longer term of office also helps to reduce the frequency of elections, allowing Senators to focus more on their legislative duties rather than campaigning for re-election.Rate this question:
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- 11.
What is the term of office for House of Representatives?
- A.
2 years
- B.
4 years
- C.
6 years
Correct Answer
A. 2 yearsExplanation
The term of office for the House of Representatives is 2 years. This means that members of the House of Representatives are elected every 2 years and serve for that duration before facing re-election. This shorter term allows for more frequent turnover in the House and provides an opportunity for voters to hold their representatives accountable more frequently. It also ensures that the House remains responsive to the changing needs and preferences of the electorate.Rate this question:
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- 12.
The President serves are the President of the Senate.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. FalseExplanation
The statement is false because the President does not serve as the President of the Senate. In the United States, the Vice President serves as the President of the Senate. The President of the Senate is responsible for presiding over the Senate, maintaining order, and casting a tie-breaking vote if necessary. The President, on the other hand, is the head of the executive branch and does not have a direct role in the legislative branch.Rate this question:
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- 13.
The Vice President serves as the Speaker of the House?
- A.
True
- B.
False
- C.
(Make sure you know this one)
Correct Answer
B. FalseExplanation
The statement is false because the Vice President does not serve as the Speaker of the House. The Speaker of the House is a position held by a member of the House of Representatives, while the Vice President is the second-highest-ranking official in the executive branch of the government. The Speaker of the House is responsible for presiding over the House, maintaining order, and managing legislative activities, while the Vice President's role is to preside over the Senate and cast a tie-breaking vote if necessary.Rate this question:
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- 14.
Who are current IL Senators?
- A.
Barack Obama & Joe Biden
- B.
Dick Durbin & Mark Kirk
- C.
Jerry Costello & Jesse Jackson
Correct Answer
B. Dick Durbin & Mark KirkExplanation
The current IL Senators are Dick Durbin and Mark Kirk.Rate this question:
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- 15.
Who are current IL House of Representatives?
- A.
Barack Obama & Joe Biden
- B.
Dick Durbin & Mark Kirk
- C.
Jerry Costello & Jesse Jackson
Correct Answer
C. Jerry Costello & Jesse Jackson -
- 16.
What MUST begin in the House of Representatives?
- A.
Supreme Court Justice appointments
- B.
Revenue Bills
Correct Answer
B. Revenue BillsExplanation
Revenue Bills must begin in the House of Representatives. This is because the Constitution grants the House the power to initiate all bills related to raising revenue. This requirement ensures that the House, which is more directly accountable to the people through more frequent elections, has a greater influence over financial matters. The Senate can propose amendments or suggest changes to revenue bills, but the ultimate authority lies with the House in initiating such legislation.Rate this question:
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- 17.
To change the Constitution you must follow the Amendment process.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
The statement "To change the Constitution you must follow the Amendment process" is true. The Constitution of a country is a fundamental legal document that outlines the structure, powers, and limitations of the government. It is designed to be a stable and enduring framework that requires a deliberate and formal process to make changes. In the case of the United States Constitution, for example, an amendment can only be made through a proposal by Congress or a constitutional convention, followed by ratification by the states. This ensures that any changes to the Constitution are made with careful consideration and broad consensus.Rate this question:
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- 18.
Which Constitutional Article describes the Legislative Branch?
- A.
Article 1
- B.
Article 2
- C.
Article 3
Correct Answer
A. Article 1Explanation
Article 1 of the Constitution describes the Legislative Branch. This article establishes the structure and powers of the legislative branch, which is composed of the Congress. It outlines the two houses of Congress, the House of Representatives and the Senate, and their respective roles and responsibilities. Article 1 also details the process of making laws, including the powers and limitations of Congress in this regard. Overall, Article 1 provides a comprehensive framework for the functioning of the legislative branch in the United States government.Rate this question:
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- 19.
How many terms may a Senator serve?
- A.
2 terms
- B.
4 terms
- C.
Unlimited
Correct Answer
C. UnlimitedExplanation
Senators may serve an unlimited number of terms. Unlike the President, who is limited to two terms, there are no term limits for Senators. This means that a Senator can continue to be reelected and serve in office for as long as they are able to win elections. This allows for potential long-term stability and experience in the Senate, but also raises concerns about the potential for entrenched incumbents and lack of turnover in the legislative branch.Rate this question:
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- 20.
How many terms may a House of Representative serve?
- A.
2 terms
- B.
4 terms
- C.
Unlimited
Correct Answer
C. UnlimitedExplanation
A House of Representative may serve an unlimited number of terms. There is no limit on the number of times a representative can be re-elected, allowing them to serve for as long as they continue to be elected by their constituents. This allows for continuity and the possibility for experienced representatives to continue serving and representing their constituents effectively.Rate this question:
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- 21.
Who is the current Speaker of the House?
- A.
President Obama
- B.
Vice President Joe Biden
- C.
Representative John Boehner
Correct Answer
C. Representative John BoehnerExplanation
The current Speaker of the House is Representative John Boehner. He was elected as the Speaker of the House in 2011 and served until 2015. Boehner is a member of the Republican Party and represented Ohio's 8th congressional district. As the Speaker of the House, he was responsible for leading the House of Representatives, setting the legislative agenda, and representing the House in dealings with the President and Senate.Rate this question:
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- 22.
Who is the current President of the Senate?
- A.
President Obama
- B.
Vice President Joe Biden
- C.
Representative John Boehner
Correct Answer
B. Vice President Joe BidenExplanation
The current President of the Senate is Vice President Joe Biden. As Vice President, Biden serves as the President of the Senate and presides over its sessions. He has the authority to cast tie-breaking votes in the Senate, which is one of his constitutional duties. Therefore, Biden is the correct answer to this question.Rate this question:
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- 23.
Who is the current President Pro Tempore of the Senate?
- A.
Senator Dick Durbin
- B.
Senator Jesse Jackson
- C.
Senator Daniel Inouye
Correct Answer
C. Senator Daniel InouyeExplanation
Senator Daniel Inouye is the correct answer because he served as the President Pro Tempore of the Senate. The President Pro Tempore is the second-highest-ranking official in the Senate and is typically the most senior member of the majority party. Inouye, who was a member of the Democratic Party, held this position from 2010 until his death in 2012. He had a long and distinguished career in the Senate, representing Hawaii for nearly 50 years. Inouye was known for his leadership and expertise in various policy areas, making him a respected figure in the Senate.Rate this question:
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- 24.
Which branch of our government has the power to Declare War?
- A.
Executive Branch
- B.
Legislative Branch
- C.
Judicial Branch
Correct Answer
B. Legislative BranchExplanation
The Legislative Branch has the power to Declare War. This is because the Constitution grants Congress the authority to declare war, making it a responsibility of the Legislative Branch. The framers of the Constitution wanted to ensure that the power to declare war was not solely in the hands of one person or branch, but rather in the hands of the representatives of the people. This system of checks and balances ensures that decisions regarding war are made collectively and with careful consideration.Rate this question:
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- 25.
Illinois current has 42 U.S. Houseof Representatives.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. FalseExplanation
Illinois currently has 18 U.S. House of Representatives. This is the correct answer because as of 2021, Illinois has a total of 18 seats in the U.S. House of Representatives. The number of representatives for each state is determined by population and is subject to change after each census.Rate this question:
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- 26.
How often is a U.S. Census taken?
- A.
5 years
- B.
10 years
- C.
15 years
Correct Answer
B. 10 yearsExplanation
The U.S. Census is taken every 10 years. This is done to gather important data about the population, such as demographics, housing, and other social and economic factors. Conducting the census every decade allows the government to make informed decisions and allocate resources effectively based on the changing needs and trends of the population. It also helps in determining the representation of each state in the House of Representatives.Rate this question:
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- 27.
To override a Presidential VETO, ________ of Congress must agree.
- A.
1/2
- B.
2/3
- C.
3/4
Correct Answer
B. 2/3Explanation
To override a Presidential VETO, a two-thirds majority of Congress must agree. This means that at least two-thirds of the members in both the House of Representatives and the Senate must vote in favor of overriding the veto. This high threshold ensures that there is a significant level of support from both chambers of Congress before a veto can be overturned, reflecting the importance of checks and balances in the US political system.Rate this question:
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- 28.
Lobbiest are provide information and hope to influence members of Congress on how they will vote on a bill. they are NOT allowed to:
- A.
Hire individuals to provide statistics and graphs to persuade members.
- B.
Bribe or give expensive gifts to members
- C.
Inform committee members about the negative side effects of some products.
Correct Answer
B. Bribe or give expensive gifts to membersExplanation
Lobbyists are individuals who aim to influence members of Congress on their voting decisions regarding a bill. While they are allowed to provide information and hope to persuade members, they are strictly prohibited from bribing or giving expensive gifts to members. This is to ensure that the decision-making process remains unbiased and free from any corrupt practices. Lobbyists are also not allowed to inform committee members about the negative side effects of some products, as their role is primarily to provide information and advocate for their clients' interests.Rate this question:
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- 29.
Enumerated or expressed powers are those that are actually stated in the Constitution.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
Enumerated or expressed powers are those powers that are specifically listed or mentioned in the Constitution. These powers are explicitly granted to the federal government and are outlined in the various articles and sections of the Constitution. Examples of enumerated powers include the power to levy taxes, regulate commerce, declare war, and establish post offices. Therefore, the statement that enumerated or expressed powers are those that are actually stated in the Constitution is true.Rate this question:
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- 30.
Implied powers are those understood to be powers give to a branch of government.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
Implied powers are powers that are not explicitly stated in the Constitution but are understood to be granted to a branch of government. These powers are necessary for the government to effectively carry out its duties and responsibilities. They are derived from the express powers that are explicitly granted in the Constitution. Therefore, it is true that implied powers are understood to be powers given to a branch of government.Rate this question:
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- 31.
A RESERVED power for the Federal Government is to coin (make) money.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
The explanation for the given correct answer is that according to the U.S. Constitution, the power to coin money is explicitly granted to the Federal Government. This means that only the Federal Government has the authority to create and regulate the currency of the United States. This power is considered a reserved power because it is specifically assigned to the Federal Government and not delegated to the states.Rate this question:
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- 32.
A RESERVED power for the State Government is to coin (make) money.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. FalseExplanation
The correct answer is False. The power to coin money is not a reserved power for the State Government, but rather a delegated power given to the federal government. This power is explicitly stated in the United States Constitution, which grants the authority to coin money exclusively to the federal government.Rate this question:
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- 33.
A RESERVED power for the Federal Government is to create and manage education.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. FalseExplanation
The statement is false because education is not a reserved power for the Federal Government. In the United States, education is primarily a responsibility of state and local governments. The Tenth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution grants powers not delegated to the federal government to the states, and education is one such power. Therefore, the federal government does not have the authority to create and manage education.Rate this question:
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- 34.
A RESERVED power for the State Government is to create and manage education.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
The statement is true because education is indeed a reserved power for the State Government. In the United States, education is primarily governed at the state level, with each state having its own education system and policies. The State Government is responsible for creating and managing education by establishing public schools, setting curriculum standards, and allocating funding for education initiatives. This allows each state to tailor its education system to meet the specific needs and priorities of its residents.Rate this question:
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- 35.
Nebraska is the only state that does NOT have a ________________ Congress
- A.
Unicameral
- B.
Bicameral
- C.
Tricameral
Correct Answer
B. BicameralExplanation
Nebraska is the only state that does not have a bicameral Congress. A bicameral Congress consists of two separate chambers, namely the House of Representatives and the Senate. In Nebraska, however, they have a unicameral legislature, which means they only have one chamber. This unique system was established in 1937 and is believed to be more efficient and cost-effective. The Nebraska Legislature consists of 49 members who are elected to serve in this single legislative body. This distinction sets Nebraska apart from the other states in terms of its legislative structure.Rate this question:
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- 36.
____________ is a tactic used to delay a vote by members of Congress.
- A.
Filibuster
- B.
Quorum
- C.
Elastic Clause
Correct Answer
A. FilibusterExplanation
A filibuster is a tactic used by members of Congress to delay a vote. It involves speaking for long periods of time in order to prevent a vote from taking place. This tactic is often used by minority party members to block or stall legislation they oppose. The filibuster allows for extended debate and can be used as a tool to shape or influence the outcome of a vote.Rate this question:
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- 37.
A quorum is proposed law.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. FalseExplanation
A quorum is not a proposed law. It refers to the minimum number of members required to be present in order for a meeting or legislative body to conduct business. It does not have any legislative authority or propose laws itself. Therefore, the statement "A quorum is a proposed law" is false.Rate this question:
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- 38.
A quorum requires that a majority must be present for a vote in Congress.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
A quorum is the minimum number of members required to be present in order for a vote to be valid. In Congress, a majority of members must be present for a vote to take place. Therefore, the statement that a quorum requires that a majority must be present for a vote in Congress is true.Rate this question:
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- 39.
Elastic Clause gives Congress the power to make all laws that are necessary and proper.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
The Elastic Clause, also known as the Necessary and Proper Clause, grants Congress the authority to create laws that are deemed necessary and appropriate to carry out its enumerated powers. This clause is found in Article I, Section 8, Clause 18 of the United States Constitution. It allows Congress to adapt and respond to changing circumstances and challenges that may arise over time, ensuring that the federal government can effectively govern and address the needs of the nation. Therefore, the statement is true.Rate this question:
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- 40.
Writ of Habeas Corpus gives Congress the power to make all laws that are necessary and proper.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. FalseExplanation
The Writ of Habeas Corpus does not give Congress the power to make all laws that are necessary and proper. The Writ of Habeas Corpus is a legal action that requires a person under arrest to be brought before a judge or into court, typically to secure the person's release unless lawful grounds are shown for their detention. The power to make all laws that are necessary and proper is granted to Congress by the Necessary and Proper Clause in Article I, Section 8 of the United States Constitution. Therefore, the statement is false.Rate this question:
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- 41.
ExPost Facto Law prohibits Congress from voting itself a pay raise during their term.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. FalseExplanation
The Ex Post Facto Law does not specifically prohibit Congress from voting itself a pay raise during their term. Ex Post Facto Law is a constitutional provision that prohibits the retroactive application of criminal laws. It ensures that individuals cannot be punished for actions that were not considered illegal at the time they were committed. Therefore, it is not directly related to the issue of Congress voting for a pay raise during their term.Rate this question:
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- 42.
The 27th Amendment prohibits Congress from voting itself a pay raise during their term.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
The 27th Amendment to the United States Constitution states that any law that increases or decreases the salary of members of Congress can only take effect after the next election of the House of Representatives. This amendment was ratified in 1992 and was intended to prevent members of Congress from giving themselves immediate pay raises during their term. Therefore, the statement that the 27th Amendment prohibits Congress from voting itself a pay raise during their term is true.Rate this question:
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- 43.
Impeachment is a power given only to the executive branch allowing the president the choice of NOT signing a bill into law.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. FalseExplanation
Impeachment is not a power given to the executive branch allowing the president to choose whether or not to sign a bill into law. Impeachment is a process by which a president (or other high-ranking government official) can be removed from office for committing "high crimes and misdemeanors." It is a power held by the legislative branch, specifically the House of Representatives, who can initiate the impeachment process, and the Senate, who holds the trial and decides whether to remove the impeached official from office.Rate this question:
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- 44.
Impeachment is the term for when a federal employee is charged with a crime.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
Impeachment is the process by which a federal employee, such as a President or federal judge, is charged with a crime or misconduct. It is a formal accusation that can lead to a trial and potential removal from office. Therefore, the statement that impeachment is the term for when a federal employee is charged with a crime is true.Rate this question:
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Nov 28, 2023Quiz Edited by
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May 06, 2011Quiz Created by
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