U.S. Government and Civics Flashcards

What is the constitutional term length for a U.S. federal district court judge?

Answer: Life tenure during good behavior

Article III judges, including federal district court judges, serve during 'good behavior,' which effectively means life tenure.

Which body has the sole constitutional authority to declare war on behalf of the United States?

Answer: Congress

Article I, Section 8 of the Constitution grants Congress the exclusive power to declare war.

The concept of 'judicial review'—the power of courts to invalidate unconstitutional laws—was established in which landmark Supreme Court case?

Answer: Marbury v. Madison

Marbury v. Madison (1803) established the doctrine of judicial review under Chief Justice John Marshall.

Which amendment to the U.S. Constitution prohibits the federal government from abridging freedom of speech, press, and assembly?

Answer: First Amendment

The First Amendment protects freedoms of religion, speech, press, assembly, and petition from government infringement.

What is the quorum requirement for the U.S. Senate to conduct business?

Answer: A simple majority (51 senators)

Article I requires a majority of each chamber—51 senators—to constitute a quorum to do business.

Which constitutional provision requires states to honor the laws, public records, and judicial proceedings of other states?

Answer: The Full Faith and Credit Clause

The Full Faith and Credit Clause (Article IV, Section 1) obligates states to recognize legal acts, records, and court rulings of other states.

The United States Senate has how many members?

Answer: 100

The Senate has 100 members—two senators from each of the 50 states—serving six-year staggered terms.