US Separation of Powers 5

Question 1

Which Founder most directly articulated the theory of separation of powers that influenced the Constitution's framers?

Accepted Answer

Montesquieu

Answer

John Locke

Answer

Jean-Jacques Rousseau

Answer

Thomas Hobbes

Question 2

Under what circumstances may the President make recess appointments without Senate confirmation?

Accepted Answer

During a Senate recess of sufficient length, typically at least 10 days

Answer

Anytime the Senate is not physically in session

Answer

Only during formal congressional recesses declared by both chambers

Answer

Whenever the Senate fails to act within 30 days of a nomination

Question 3

What constitutional doctrine allows federal law to override conflicting state laws?

Accepted Answer

The Supremacy Clause / federal preemption

Answer

Separation of powers

Answer

Judicial review

Answer

The Commerce Clause

Question 4

Which separation-of-powers concern did the Supreme Court cite when striking down the Gramm-Rudman-Hollings Act's deficit reduction mechanism in Bowsher v. Synar (1986)?

Accepted Answer

Congress retained removal power over an officer exercising executive functions

Answer

The law bypassed Senate confirmation

Answer

The President lacked veto authority over the trigger mechanism

Answer

The law created a fourth branch of government

Question 5

The War Powers Resolution of 1973 requires the President to notify Congress within how many hours of introducing armed forces into hostilities?

Accepted Answer

48 hours

Answer

24 hours

Answer

72 hours

Answer

96 hours

Question 6

Which constitutional mechanism allows federal judges to be removed from office?

Accepted Answer

Impeachment by the House and conviction by the Senate

Answer

Presidential removal with Senate approval

Answer

A two-thirds vote of the Supreme Court

Answer

A joint resolution of Congress

Question 7

What constitutional principle does the phrase 'ambition must be made to counteract ambition' from Federalist No. 51 describe?

Accepted Answer

Checks and balances through separated powers

Answer

Federalism and state sovereignty

Answer

The Bill of Rights as a check on government

Answer

Democratic accountability through elections