US Separation of Powers 2

Question 1

Which constitutional provision prevents Congress from reducing a sitting federal judge's salary?

Accepted Answer

The Compensation Clause of Article III

Answer

The Emoluments Clause of Article I

Answer

The Necessary and Proper Clause

Answer

The Supremacy Clause

Question 2

What is the constitutional term for Congress's power to gather information in support of its legislative function?

Accepted Answer

Oversight authority

Answer

Investigative jurisdiction

Answer

Congressional inquiry

Answer

Subpoena power

Question 3

Which branch has the exclusive power to recognize foreign governments under the Constitution?

Accepted Answer

Executive

Answer

Legislative

Answer

Judicial

Answer

Both Executive and Senate jointly

Question 4

What constitutional mechanism allows the President to shape legislation without formal veto power?

Accepted Answer

Signing statements

Answer

Executive agreements

Answer

Pocket veto

Answer

Line-item veto

Question 5

Under the non-delegation doctrine, Congress may delegate legislative power to agencies only if it provides a(n):

Accepted Answer

Intelligible principle to guide the agency

Answer

Specific list of permitted actions

Answer

Judicial review mechanism

Answer

Senate confirmation requirement

Question 6

Which Supreme Court case held that the President cannot seize steel mills without congressional authorization?

Accepted Answer

Youngstown Sheet & Tube Co. v. Sawyer (1952)

Answer

McCulloch v. Maryland (1819)

Answer

United States v. Nixon (1974)

Answer

Marbury v. Madison (1803)

Question 7

The Presentment Clause requires that bills passed by Congress be presented to the President. What happens if the President takes no action within 10 days while Congress remains in session?

Accepted Answer

The bill becomes law automatically

Answer

The bill is vetoed by default

Answer

The bill must be returned to Congress

Answer

The bill expires and must be reintroduced