Which of the following statements about the presidency and democracy is FALSE?

Which of the following statements about the presidency and democracy is FALSE?

A) There is little prospect of the presidency being a threat to democracy.
B) From the time the Constitution was written there has been a fear that the presidency would degenerate into a monarchy.
C) Concerns over presidential power are generally closely related to policy views.
D) Concerns about a tyrannical presidency were prevalent in the Reagan administration due to his ability to impose his will on Congress.

Answer: D

News coverage of presidents and their activities

News coverage of presidents and their activities

A) usually focuses on the personality of the president.
B) is not systematically biased in any direction.
C) tends to focus on the substance of presidential policies.
D) has a heavy liberal bias.
E) is typically unfavorable toward the White House.

Answer: B

A large number of studies have concluded that the news media are

A large number of studies have concluded that the news media are

A) moderately biased toward liberal ideology.
B) not biased on any systematic basis, and the news is typically characterized by neutrality.
C) slightly biased toward the Democrats.
D) strongly biased toward the Democrats.
E) slightly biased toward the Republicans.

Answer: B

Most of the news coverage of the White House

Most of the news coverage of the White House

A) is class analysis that seeks to explain which socio-economic groups are benefiting from or being injured by the latest policies.
B) focuses on the most visible layer of presidents' personal and official activities.
C) focuses on the fundamental processes operating in the executive branch.
D) is concerned with the substance of policies.
E) is concerned with foreign policy issues.

Answer: B

The individual who conducts daily press briefings and serves as a conduit of information from the White House is the

The individual who conducts daily press briefings and serves as a conduit of information from the White House is the

A) National Security Advisor.
B) Minister of Information.
C) president's secretary.
D) Chief of Staff.
E) press secretary.

Answer: E

The president's ________ serves as the principal conduit of information from the White House to the press on a daily basis.

The president's ________ serves as the principal conduit of information from the White House to the press on a daily basis.

A) press secretary
B) vice president
C) Chief of Staff
D) Secretary of Information
E) Domestic Policy Advisor

Answer: A

Presidential press conferences

Presidential press conferences

A) give the president a chance to be spontaneous.
B) have not been used since the Nixon administration.
C) are not very useful means of eliciting information.
D) are required by the Constitution without saying how often.
E) are small, intimate meetings with the president.




Answer: E

The ultimate weapon in the president's arsenal of resources to influence Congress is probably

The ultimate weapon in the president's arsenal of resources to influence Congress is probably

A) media support.
B) interest group support.
C) her/his fundraising ability.
D) mobilization of the public.
E) the support of Wall Street and the Federal Reserve Board.

Answer: D

The surge in President George Bush's approval ratings during and immediately following the Gulf War in 1991 was an example of

The surge in President George Bush's approval ratings during and immediately following the Gulf War in 1991 was an example of

A) the bandwagon effect.
B) a rally event.
C) the bully pulpit.
D) presidential coattails.
E) a pocket veto.




Answer: B

"Rally events"

"Rally events"

A) are specific and dramatic events that relate to international relations, directly involving the United States and the president.
B) have an enduring impact on a president's public approval.
C) involve economic upsurges that dramatically increase presidential popularity.
D) have no effect on presidential popularity even though presidents use them for that purpose.
E) occur frequently during a president's administration.

Answer: A

Changes in presidential approval levels appear to be due primarily to

Changes in presidential approval levels appear to be due primarily to

A) the president's personality.
B) how the media treat the president.
C) the financial elites' responses to presidential policies.
D) the public's evaluation of how the president is handling policy areas.
E) how the president's policies affect people individually.

Answer: D

According to public opinion polls, presidents seem to be most popular

According to public opinion polls, presidents seem to be most popular

A) just before they leave office.
B) after they have introduced their first legislative package to Congress.
C) when they first enter office.
D) after they leave office.
E) during mid-term elections.





Answer: C

The basic underpinning of approval or disapproval of a president is

The basic underpinning of approval or disapproval of a president is

A) the president's ability to get her/his program passed by Congress.
B) personality characteristics.
C) political party identification.
D) the state of the economy.
E) the behavior of the media.




Answer: C

At the base of presidential evaluations is the

At the base of presidential evaluations is the

A) public's longstanding suspicion of excessive presidential power.
B) lack of well-defined opinions among most people.
C) predisposition of many people to be critical of government and politics in general.
D) public's indifference to the president.
E) predisposition of many people to support the president.

Answer: E

The primary factor influencing whether or not a person approves or disapproves of a president's job performance is

The primary factor influencing whether or not a person approves or disapproves of a president's job performance is

A) age.
B) geographic location.
C) gender.
D) political party identification.
E) presidential personality.

Answer: D

On average, those who identify with the president's party give approval more than ________ percentage points higher than do those who identify with the opposition party.

On average, those who identify with the president's party give approval more than ________ percentage points higher than do those who identify with the opposition party.

A) 10
B) 20
C) 40
D) 30
E) 50




Answer: C

Among recent presidents, the average approval ratings in the public opinion polls have been

Among recent presidents, the average approval ratings in the public opinion polls have been

A) higher at the end of the president's term than at the beginning.
B) over 75 percent.
C) higher at the beginning of the president's term than at the end.
D) below 40 percent.
E) slowly rising over the course of a president's term(s).

Answer: C

The higher the president stands in the polls,

The higher the president stands in the polls,

A) the less support he needs in Congress.
B) the shorter the president's coattails.
C) the less need there is for presidential public appearances.
D) the easier it is to persuade others to support presidential initiatives.
E) the less likely he will initiate new policy ventures.

Answer: D

How did the White House Communications Office choreograph George W. Bush's address from the Abraham Lincoln announcing the end of major combat operations in Iraq?

How did the White House Communications Office choreograph George W. Bush's address from the Abraham Lincoln announcing the end of major combat operations in Iraq?

A) They placed a "Mission Accomplished" banner over the president's head.
B) They positioned the Abraham Lincoln so that the shoreline was not visible.
C) They timed the even so that the sun would cast a favorable light on the president.
D) The coordinated the shirts of the crewmembers.
E) all of the above





Answer: E

Which of the following statements about presidents going public is FALSE?

Which of the following statements about presidents going public is FALSE?

A) Presidents are not passive followers of public opinion.
B) Presidents' appearances are often staged purely to obtain the public's attention.
C) In recent years, presidents have averaged more than one public appearance every weekday of the year.
D) Dwight Eisenhower was the first president to use presidential speeches to gain policy support.
E) John F. Kennedy was the first "television president."

Answer: D

References by commentators on the presidency to there being "two presidencies" refer to

References by commentators on the presidency to there being "two presidencies" refer to

A) the president as candidate and the president as elected leader.
B) the first term and the second term of a president.
C) what the president originally proposes to accomplish and what the president actually does accomplish.
D) the differences between public and private presidential actions.
E) national security and domestic policy.

Answer: E

The typical member of Congress supports the president on national security roll-call votes

The typical member of Congress supports the president on national security roll-call votes

A) very rarely.
B) about 75 percent of the time.
C) almost always.
D) only 38 percent of the time.
E) slightly more than half the time.





Answer: E

Congress's role in national security policy has typically included all of the following EXCEPT

Congress's role in national security policy has typically included all of the following EXCEPT

A) support or criticism of the president.
B) initiation of policy.
C) oversight of the executive branch.
D) to pass authorizations and appropriations for presidential actions.
E) monitoring constituent opinions on national security.




Answer: B

Which of the following statements about crises is FALSE?

Which of the following statements about crises is FALSE?

A) There were more immediate crises early in American history than there are today.
B) Most crises occur in the realm of foreign policy.
C) Crises are rarely the president's doing.
D) The president has become more prominent in handling crises than other branches of government.
E) It is easier for an individual president to manage crises than it is for congressional leaders to do so.

Answer: A

In the United States showdown with Saddam Hussein in January 1991,

In the United States showdown with Saddam Hussein in January 1991,

A) Congress declared war on Iraq.
B) Congress voted against using force against Iraq, but President Bush used force anyway.
C) Congress passed a resolution authorizing the president to use military force against Iraq.
D) after granting President Bush a thirty-day extension, Congress invoked the War Powers Resolution and effectively placed a ninety-day limit on combat.
E) Congress did not vote on declaring war or authorizing military force, preferring to let the president act alone.

Answer: C

During the 1991 Gulf War,

During the 1991 Gulf War,

A) the War Powers Resolution was ignored.
B) Congress cut off funding after sixty days.
C) President Bush did not seek congressional support for the operation.
D) Congress passed a resolution authorizing the president to use force against Iraq.
E) Congress adopted a formal declaration of war against Iraq.

Answer: D

The War Powers Resolution may be considered unconstitutional because

The War Powers Resolution may be considered unconstitutional because

A) its use of the legislative veto may be considered a violation of the doctrine of separation of powers.
B) it violates the president's power to declare war.
C) it violates the presidents power as Commander in Chief.
D) it was struck down by the Supreme Court.
E) it violates the congressional power to appropriate funds for the military.

Answer: A

The War Powers Resolution

The War Powers Resolution

A) prohibited the president power from committing American troops without congressional approval.
B) established the chain of command of the armed forces in the event the president is incapacitated.
C) gave the president the formal power to declare war in the case of nuclear attack.
D) mandated the withdrawal of forces after sixty days unless Congress declared war or granted an extension.
E) established the code protocols that launch nuclear missiles in order to prevent accidental or unauthorized missile launches.

Answer: D

Some believe the War Powers Resolution could be successfully overturned by the Supreme Court because it

Some believe the War Powers Resolution could be successfully overturned by the Supreme Court because it

A) was vetoed by President Nixon.
B) was not ratified within the constitutionally mandated seven-year period.
C) uses a legislative veto, which may violate the separation of powers.
D) interferes with the president's power to declare war.
E) was really aimed at the Vietnam War only.




Answer: C

Which of the following statements about the role of the president as chief diplomat is FALSE?

Which of the following statements about the role of the president as chief diplomat is FALSE?

A) Presidential diplomacy can involve negotiating conflicts between other nations and not the United States.
B) Senate approval of treaties negotiated by the president is almost automatic.
C) The president has the sole power to negotiate treaties with other nations.
D) In domestic policymaking, as chief diplomat, the president must rely principally on persuasion to lead.
E) All of these are false.

Answer: B

Which of the following is NOT one of the president's powers as the nation's chief diplomat?

Which of the following is NOT one of the president's powers as the nation's chief diplomat?

A) negotiating executive agreements which do not require congressional approval
B) mediating disputes between nations other than the United States
C) declaring war against an adversary
D) extending diplomatic recognition to a nation
E) negotiating treaties with other nations

Answer: C

Among the president's constitutional powers as a maker of foreign policy is the power to

Among the president's constitutional powers as a maker of foreign policy is the power to

A) ratify peace treaties.
B) appropriate foreign-aid funds.
C) extend diplomatic recognition to foreign governments.
D) declare war.
E) all of the above






Answer: C

The president's legislative skills compete with other factors influencing congressional voting, including all of the following EXCEPT

The president's legislative skills compete with other factors influencing congressional voting, including all of the following EXCEPT

A) ideology.
B) constituency news.
C) PAC spending.
D) partisanship.
E) none of the above




Answer: C

Studies have shown that once one takes into account the status of their party in Congress and their standing with the public, presidents renowned for their legislative skills are

Studies have shown that once one takes into account the status of their party in Congress and their standing with the public, presidents renowned for their legislative skills are

A) twice as successful in winning congressional support than other presidents.
B) most likely to reshape the contours of the political landscape.
C) most likely to be able to create opportunities for political change.
D) no more successful in obtaining congressional support than those considered less adept at dealing with Congress.
E) much more successful in gaining support for their domestic policies than for their foreign policies.

Answer: D

The president's role in the legislative process

The president's role in the legislative process

A) is especially important in influencing Congress's agenda.
B) usually puts her/him in conflict with Congress.
C) is usually minor because Congress operates independently from the president.
D) is most effective in domestic policy.
E) at least until 1995, has been to react to and modify congressional initiatives.

Answer: A

The primary goal of the president's legislative strategy is usually

The primary goal of the president's legislative strategy is usually

A) to win on all final votes.
B) to set the agenda.
C) to win the support of all fellow partisans.
D) block legislation he opposes.
E) none of the above

Answer: B

According to the text, two strategies used successfully by President Reagan in achieving his objectives were

According to the text, two strategies used successfully by President Reagan in achieving his objectives were

A) moving slowly and letting Congress set the priorities.
B) moving slowly and setting priorities.
C) lying and forgetting.
D) moving fast and setting priorities.
E) moving fast and letting Congress set the priorities.

Answer: D

Which of the following statements about presidential bargaining is FALSE?

Which of the following statements about presidential bargaining is FALSE?

A) The presidential bargaining takes a variety of forms.
B) The president needs to bargain only with enough people to provide a majority.
C) Bargaining in the form of providing specific benefits for members of Congress is critical to creating presidential coalitions.
D) The president does not have to bargain with every member of Congress to receive support.
E) Presidents' bargaining ability is enhanced by strong public approval.

Answer: C

Electoral mandates

Electoral mandates

A) are the procedures used by the electoral college to tally the presidential electoral votes.
B) occur most often in mid-term elections.
C) consist of the perception that the voters strongly support the winner's positions.
D) are the constitutional requirements that federal elections be held on the second Tuesday
of November of even numbered years.
E) have no real effect on how Congress supports the president.

Answer: C

An electoral mandate ________ the president's level of support in Congress.

An electoral mandate ________ the president's level of support in Congress.

A) does severe harm to
B) usually has a positive effect on
C) increases by a factor of 2.5
D) has no effect on
E) guarantees a sharp increase in

Answer: B

High public approval of the president

High public approval of the president

A) has no effect on congressional elections.
B) gives the president less control over Congress.
C) once achieved is usually sustained for the remainder of his/her presidency.
D) provides a cover for members of Congress to cast votes to which their constituents might otherwise object.
E) allows members of Congress the freedom to vote according to their ideology rather than party.

Answer: D

The political resource that has the most potential to turn a situation of stalemate between the president and Congress into one supportive of the president's legislative proposals is

The political resource that has the most potential to turn a situation of stalemate between the president and Congress into one supportive of the president's legislative proposals is

A) presidential leadership.
B) the president's party leadership.
C) presidential rewards and sanctions.
D) public approval.
E) the threat of veto.





Answer: D

The impact of public approval or disapproval of the president on the support that the president receives in Congress is

The impact of public approval or disapproval of the president on the support that the president receives in Congress is

A) irrelevant.
B) not too important, though it occasionally has a minor effect.
C) represented in the text by the equation s \'3D px\'2D1.
D) extremely important, and sways nearly all members of Congress on every vote.
E) important, but usually at the margins on most policies.

Answer: E

Most studies show that

Most studies show that

A) presidential coattails are increasing in certain regions.
B) presidential coattails rarely affect elections.
C) presidential coattails are stronger in midterm elections.
D) presidential coattails are stronger than ever.
E) presidential coattails affect Republicans more than Democrats.

Answer: B

In mid-term elections, the

In mid-term elections, the

A) president's coattails are the strongest.
B) president's party typically gains seats.
C) president almost always wins reelection; a president who does not is the exception.
D) president usually does not become involved.
E) president's party typically loses seats.





Answer: E

A mid-term election is

A mid-term election is

A) one in which the incumbent is running for reelection.
B) a congressional election that is not accompanied by a presidential election.
C) held every two years.
D) a special election that may remove an official from office in the middle of the term.
E) a presidential election that occurs during a session of Congress.

Answer: B

Recent election studies show

Recent election studies show

A) the president's party usually gains seats in Congress in mid-term elections.
B) a diminishing connection between voters' presidential and congressional voting.
C) that the party of the winning presidential candidate has been gaining an increasing number of seats in congress.
D) that presidential coattails no longer exist.
E) that many congressional races are determined by presidential coattails.

Answer: B

Presidential coattails refers to

Presidential coattails refers to

A) voters who support the president casting their ballots for congressional candidates of the president's party.
B) the tendency for the president's party to lose congressional seats in midterm elections.
C) fund-raising parties the president hosts to raise money for congressional candidates.
D) the president's power to appoint members of his own political party to cabinet posts and as personal advisors.
E) members of Congress voting according to the wishes of the president.

Answer: A

Presidential coattails refers to

Presidential coattails refers to

A) presidential favors to those who support the president's policies.
B) the formal constitutional powers of the president.
C) the ability of members of Congress to hide behind the president on tough issues.
D) voters casting their ballots for congressional candidates of the president's party who will support the president.
E) withholding of presidential favors from those who oppose the president's policies.

Answer: D

When constituency opinion and the president's proposals conflict, members of Congress are more likely to

When constituency opinion and the president's proposals conflict, members of Congress are more likely to

A) vote with the president.
B) vote with their constituents.
C) seek an electronic vote rather than a voice vote.
D) not vote.
E) vote according to their own ideology.




Answer: B

The primary obstacle to party unity in Congress is the

The primary obstacle to party unity in Congress is the

A) multiplicity of parties represented.
B) lack of presidential leadership.
C) separation of powers.
D) bicameral legislature.
E) lack of consensus on policy issues among party members.

Answer: E

In 1996, Congress passed a law giving the president the authority to propose rescinding funds in appropriations bills. Later,

In 1996, Congress passed a law giving the president the authority to propose rescinding funds in appropriations bills. Later,

A) Congress overturned the law.
B) President Clinton chose not to use such authority.
C) President Clinton used it successfully.
D) the Supreme Court voided the decision.
E) President Bush voided the decision.





Answer: D

In 1998, the Supreme Court ruled in Clinton v. City of New York that

In 1998, the Supreme Court ruled in Clinton v. City of New York that

A) a 1996 law granting the president the authority to propose rescinding funds in appropriation bills was unconstitutional.
B) the pocket veto was unconstitutional.
C) that the Clinton impeachment vote was unconstitutional.
D) that the president could not line-item veto grant monies to urban areas.

Answer: A

Which of the following statements about the presidential veto is FALSE?

Which of the following statements about the presidential veto is FALSE?

A) Almost half of all vetoed bills have been overridden by Congress.
B) Presidents can not veto only parts of a bill.
C) Even the threat of a presidential veto can be an effective tool for persuading Congress to give more weight to presidents' views.
D) The presidential veto is an inherently negative resource.
E) The president, unlike most governors, cannot use a line-item veto.

Answer: A

A pocket veto is the situation in which the president

A pocket veto is the situation in which the president

A) vetoes particular items in a spending bill.
B) lets a bill die by neither signing nor vetoing it after Congress has adjourned.
C) rejects a Congressional override.
D) lets a bill become law by neither vetoing nor signing it.
E) sends a law back to Congress with the reasons for rejecting it.

Answer: B

When a president vetoes congressional legislation,

When a president vetoes congressional legislation,

A) Congress must form a joint committee to address the president's complaints.
B) the Supreme Court determines whether the law will take effect.
C) Congress can override the veto by a two-thirds vote in both houses.
D) there is nothing Congress can do about it.
E) one house of Congress can override the veto if it votes to do so with a two-thirds vote.

Answer: C

The Constitution gives the president the power to influence the legislative process through his responsibility to

The Constitution gives the president the power to influence the legislative process through his responsibility to

A) make laws by decree without the consent of Congress in some situations.
B) direct the business of Congress and initiate impeachment.
C) report on the state of the union and veto acts of Congress.
D) recommend legislation and make appointments.
E) manage the economy, lead the party, and deal with national crises.

Answer: C

The pocket veto can only be used

The pocket veto can only be used

A) when a new president is about to take office.
B) during a presidential election year.
C) when Congress is in session.
D) on appropriations bills.
E) when Congress is adjourned.

Answer: E

A presidential veto of legislation passed by Congress

A presidential veto of legislation passed by Congress

A) can be overturned only by majority vote of the Supreme Court.
B) cannot be overturned.
C) can be overturned by a majority vote of both the House and the Senate to override the veto.
D) can be overturned by a two-thirds vote of either the House or the Senate to override the veto.
E) can be overturned by a two-thirds vote of both the House and the Senate to override the veto.

Answer: E

George W. Bush's management style is

George W. Bush's management style is

A) wheel and spokes.
B) chaotic.
C) hierarchical.
D) transitional.
E) to delegate.





Answer: E

The president who was known as the "consummate delegator" because he dispersed authority to his advisors was

The president who was known as the "consummate delegator" because he dispersed authority to his advisors was

A) John F. Kennedy.
B) George Bush.
C) Ronald Reagan.
D) Jimmy Carter.
E) Lyndon Johnson.

Answer: C

President Clinton's decision making style was

President Clinton's decision making style was

A) to immerse himself in the details of policy and run an open White House, soliciting the advice of a large number of aides.
B) to set up a chain of command in which all advice was sent upward to his Chief of Staff who then presented Clinton with the decision-making options.
C) highly organized and decisive, with the president actually flipping a coin to decide issues where his advisors are evenly divided.
D) to delegate so much decision making authority to his aides that the media often call them his "handlers."
E) to remain highly isolated and make most decisions in consultation only with his two closest advisors.

Answer: A

The organization and importance of the White House staff depend on

The organization and importance of the White House staff depend on

A) the president's Chief of Staff.
B) agenda schedules and formal rules of debate.
C) the personal style of the president in office.
D) the legal authority granted it by Congress.
E) a hierarchy of access to the president.





Answer: C

John F. Kennedy's "wheel-and-spokes" system of management was characterized by

John F. Kennedy's "wheel-and-spokes" system of management was characterized by

A) a hierarchical organization with a chief of staff at the top.
B) many aides with equal status balanced against one another in the decision-making process.
C) the president's involvement in every administrative detail.
D) a closed, small network of computers that directly linked the president to his closest advisors through e-mail messages.
E) a streamlined, fast-paced, and efficient decision-making style.

Answer: B

The system of White House management employed by President John Kennedy was

The system of White House management employed by President John Kennedy was

A) to disperse his authority to numerous aides, each of who had powerful decision-making power.
B) unusually closed, with only the president and his two closest aides involved in most major decisions.
C) to personally take charge of even the minor details of decision making.
D) a chain of command with a chief of staff who controlled almost all access to the president.
E) such that many aides equally participated in the decision-making process.

Answer: E

The part of the executive branch of government that the president sees daily and relies heavily on for information, policy options, and analysis is the

The part of the executive branch of government that the president sees daily and relies heavily on for information, policy options, and analysis is the

A) vice president.
B) president's cabinet.
C) White House staff.
D) Executive Office of the President.
E) Council of Economic Advisors.

Answer: C

The agency that reviews legislative proposals for the president is the

The agency that reviews legislative proposals for the president is the

A) Council of Economic Advisors.
B) National Security Council.
C) Office of Management and Budget.
D) Legislative Executive Agency.
E) Executive Legislative Agency.




Answer: C

The budgetary implications of the president's budget are provided to the president by

The budgetary implications of the president's budget are provided to the president by

A) Executive Budget Office.
B) Department of the Treasury.
C) Council of Economic Advisors.
D) Internal Revenue Service.
E) Office of Management and Budget.





Answer: E

The Office of Management and Budget, the National Security Council, and the Council of Economic Advisors are

The Office of Management and Budget, the National Security Council, and the Council of Economic Advisors are

A) members of the White House staff.
B) advisory bodies of the Department of State.
C) policymaking bodies of the Executive Office of the President.
D) part of the president's cabinet.
E) the key liaison agencies between the president and Congress.

Answer: C

The Office of Management and Budget is comprised of

The Office of Management and Budget is comprised of

A) political appointees and career officials.
B) political appointees, career officials, and congressional staffers.
C) all political appointees.
D) all career officials.
E) economists.




Answer: A

If Congress has increased the scope of government it is because

If Congress has increased the scope of government it is because

A) members typically suffer from Potomac fever.
B) members are by-spending liberals.
C) that is what constituencies want.
D) that is what Congressional staffers want.
E) it is responding to the policy expertise provided by the bureaucracy.

Answer: C

In the relationship between lobbyists and members of Congress,

In the relationship between lobbyists and members of Congress,

A) members of Congress can ignore and embarrass lobbyists.
B) lobbyists hold the greater power.
C) members of Congress depend on lobbyists for reelection.
D) lobbyists pay members of Congress to pass or defeat bills.
E) lobbyists spend most of their efforts on converting opponents to their cause.

Answer: A

Which of the following statements about constituency influence is FALSE?

Which of the following statements about constituency influence is FALSE?

A) It is difficult even for well-intentioned legislators to know what people want.
B) Legislators whose votes on routine issues are out of step with their constituents are rarely reelected.
C) On some controversial issues, legislators ignore constituent opinion at great peril.
D) On obscure issues legislators can safely ignore constituency opinion.
E) Letters received by legislators are more likely to convey extremist rather than moderate opinions.

Answer: B

Constituencies influence policy mostly by

Constituencies influence policy mostly by

A) the initial choice of the representative.
B) influencing congressional leaders.
C) empowering the president in his negotiations with Congress.
D) buying votes through election contributions.
E) lobbying Senators.




Answer: A

Most members of Congress would be considered

Most members of Congress would be considered

A) trustees.
B) instructed delegates.
C) politicos.
D) ambassadors.
E) attentive leaders.





Answer: C

Legislators who use their best judgment to make policy in the interests of the people are called

Legislators who use their best judgment to make policy in the interests of the people are called

A) trustees.
B) instructed delegates.
C) politicos.
D) attentive leaders.
E) opinion leaders.

Answer: A

On a typical issue, the primary determinant of a congressional member's vote is

On a typical issue, the primary determinant of a congressional member's vote is

A) constituent preferences as indicated by extensive polling.
B) the position of the president.
C) personal ideology.
D) the toss of a coin.
E) the position of their party leaders.




Answer: C

The best way constituents can influence congressional voting on legislation is to

The best way constituents can influence congressional voting on legislation is to

A) sign petitions.
B) write letters or send telegrams.
C) fax or call in their opinions.
D) elect a representative or senator who agrees with their views.
E) demonstrate on the steps of the capitol.

Answer: D

Some prefer the concept of legislators as ________, mirroring the preferences of their constituents.

Some prefer the concept of legislators as ________, mirroring the preferences of their constituents.

A) trustees
B) politicos
C) instructed delegates
D) uninstructed delegates
E) pollsters






Answer: C

The English politician and philosopher Edmund Burke favored the concept of legislators as ________, using their best judgment to make policy in the interests of the people.

The English politician and philosopher Edmund Burke favored the concept of legislators as ________, using their best judgment to make policy in the interests of the people.

A) constituent robots
B) trustees
C) instructed delegates
D) politicos
E) judges

Answer: B

The parties in Congress are most cohesive

The parties in Congress are most cohesive

A) on foreign policy issues.
B) when electing their official leaders.
C) on economic policy.
D) military matters.
E) during floor votes.



Answer: B

Presidential leadership of Congress in promoting the chief executive's programs is

Presidential leadership of Congress in promoting the chief executive's programs is

A) dominant, with a heavy hand usually convincing wavering members.
B) a smooth, generally successful enterprise.
C) at the margins, as a facilitator.
D) nonexistent.
E) proactive, substantive, and adversarial.

Answer: C

The president's most common method of attempting to influence Congress is to

The president's most common method of attempting to influence Congress is to

A) call up wavering members.
B) offer to campaign for members.
C) hold regular meetings with the party's leaders in Congress.
D) invite members of Congress to the White House.
E) use the veto power.

Answer: C

Basically, Congress is a(n) ________ decision-making body.

Basically, Congress is a(n) ________ decision-making body.

A) reactive and cumbersome
B) active and smooth
C) unified and consistent
D) radical and hasty
E) retroactive

Answer: A

Most bills formally submitted for consideration in Congress

Most bills formally submitted for consideration in Congress

A) are passed and signed into law.
B) are passed, but vetoed by the president.
C) are defeated in close final votes on the floors of one chamber.
D) are quietly killed off early in the process.
E) pass one house, but are killed in the other house.

Answer: D

Only ________ can formally submit a bill for congressional consideration.

Only ________ can formally submit a bill for congressional consideration.

A) members of the House
B) senators
C) members of the House or senators
D) the president
E) the Speaker of the House




Answer: C

Which of the following offices is responsible for making economic projections about the performance of the economy, the costs of proposed policies, and the economic effects of taxing and spending alternatives?

Which of the following offices is responsible for making economic projections about the performance of the economy, the costs of proposed policies, and the economic effects of taxing and spending alternatives?

A) Congressional Research Service
B) Congressional Budget Office
C) General Accounting Office
D) Ways and Means Committee
E) Federal Reserve

Answer: B

Committee staff is responsible for all of the following EXCEPT

Committee staff is responsible for all of the following EXCEPT

A) providing services to constituents.
B) organizing hearings.
C) writing legislation.
D) monitoring the executive branch.
E) coordinating with congressional offices.

Answer: A

Which of the following is responsible for responding to congressional requests for information and providing non-partisan studies?

Which of the following is responsible for responding to congressional requests for information and providing non-partisan studies?

A) Congressional Research Service
B) Congressional Budget Office
C) General Accounting Office
D) Ways and Means Committee
E) Office of the Majority Leader

Answer: A

Republican congressional reforms in the 1990s included all of the following EXCEPT

Republican congressional reforms in the 1990s included all of the following EXCEPT

A) committee chairs were allowed to choose the chairs of subcommittees on their committees.
B) both committee and subcommittee chairs were limited to three consecutive two-year terms as chair.
C) some subcommittees were eliminated.
D) committee chairs were given complete control over the timing of bills under consideration.
E) none of the above

Answer: D

Congressional reforms of the 1970s

Congressional reforms of the 1970s

A) professionalized the operation of Congress and made it much more efficient.
B) decentralized power and democratized Congress.
C) were aimed at rooting out scandal and corruption.
D) ended the two-party monopoly of Congress and brought new parties into Congress.
E) all of the above

Answer: B

Caucuses in Congress

Caucuses in Congress

A) press committees to hold hearings.
B) push their preferred legislation.
C) mobilize votes for favored legislation.
D) all of the above
E) none of the above





Answer: D

Members of Congress who informally band together in groups to promote and protect mutual interests (e.g., mushroom growers) form what are called

Members of Congress who informally band together in groups to promote and protect mutual interests (e.g., mushroom growers) form what are called

A) subcommittees.
B) committees.
C) caucuses.
D) junkets.
E) interest groups.

Answer: C

Traditionally, Congressional committee chairpersons have been chosen through

Traditionally, Congressional committee chairpersons have been chosen through

A) the seniority system.
B) party rank.
C) popularity with majority leaders.
D) a majority vote by committee members.
E) the merit system.



Answer: A

Members of Congress seek committees that will help them achieve each of the following goals EXCEPT

Members of Congress seek committees that will help them achieve each of the following goals EXCEPT

A) reelection.
B) influence in Congress.
C) a salary increase.
D) opportunity to make policy in areas they think are important.
E) opportunity to make policy in areas important to their constituents.

Answer: C

House and Senate committees

House and Senate committees

A) all have an equal number of Republicans and Democrats.
B) all have a majority of members from the majority party in that chamber.
C) must have their membership approved by the president.
D) are non-partisan, and thus some committees are nearly all Democrats and others nearly all Republicans.
E) are populated by the hired staff members of Congress, freeing the elected members for more important work.

Answer: B

The seniority system gave a decisive edge to House members from ________ districts.

The seniority system gave a decisive edge to House members from ________ districts.

A) Republican
B) suburban
C) older
D) safe
E) competitive




Answer: D

Which of the following statements about congressional committees is FALSE?

Which of the following statements about congressional committees is FALSE?

A) Unless a committee gives a bill a favorable report it almost never can be considered by
the full House or Senate.
B) The most important output of the committee is the marked up bill.
C) Members of the committee usually serve as floor managers of the bill.
D) Members of the committee act as cue-givers to whom other members turn for advice.
E) none of the above

Answer: E

When members of Congress hold a hearing to question a cabinet member on how a law is being carried out, they are engaging in

When members of Congress hold a hearing to question a cabinet member on how a law is being carried out, they are engaging in

A) agenda-setting.
B) filibustering.
C) legislative oversight.
D) casework.
E) congressional administration.

Answer: C

Legislative ________ is the process of monitoring the bureaucracy and its administration of policy.

Legislative ________ is the process of monitoring the bureaucracy and its administration of policy.

A) franking
B) stonewalling
C) overview
D) oversight
E) supremacy

Answer: D

When the House and the Senate pass different versions of the same bill

When the House and the Senate pass different versions of the same bill

A) the House bill is changed to conform with the Senate bill.
B) the Senate bill is changed to conform with the House bill.
C) a conference committee is appointed to resolve differences.
D) a joint committee is appointed to resolve differences.
E) the president may select which bill to enact into law.

Answer: C

Appropriations, Judiciary, and Armed Forces are all examples of ________ committees.

Appropriations, Judiciary, and Armed Forces are all examples of ________ committees.

A) standing
B) select
C) conference
D) joint
E) rule





Answer: A

A ________ committee is one appointed for a limited, specific purpose, such as that set up to investigate the Watergate scandal.

A ________ committee is one appointed for a limited, specific purpose, such as that set up to investigate the Watergate scandal.

A) standing
B) select
C) conference
D) joint
E) special

Answer: B

Most of the business of Congress takes place

Most of the business of Congress takes place

A) in congressional districts.
B) on the floor of the House and Senate.
C) in committees and subcommittees.
D) during evening social functions.
E) in the Rules committees.





Answer: C

Most important congressional activity is done

Most important congressional activity is done

A) on legislators' visits to their home districts.
B) in meetings of standing committees and their subcommittees.
C) on the House floor.
D) on the Senate floor.
E) in the White House.






Answer: B

The most powerful person in the Senate is the

The most powerful person in the Senate is the

A) majority leader.
B) vice president of the United States, who serves as president of the Senate.
C) chair of the Rules Committee.
D) Speaker.
E) president of the United States.

Answer: A

The ________ has the job of presiding over the Senate, breaking ties when necessary.

The ________ has the job of presiding over the Senate, breaking ties when necessary.

A) majority leader
B) majority whip
C) minority leader
D) vice president
E) Speaker




Answer: D

Which of the following statements about the majority leader of the House of Representatives is FALSE?

Which of the following statements about the majority leader of the House of Representatives is FALSE?

A) The majority leader exercises substantial control over which bills get assigned to which committees.
B) The majority leader is the main steppingstone to the job of Speaker of the House.
C) The majority leader is responsible for scheduling bills in the House.
D) The majority leader is responsible for rounding up votes on behalf of the party's position on legislation.
E) He or she is the principal ally of the Speaker.

Answer: A

The minority whip

The minority whip

A) assists the majority leader in party-line votes.
B) becomes the Speaker automatically if the Speaker resigns.
C) represents African Americans, Hispanic Americans, and Asian Americans in each chamber of Congress.
D) keeps a close head count on key votes, and attempts to keep party members in line.
E) is used to punish members who do not vote with the rest of their party.

Answer: D

The ________ is next in line after the vice president to succeed a president who resigns, dies in office, or is impeached.

The ________ is next in line after the vice president to succeed a president who resigns, dies in office, or is impeached.

A) Senate majority leader
B) Senate minority leader
C) House majority leader
D) Speaker of the House
E) Chair of the Joint Chiefs of Staff




Answer: D

Which of the following does the Speaker NOT play a role in?

Which of the following does the Speaker NOT play a role in?

A) making committee assignments
B) presiding over the House when it is in session
C) recommending which members should be expelled from the House for failure to support the party's positions on bills
D) assigning most bills to committees
E) appointing the party's legislative leaders

Answer: C

Which of the following congressional offices is mandated by the Constitution?

Which of the following congressional offices is mandated by the Constitution?

A) Speaker of the House
B) House and Senate Majority Leader
C) President of the House
D) President of the United States
E) all of the above

Answer: A

The National Security Council

The National Security Council

A) links the president's key foreign and military policy advisors.
B) is composed of the heads of the three branches of the armed services and makes recommendations to the president on combat strategy.
C) was established by President Roosevelt to manage foreign and domestic intelligence operations.
D) was created by legislation to keep the president informed on foreign affairs.

Answer: A

The newest cabinet department is

The newest cabinet department is

A) commerce.
B) agriculture.
C) interior.
D) homeland security.
E) transportation.

Answer: D

The two oldest cabinet departments are

The two oldest cabinet departments are

A) state and defense.
B) interior and justice.
C) treasury and justice.
D) state and treasury.
E) education and state.

Answer: D

The cabinet department responsible for making foreign policy and handling treaty negotiations is

The cabinet department responsible for making foreign policy and handling treaty negotiations is

A) interior.
B) justice.
C) foreign affairs.
D) defense.
E) state.

Answer: E

The head of each cabinet-level executive department is appointed by the president and

The head of each cabinet-level executive department is appointed by the president and

A) must be confirmed by a majority of the House.
B) is not subject to House or Senate approval.
C) must be confirmed by a majority of the Senate.
D) must be confirmed by a majority of both the House and the Senate.
E) must be confirmed by two-thirds of the Senate.

Answer: C

Cabinet-level executive departments are created by

Cabinet-level executive departments are created by

A) Congress.
B) the Constitution.
C) the president.
D) rarely held national referendums.
E) all of the above

Answer: A

Which of the following is a member of the cabinet?

Which of the following is a member of the cabinet?

A) director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation
B) Speaker of the House
C) secretary of the navy
D) White House Chief of Staff
E) none of the above

Answer: E

The presidential cabinet

The presidential cabinet

A) is the electronically locked vault where the president keeps his top secret papers.
B) is given tremendous power under the Constitution.
C) includes, by law, a minimum of two sitting members of Congress at all times.
D) consists of the head of each executive department, plus any additional government officials the president designates.
E) can veto actions by the president.

Answer: D

The president's cabinet

The president's cabinet

A) was provided for and elaborated upon by the Constitution.
B) has changed very little since 1960.
C) tends to serve as a collective board of directors.
D) consists of executive branch leaders who advise the president on policy and administer government departments.
E) all of the above

Answer: D

Traditionally, a vice president

Traditionally, a vice president

A) has no formal constitutional powers.
B) later becomes president.
C) is an important advisor to the president.
D) has little responsibility.
E) both C and D

Answer: D

A constitutional duty of the vice president is to

A constitutional duty of the vice president is to

A) preside over the Senate and cast the deciding vote in the event of a tie.
B) attend the funerals of foreign leaders on behalf of the president.
C) preside over the House and cast the deciding vote in the event of a tie.
D) raise funds for party candidates.
E) all of the above

Answer: A

In recent years,

In recent years,

A) presidents have been less concerned about their appointment power.
B) presidents have paid closer attention to appointing officials who will be responsive to the president's policies.
C) presidents have paid less attention to agency rules and regulations.
D) there has been a trend toward decentralized decision making in the White House.
E) there has been a trend toward centralized decision making in the White House.

Answer: B

A primary resource available to presidents for controlling the bureaucracy is

A primary resource available to presidents for controlling the bureaucracy is

A) control of the federal budget.
B) their unlimited power to offer patronage positions in the bureaucracy.
C) the power to appoint top-level administrators.
D) their ability to dismiss or fire most members of the bureaucracy.
E) all of the above

Answer: C

Theodore Roosevelt and Woodrow Wilson

Theodore Roosevelt and Woodrow Wilson

A) were the first presidents to exercise power beyond the specific powers granted to the president in the Constitution.
B) developed the role of the president as manager of the economy.
C) set a precedent for presidents to serve as world leaders.
D) were the only two presidents to ever have their actions declared unconstitutional by the Supreme Court.
E) were among the least effective presidents.

Answer: C

The founding fathers envisioned a presidency that would

The founding fathers envisioned a presidency that would

A) be better organized than today's presidency.
B) have fewer responsibilities than today's presidency.
C) have greater control over the Congress than today's presidency.
D) have greater powers than today's presidency.
E) clearly be the dominant branch of government

Answer: B

The president has the constitutional authority to make treaties with other nations, subject to the agreement of

The president has the constitutional authority to make treaties with other nations, subject to the agreement of

A) a majority of both the House and the Senate.
B) a majority of the Senate.
C) two-thirds of the Senate.
D) two-thirds of the House.
E) a majority of the House.

Answer: C

Which of the following is NOT a constitutional power of the president?

Which of the following is NOT a constitutional power of the president?

A) serve as Commander in Chief of the armed forces
B) sign or veto legislation passed by Congress
C) appoint federal judges with the advice and consent of a majority of the Senate
D) enact legislation by issuing decrees
E) All of these are the president's constitutional powers.

Answer: D

In order to preserve the balance of power in government without jeopardizing the independence of the presidency, the framers

In order to preserve the balance of power in government without jeopardizing the independence of the presidency, the framers

A) refused to give the president powers in the area of national security.
B) created a weak executive.
C) checked those powers that they believed to be most dangerous.
D) limited the president to administrative powers.
E) limited presidents to two terms of office so they could not become "elected monarchs."

Answer: C

The Constitution

The Constitution

A) provides a list of specific powers and implied powers reserved for the president.
B) places the power of the presidency above the other branches of government.
C) requires Congress to delegate specific areas of presidential power.
D) says remarkably little about presidential power.
E) B, C, and D are all correct.

Answer: D

The president's power can best be understood as

The president's power can best be understood as

A) very limited and largely ceremonial.
B) always the dominant figure in the American political system.
C) shared with other branches of government as part of the Madisonian system of checks and balances.
D) unlimited and absolute.
E) originally intended to be unlimited and absolute, but gradually weakened over time.

Answer: C

The Constitution framers

The Constitution framers

A) were unanimous in wanting a single president to lead the country.
B) were united in wanting a strong chief executive.
C) were united in wanting a chief executive similar to the prime minister of Great Britain.
D) generally wanted a president with limited authority and responsibilities.
E) hoped to create a monarchy in the United States.

Answer: D

According to the Twenty-fifth Amendment, in the event of a vacancy in the vice presidency,

According to the Twenty-fifth Amendment, in the event of a vacancy in the vice presidency,

A) the electoral college elects a new vice president.
B) the Speaker of the House is automatically the new vice president.
C) the office remains vacant until a subsequent national election takes place.
D) the Congress picks a new vice president from a list of five names submitted by the president.
E) the president nominates a replacement, who must be confirmed by both houses of Congress.

Answer: E

Under the terms of the Twenty-fifth Amendment, while the vice president is serving as acting president,

Under the terms of the Twenty-fifth Amendment, while the vice president is serving as acting president,

A) a new election must be held within six months.
B) the electoral college determines when the incapacitated president can reclaim the presidency.
C) the recuperated president can not reclaim his former job.
D) the recuperated president can reclaim the Oval Office through a set procedure.
E) the Senate and the House must vote in a secret ballot on whether or not to reinstate the recuperated president.

Answer: D

The Twenty-fifth Amendment, ratified in 1967,

The Twenty-fifth Amendment, ratified in 1967,

A) created a means for selecting a new vice president when the office became vacant.
B) granted 18-year-olds the right to vote.
C) limited the president to two terms in office.
D) specifically forced Richard Nixon from office.
E) provided for the direct election of the president by the people.

Answer: A

The order of succession to the presidency, should the president be unable to fulfill his or her duties is

The order of succession to the presidency, should the president be unable to fulfill his or her duties is

A) Vice President, President Pro Tem of the Senate, Speaker of the House, cabinet members in order that their department was created.
B) Vice President, Speaker of the House, President Pro Tem of the Senate, Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, Cabinet members in order that their department was created.
C) Vice President, Speaker of the House, President Pro Tem of the Senate, Cabinet members in the order that their department was created.
D) Vice President, Chief Justice of Supreme Court, President Pro tem of the Senate, Speaker of the House.
E) Vice President, Speaker of the House, President Pro Tem, Cabinet members in the order that their department created.

Answer: C

The scandal surrounding Richard Nixon's administration that led to impeachment hearings was known as

The scandal surrounding Richard Nixon's administration that led to impeachment hearings was known as

A) Iran-Contra.
B) the Camp David Affair.
C) Watergate.
D) Checkers.
E) Teapot Dome.

Answer: C

Once the House votes for impeachment, the president

Once the House votes for impeachment, the president

A) must leave office.
B) is fined or sentenced to prison.
C) is tried by the Supreme Court.
D) is tried by the Senate.
E) must be indicted by a Grand Jury before being removed from office.

Answer: D

In order to convict and remove an impeached president, it takes

In order to convict and remove an impeached president, it takes

A) a two-thirds vote in the Senate.
B) a majority vote in the Senate.
C) a majority vote in the House of Representatives.
D) a two-thirds vote in the House of Representatives.

Answer: A

Impeachment of a president means that the president is

Impeachment of a president means that the president is

A) convicted of a crime.
B) indicted by the House.
C) removed from office.
D) tried by the Senate.
E) all of the above



Answer: B

In order to impeach a president, it takes

In order to impeach a president, it takes

A) a unanimous vote of the Supreme Court.
B) a two-thirds vote in the Senate.
C) a majority vote in the House of Representatives.
D) a two-thirds vote in the House of Representatives.
E) a majority vote in the Senate.

Answer: C

Impeachment is roughly the political equivalent of a(n)

Impeachment is roughly the political equivalent of a(n)

A) exoneration.
B) admission of guilt.
C) indictment in criminal law.
D) guilty verdict.
E) firing.




Answer: C

Prior to his election as president, ________ had been a well-known actor and served for two terms as governor of California.

Prior to his election as president, ________ had been a well-known actor and served for two terms as governor of California.

A) George Bush
B) Ronald Reagan
C) Jimmy Carter
D) Richard Nixon
E) Earl Warren




Answer: B

Which of the following statements is FALSE?

Which of the following statements is FALSE?

A) For over 10 percent of American history, the presidency has been occupied by an individual not elected to the office.
B) In the twentieth century, almost one-third of our presidents were "accidental Presidents."
C) About one in five presidents got the job because they were vice president when the incumbent president died or resigned.
D) Most presidents have served two or more full terms.
E) Most presidential elections are decided by Congress.

Answer: D

The only president to resign his office was

The only president to resign his office was

A) Warren Harding.
B) Jimmy Carter.
C) Lyndon Johnson.
D) Spiro Agnew.
E) Richard Nixon.





Answer: E

Which of the following presidents was a Republican?

Which of the following presidents was a Republican?

A) Harry Truman
B) John Kennedy
C) Lyndon Johnson
D) Jimmy Carter
E) Richard Nixon

Answer: E

Appointed to the vice presidency in 1973 due to a vacancy, he was the only one to become president having run for neither the presidency or vice presidency in the preceding election.

Appointed to the vice presidency in 1973 due to a vacancy, he was the only one to become president having run for neither the presidency or vice presidency in the preceding election.

A) Lyndon Johnson
B) Nelson Rockefeller
C) Ronald Reagan
D) Gerald Ford
E) Jimmy Carter

Answer: D

As president, ________ launched the "Great Society" at home while escalating the Vietnam War abroad.

As president, ________ launched the "Great Society" at home while escalating the Vietnam War abroad.

A) Lyndon Johnson
B) Harry Truman
C) Richard Nixon
D) Gerald Ford
E) Dwight Eisenhower

Answer: A

____ took over as president upon the death of Franklin Roosevelt in 1945, and eventually ordered the dropping of the atomic bombs on Japanese cities.

____ took over as president upon the death of Franklin Roosevelt in 1945, and eventually ordered the dropping of the atomic bombs on Japanese cities.

A) Theodore Roosevelt
B) Dwight Eisenhower
C) Harry Truman
D) Lyndon Johnson
E) John F. Kennedy




Answer: C

The two-term limit was placed on the presidency by

The two-term limit was placed on the presidency by

A) an act of Congress passed after Franklin D. Roosevelt's death.
B) the Twenty-second Amendment.
C) the Presidential Powers Act of 1951.
D) the Twenty-fifth Amendment.
E) Article II of the original Constitution.

Answer: B

The Twenty-second Amendment, passed in 1951,

The Twenty-second Amendment, passed in 1951,

A) provided for the presidential and vice presidential candidates to run as a team.
B) gave impeachment powers to Congress.
C) limited presidents to two terms of office.
D) provided for the direct election of the president by the people.
E) granted 18-year-olds the right to vote.

Answer: C

Since World War II, United States presidents have

Since World War II, United States presidents have

A) except for Bill Clinton, first served as vice president.
B) had very similar career backgrounds.
C) all previously served as governors.
D) come from a diversity of career experiences.
E) all served as United States senators.

Answer: D

_____ was widely regarded to be the worst and most ineffective president.

_____ was widely regarded to be the worst and most ineffective president.

A) Warren Harding
B) Richard Nixon
C) Ronald Reagan
D) Bill Clinton
E) Andrew Johnson






Answer: A

Which president was a political scientist?

Which president was a political scientist?

A) Ronald Reagan
B) James Madison
C) Richard Nixon
D) Bill Clinton
E) Woodrow Wilson

Answer: E

How many presidents were political scientists?

How many presidents were political scientists?

A) about half of them
B) one
C) all but one of them
D) two
E) all of them





Answer: B

According to the original Constitution, the president must be

According to the original Constitution, the president must be

A) at least 35 years old.
B) a resident of the United States for at least five years.
C) a citizen of the United States for at least ten years.
D) a white man.
E) all of the above except D




Answer: A

All presidents but one have been

All presidents but one have been

A) Protestant.
B) Catholic.
C) Hare Krishna.
D) atheist.
E) Evangelical Christian.

Answer: A

According to the Constitution, a president must be at least ________ years of age.

According to the Constitution, a president must be at least ________ years of age.

A) 35
B) 30
C) 40
D) 25
E) 21




Answer: A

Americans tend to

Americans tend to

A) have low expectations for the president.
B) prefer a concentration of power in the presidency.
C) have a high degree of trust in strong leadership and political authority.
D) look back longingly on the great, powerful presidents.
E) Not give a crap about anything.

Answer: D

Americans want a strong president,

Americans want a strong president,

A) but do not like a concentration of power.
B) and do not care whether the strength is used for good or for ill.
C) and would like to abolish all checks on presidential power.
D) but do not expect much from any president.
E) but want an even stronger Congress.






Answer: A

Richard Neustadt has argued that presidential power is the power to

Richard Neustadt has argued that presidential power is the power to

A) instruct.
B) command.
C) educate.
D) control.
E) persuade.




Answer: E

As Richard Neustadt has argued, presidential power is probably best understood as the power to

As Richard Neustadt has argued, presidential power is probably best understood as the power to

A) persuade.
B) command.
C) control.
D) harass.
E) veto.





Answer: A

The principal reason that presidents have trouble getting things done is that

The principal reason that presidents have trouble getting things done is that

A) most are weak and indecisive and do not try to do much.
B) they are often upstaged or undermined by their own vice presidents.
C) other policymakers with whom they deal have their own agendas, interests, and sources of power.
D) they are frequently overruled by the Supreme Court.
E) the presidency is mostly a ceremonial job and the president is not expected to do much.

Answer: C

The case involving Eli Lilly and Company illustrates how

The case involving Eli Lilly and Company illustrates how

A) little influence special interests actually have on Congress.
B) special interests can still bribe members of Congress.
C) special interests' campaign contributions can influence congressional action.
D) Congress can regulate the activities of special interests.
E) the increasing importance of multinational corporations.

Answer: C

A(n) ________ is a party's official selection of a candidate to run for office.

A(n) ________ is a party's official selection of a candidate to run for office.

A) appointment
B) nomination
C) conversion
D) imprimatur
E) endorsement





Answer: B

Nomination for public office is

Nomination for public office is

A) a party's selection of a candidate.
B) being appointed to a government post.
C) a win in key state primaries.
D) a victory in the general election.
E) the incumbent's selection of a candidate.





Answer: A

In most advanced industrialized countries, national campaigns

In most advanced industrialized countries, national campaigns

A) are even less dignified than in the United States.
B) occur once every four years.
C) are limited by law to no more than two months.
D) are longer than American elections.
E) occur only once every seven years.

Answer: C

The Democratic and Republican candidates for president are formally nominated by the

The Democratic and Republican candidates for president are formally nominated by the

A) presidential caucuses.
B) presidential primaries.
C) electoral college.
D) national party conventions.
E) national committees.






Answer: D

The first presidential caucus of the campaign season is traditionally held in

The first presidential caucus of the campaign season is traditionally held in

A) Delaware.
B) California.
C) Minnesota.
D) New Hampshire.
E) Iowa.






Answer: E

Which of the following is TRUE about the presidential nomination process?

Which of the following is TRUE about the presidential nomination process?

A) In most states, it is the party leadership that chooses the delegates, and ordinary party voters have no say.
B) In most states, presidential primaries are held with the national convention delegates allocated to each candidate in rough proximity to their percentage of popular vote.
C) In most states, caucuses of interested party voters are held to begin the delegate selection process; only a small percentage of party voters attend, but it is open.
D) Presidential candidates are chosen by their party's senators and representatives in Congress.
E) Although caucuses or presidential primaries are held in all states, these are mere beauty contests; convention delegates are chosen earlier by party officials who are uninterested in the opinions of party voters.

Answer: B

Precinct-level presidential caucuses

Precinct-level presidential caucuses

A) directly choose national convention delegates.
B) determine how many votes that state will cast for each of the presidential candidates at the national convention.
C) have absolutely nothing to do with choosing delegates to the major parties' national nominating conventions.
D) choose delegates to state conventions where delegates to the national convention are selected.
E) choose delegates to county caucuses/conventions where delegates to the state convention are selected, then the state convention chooses national convention delegates.

Answer: E

The presidential primary was begun in the early twentieth century, most strongly pushed by

The presidential primary was begun in the early twentieth century, most strongly pushed by

A) Democratic party leaders in Congress.
B) Republican party leaders in Congress.
C) political reformers who wanted to take nominations out of the hands of party bosses.
D) party bosses who wanted to take nominations out of the hands of political reformers.
E) the members of the electoral college.

Answer: C