PSC American Government and Institutions 2

Question 1

What is the primary function of the U.S. Congress?

Accepted Answer

To enact federal legislation and exercise oversight of the executive branch

Answer

Congress's primary functions are to make federal laws, appropriate government funds, and exercise oversight of the executive branch's activities.

Question 2

How many senators does each U.S. state send to the Senate regardless of population?

Accepted Answer

2

Answer

The Constitution provides that each state, regardless of population, has equal representation in the Senate with two senators per state.

Question 3

Which constitutional amendment abolished slavery in the United States?

Accepted Answer

Thirteenth Amendment

Answer

The Thirteenth Amendment (1865) abolished slavery and involuntary servitude throughout the United States, except as punishment for a crime.

Question 4

What does the term 'filibuster' refer to in the U.S. Senate?

Accepted Answer

An extended debate or procedural tactic used to delay or block a vote

Answer

A filibuster is a Senate procedural tactic in which a senator or senators use extended debate to delay or prevent a vote on legislation, requiring 60 votes (cloture) to end.

Question 5

The War Powers Resolution of 1973 was passed by Congress primarily to:

Accepted Answer

Limit the president's ability to commit U.S. forces to armed conflict without congressional approval

Answer

The War Powers Resolution requires the president to notify Congress within 48 hours of committing forces and limits unauthorized deployments to 60 days without congressional approval.

PSC - Political Science Certificate Practice Test

PSC - Political Science Certificate Practice Test

PSC American Government and Institutions 2