AP Gov AP Test Study Guide

The concept that the government's authority originates from the people, exemplified in the Declaration of Independence.

A system where elected representatives govern, reflecting the will of the people through elections.

Emphasizes broad political involvement as crucial for democracy, evident in universal suffrage.

Involves interest groups advocating for policies, shaping governance, and policy-making processes.

Acknowledges the disproportionate influence of the wealthy and elites in governance, as discussed in Federalist 51 and Brutus 1.

A bicameral legislature balancing state interests, with the House based on population and the Senate with equal representation.

A system to elect the President, requiring 270 votes, with each state having electors based on its congressional representation.

Outlines the amendment process, including proposing amendments by Congress or state legislatures and ratification by states or conventions.

Mechanisms to prevent the abuse of power, including separation of powers and impeachment to ensure accountability.

Division of powers between state and federal governments, with grants like block grants, categorical grants, and revenue sharing influencing governance.

Directives issued by the President that carry the force of law without requiring congressional approval, often related to areas like the military or bureaucracy.

The President's authority to withhold information from the public if deemed necessary for the greater good.

Guidelines provided by the President when signing a law to indicate how it should be implemented.

The advantage held by current officeholders due to factors like name recognition, media coverage, and campaign funds.

Primary elections where voters are not required to declare a party affiliation.

Primary elections where voters must be registered with a specific party to participate.

Meetings held by party officials to select delegates for the national conference and nominees, usually at a local level.

Events where Democrats and Republicans officially nominate their candidates for the presidential election.

System where states' votes determine the President, with each state's electors equal to its representatives and senators.

Alexander Hamilton's argument for a single executive to facilitate decision-making during crises and enhance accountability.

The Supreme Court's authority to declare legislative or executive actions unconstitutional.

Constitutionally protected freedoms safeguarding citizens' opinions, property, and rights against government interference.

Key cases like Engel vs. Vitale, Wisconsin vs. Yoder, Tinker vs. Des Moines, Schenck vs. US, and New York Times vs. US.

Protects against unreasonable searches and seizures, requiring warrants based on probable cause and excluding evidence obtained unlawfully.

Ensures due process, protection against self-incrimination, and prohibits double jeopardy and deprivation of life, liberty, or property without due process.

A group of citizens who decide whether a person should be indicted on criminal charges based on evidence presented to them.

Protects an individual acquitted of a crime from being charged with the same crime again in the same jurisdiction.

The right to remain silent and have an attorney present during questioning for individuals in custody suspected of criminal activity.

Individuals cannot be compelled to give testimony that might lead to charges against them, with exceptions like the public safety exception.

Guarantees the right to counsel, a speedy and public trial, and an impartial jury.

Prohibits excessive bail and punishment.

Process where the Supreme Court applies rights from the Bill of Rights to the states, setting precedents for specific rights.

Government protection from discrimination based on characteristics like race, national origin, religion, and sex under the Equal Protection Clause.

Belief that individuals are responsible for themselves and their decisions, influencing trust in the government.

Belief that everyone has an equal chance to succeed based on effort, not favoring equality of success.

Government's use of taxes/spending to impact unemployment or the economy.

Actions by the FED like open market operations, discount rate, reserve requirement.

Supports government involvement in healthcare, education, and religious freedoms.

Opposes government healthcare, favors state/local power over federal.

Voting based on self-interest.

Voting based on candidates' past performance.

Voting based on candidates' future promises.

Voting based on political party affiliation.

Percentage of eligible voters who cast their votes.

Media deciding what issues are newsworthy.

Media revealing election winners before polls close.

Media monitoring government/business activities.

State where party support levels are close, elections swing.

Campaign efforts to mobilize supporters.

Shift in voter support from one party to another over time.