Edexcel Politics A-Level: US Politics | Practice Test / Quiz / MCQs

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Edexcel Politics A-Level: US Politics

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Avg score: 90% • Most missed: “Pramaries and caucuses What are the primaries?”

A-level US politics topics are:

1. The US Constitution and federalism
2. US Congress
3. US presidency
4. US Supreme Court and US civil rights
5. US democracy and participation
6. Comparative theories.

Edexcel Politics A-Level: US Politics

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25 Questions

1. CP Differences between the power of the PM and president (4)

Prevents any one person, party or institution from holding all the power - Ensures all interests considered -> common for different parties to control -> more inclusive policy - However -> may just be political gridlock -> no policy implemented leaving all voters worse offPM is drawn from Parliament after an election and is usually head of the largest party, they do not have to be elected as PM -> the president is directly elected by the whole country and thus recieves a direct mandate - Fusion of powers, PM and cabinet also part of legislature -> SOP president is directly seperated from the legislature - PM only retains power so long as they hold the confidence of Parliament, they are dependent on the support of their party -> President's position is not dependent on their party nor a congressional majority, even common for governance under divided government - Cabinet plays a key role in restricting the PM as their power relies on the support of thier parliamentary base, of that support is withdrawn the PM may struggle to retain their office and is likely to face challenges from within their cabinet -> the Constitution gives the president sole authority to head the executive, this means theat the power within the executive is unrivalledDemocrats have long favoured social welfare, they argue the economic system provides an unjust degree of inequality and that it is their duty to interfere -> tend to adopt increased benefits and more social programs - Republicans emphasise personal responsibilty and accept the need for social welfare although tend to restrict it -> for example the ACA passed in 2010 under Obama and aimed to grant / subsidise healthcare insurance for 46m Americans who were on low income -> all republicans in the House and Senate opposed the bill and helped to repeal major aspects of it when Trump gained office1. United parties - United nature of the parties in the UK means civil rights interest groups have less sucess in lobbying legislative politicians compared to the US - In the UK there is a much higher tendency to vote in a block 2. Access points - Marks a central difference, US groups have far more political institutions to lobby and therefore a greater chance of success - In the UK if the incumbent government cannot be convinced then there is little hope for interest groups 3. Right protection - With arguably stronger rights protection in the US, civil rights groups are far more likely to be successful compared to the UK - Groups in the US tend to enact litigation more, reflecting the stronger protection through courts

2. How democratic is the constitution? - checks & balances Think divided gov

Prevents any one person, party or institution from holding all the power - Ensures all interests considered -> common for different parties to control -> more inclusive policy - However -> may just be political gridlock -> no policy implemented leaving all voters worse offPM is drawn from Parliament after an election and is usually head of the largest party, they do not have to be elected as PM -> the president is directly elected by the whole country and thus recieves a direct mandate - Fusion of powers, PM and cabinet also part of legislature -> SOP president is directly seperated from the legislature - PM only retains power so long as they hold the confidence of Parliament, they are dependent on the support of their party -> President's position is not dependent on their party nor a congressional majority, even common for governance under divided government - Cabinet plays a key role in restricting the PM as their power relies on the support of thier parliamentary base, of that support is withdrawn the PM may struggle to retain their office and is likely to face challenges from within their cabinet -> the Constitution gives the president sole authority to head the executive, this means theat the power within the executive is unrivalled1. United parties - United nature of the parties in the UK means civil rights interest groups have less sucess in lobbying legislative politicians compared to the US - In the UK there is a much higher tendency to vote in a block 2. Access points - Marks a central difference, US groups have far more political institutions to lobby and therefore a greater chance of success - In the UK if the incumbent government cannot be convinced then there is little hope for interest groups 3. Right protection - With arguably stronger rights protection in the US, civil rights groups are far more likely to be successful compared to the UK - Groups in the US tend to enact litigation more, reflecting the stronger protection through courtsDemocrats have long favoured social welfare, they argue the economic system provides an unjust degree of inequality and that it is their duty to interfere -> tend to adopt increased benefits and more social programs - Republicans emphasise personal responsibilty and accept the need for social welfare although tend to restrict it -> for example the ACA passed in 2010 under Obama and aimed to grant / subsidise healthcare insurance for 46m Americans who were on low income -> all republicans in the House and Senate opposed the bill and helped to repeal major aspects of it when Trump gained office

3. Party ideas - provision of social welfare General tendencies Example for reps

Prevents any one person, party or institution from holding all the power - Ensures all interests considered -> common for different parties to control -> more inclusive policy - However -> may just be political gridlock -> no policy implemented leaving all voters worse offPM is drawn from Parliament after an election and is usually head of the largest party, they do not have to be elected as PM -> the president is directly elected by the whole country and thus recieves a direct mandate - Fusion of powers, PM and cabinet also part of legislature -> SOP president is directly seperated from the legislature - PM only retains power so long as they hold the confidence of Parliament, they are dependent on the support of their party -> President's position is not dependent on their party nor a congressional majority, even common for governance under divided government - Cabinet plays a key role in restricting the PM as their power relies on the support of thier parliamentary base, of that support is withdrawn the PM may struggle to retain their office and is likely to face challenges from within their cabinet -> the Constitution gives the president sole authority to head the executive, this means theat the power within the executive is unrivalled1. United parties - United nature of the parties in the UK means civil rights interest groups have less sucess in lobbying legislative politicians compared to the US - In the UK there is a much higher tendency to vote in a block 2. Access points - Marks a central difference, US groups have far more political institutions to lobby and therefore a greater chance of success - In the UK if the incumbent government cannot be convinced then there is little hope for interest groups 3. Right protection - With arguably stronger rights protection in the US, civil rights groups are far more likely to be successful compared to the UK - Groups in the US tend to enact litigation more, reflecting the stronger protection through courtsDemocrats have long favoured social welfare, they argue the economic system provides an unjust degree of inequality and that it is their duty to interfere -> tend to adopt increased benefits and more social programs - Republicans emphasise personal responsibilty and accept the need for social welfare although tend to restrict it -> for example the ACA passed in 2010 under Obama and aimed to grant / subsidise healthcare insurance for 46m Americans who were on low income -> all republicans in the House and Senate opposed the bill and helped to repeal major aspects of it when Trump gained office

4. CP Interest groups protecting civil liberties Arguments for the UK groups being less effective (3)

Prevents any one person, party or institution from holding all the power - Ensures all interests considered -> common for different parties to control -> more inclusive policy - However -> may just be political gridlock -> no policy implemented leaving all voters worse off1. United parties - United nature of the parties in the UK means civil rights interest groups have less sucess in lobbying legislative politicians compared to the US - In the UK there is a much higher tendency to vote in a block 2. Access points - Marks a central difference, US groups have far more political institutions to lobby and therefore a greater chance of success - In the UK if the incumbent government cannot be convinced then there is little hope for interest groups 3. Right protection - With arguably stronger rights protection in the US, civil rights groups are far more likely to be successful compared to the UK - Groups in the US tend to enact litigation more, reflecting the stronger protection through courtsPM is drawn from Parliament after an election and is usually head of the largest party, they do not have to be elected as PM -> the president is directly elected by the whole country and thus recieves a direct mandate - Fusion of powers, PM and cabinet also part of legislature -> SOP president is directly seperated from the legislature - PM only retains power so long as they hold the confidence of Parliament, they are dependent on the support of their party -> President's position is not dependent on their party nor a congressional majority, even common for governance under divided government - Cabinet plays a key role in restricting the PM as their power relies on the support of thier parliamentary base, of that support is withdrawn the PM may struggle to retain their office and is likely to face challenges from within their cabinet -> the Constitution gives the president sole authority to head the executive, this means theat the power within the executive is unrivalledDemocrats have long favoured social welfare, they argue the economic system provides an unjust degree of inequality and that it is their duty to interfere -> tend to adopt increased benefits and more social programs - Republicans emphasise personal responsibilty and accept the need for social welfare although tend to restrict it -> for example the ACA passed in 2010 under Obama and aimed to grant / subsidise healthcare insurance for 46m Americans who were on low income -> all republicans in the House and Senate opposed the bill and helped to repeal major aspects of it when Trump gained office

5. Single issue group - American Civil Liberties Union

ACLU aims to protect civil liberties, generally through litigation - Has over 1 million members, gained 120,000 new members shortly after Trump was elected - Ultra-liberal and launched legal action against groups such as the KKK and Westboro Baptist ChurchPM is drawn from Parliament after an election and is usually head of the largest party, they do not have to be elected as PM -> the president is directly elected by the whole country and thus recieves a direct mandate - Fusion of powers, PM and cabinet also part of legislature -> SOP president is directly seperated from the legislature - PM only retains power so long as they hold the confidence of Parliament, they are dependent on the support of their party -> President's position is not dependent on their party nor a congressional majority, even common for governance under divided government - Cabinet plays a key role in restricting the PM as their power relies on the support of thier parliamentary base, of that support is withdrawn the PM may struggle to retain their office and is likely to face challenges from within their cabinet -> the Constitution gives the president sole authority to head the executive, this means theat the power within the executive is unrivalledPrevents any one person, party or institution from holding all the power - Ensures all interests considered -> common for different parties to control -> more inclusive policy - However -> may just be political gridlock -> no policy implemented leaving all voters worse offDemocrats have long favoured social welfare, they argue the economic system provides an unjust degree of inequality and that it is their duty to interfere -> tend to adopt increased benefits and more social programs - Republicans emphasise personal responsibilty and accept the need for social welfare although tend to restrict it -> for example the ACA passed in 2010 under Obama and aimed to grant / subsidise healthcare insurance for 46m Americans who were on low income -> all republicans in the House and Senate opposed the bill and helped to repeal major aspects of it when Trump gained office

6. CP Weaknesses of Congress and Parliament Representation Legislation Checks

PM is drawn from Parliament after an election and is usually head of the largest party, they do not have to be elected as PM -> the president is directly elected by the whole country and thus recieves a direct mandate - Fusion of powers, PM and cabinet also part of legislature -> SOP president is directly seperated from the legislature - PM only retains power so long as they hold the confidence of Parliament, they are dependent on the support of their party -> President's position is not dependent on their party nor a congressional majority, even common for governance under divided government - Cabinet plays a key role in restricting the PM as their power relies on the support of thier parliamentary base, of that support is withdrawn the PM may struggle to retain their office and is likely to face challenges from within their cabinet -> the Constitution gives the president sole authority to head the executive, this means theat the power within the executive is unrivalledRepresentation - Use of FPTP leads to a lack of voter choice and safe seats - Party with the most votes gets a disproportionate 'winner's bonus' Legislation - Parliament is mainly a reactive body due to the dominance of the government over the legislative agenda -> fairly limited in its challenging on the government - Power is shared in Congress meaning it is harder to pass legislation -> pork-barelling leads to financially wasteful bills Checks - Parliament arguably has insufficient checks due to government majority, patronage and whips -> only 1 chamber with checking power too - Congress provides excessive checks leading to a lack of legislative output -> compounded by partisanshipPrevents any one person, party or institution from holding all the power - Ensures all interests considered -> common for different parties to control -> more inclusive policy - However -> may just be political gridlock -> no policy implemented leaving all voters worse offDemocrats have long favoured social welfare, they argue the economic system provides an unjust degree of inequality and that it is their duty to interfere -> tend to adopt increased benefits and more social programs - Republicans emphasise personal responsibilty and accept the need for social welfare although tend to restrict it -> for example the ACA passed in 2010 under Obama and aimed to grant / subsidise healthcare insurance for 46m Americans who were on low income -> all republicans in the House and Senate opposed the bill and helped to repeal major aspects of it when Trump gained office

7. Political or judicial nature Unlimited jurisdiction or enforcing law?

PM is drawn from Parliament after an election and is usually head of the largest party, they do not have to be elected as PM -> the president is directly elected by the whole country and thus recieves a direct mandate - Fusion of powers, PM and cabinet also part of legislature -> SOP president is directly seperated from the legislature - PM only retains power so long as they hold the confidence of Parliament, they are dependent on the support of their party -> President's position is not dependent on their party nor a congressional majority, even common for governance under divided government - Cabinet plays a key role in restricting the PM as their power relies on the support of thier parliamentary base, of that support is withdrawn the PM may struggle to retain their office and is likely to face challenges from within their cabinet -> the Constitution gives the president sole authority to head the executive, this means theat the power within the executive is unrivalledPrevents any one person, party or institution from holding all the power - Ensures all interests considered -> common for different parties to control -> more inclusive policy - However -> may just be political gridlock -> no policy implemented leaving all voters worse offDemocrats have long favoured social welfare, they argue the economic system provides an unjust degree of inequality and that it is their duty to interfere -> tend to adopt increased benefits and more social programs - Republicans emphasise personal responsibilty and accept the need for social welfare although tend to restrict it -> for example the ACA passed in 2010 under Obama and aimed to grant / subsidise healthcare insurance for 46m Americans who were on low income -> all republicans in the House and Senate opposed the bill and helped to repeal major aspects of it when Trump gained officeJudicial - Can only apply the constitution and the law which is created by politicians, justices are not able to initiate cases - Areas which court cannot act in eg annual budget or presidential military strategy, also unlikely for any intervention in foreign policy / defence Political - Justices have a big political impact, affecting power of political institutions, rights of individuals - The Court is often likened to a policy maker for it appears to use personal values to pursue its policy goals

8. The Imperilled presidency

PM is drawn from Parliament after an election and is usually head of the largest party, they do not have to be elected as PM -> the president is directly elected by the whole country and thus recieves a direct mandate - Fusion of powers, PM and cabinet also part of legislature -> SOP president is directly seperated from the legislature - PM only retains power so long as they hold the confidence of Parliament, they are dependent on the support of their party -> President's position is not dependent on their party nor a congressional majority, even common for governance under divided government - Cabinet plays a key role in restricting the PM as their power relies on the support of thier parliamentary base, of that support is withdrawn the PM may struggle to retain their office and is likely to face challenges from within their cabinet -> the Constitution gives the president sole authority to head the executive, this means theat the power within the executive is unrivalledWhere the president does not have enough power to be effective, because of the complexity of the executive branch and excessive limitationsPrevents any one person, party or institution from holding all the power - Ensures all interests considered -> common for different parties to control -> more inclusive policy - However -> may just be political gridlock -> no policy implemented leaving all voters worse offDemocrats have long favoured social welfare, they argue the economic system provides an unjust degree of inequality and that it is their duty to interfere -> tend to adopt increased benefits and more social programs - Republicans emphasise personal responsibilty and accept the need for social welfare although tend to restrict it -> for example the ACA passed in 2010 under Obama and aimed to grant / subsidise healthcare insurance for 46m Americans who were on low income -> all republicans in the House and Senate opposed the bill and helped to repeal major aspects of it when Trump gained office

9. Informal sources of presidential power - The cabinet

Prevents any one person, party or institution from holding all the power - Ensures all interests considered -> common for different parties to control -> more inclusive policy - However -> may just be political gridlock -> no policy implemented leaving all voters worse offDemocrats have long favoured social welfare, they argue the economic system provides an unjust degree of inequality and that it is their duty to interfere -> tend to adopt increased benefits and more social programs - Republicans emphasise personal responsibilty and accept the need for social welfare although tend to restrict it -> for example the ACA passed in 2010 under Obama and aimed to grant / subsidise healthcare insurance for 46m Americans who were on low income -> all republicans in the House and Senate opposed the bill and helped to repeal major aspects of it when Trump gained officePM is drawn from Parliament after an election and is usually head of the largest party, they do not have to be elected as PM -> the president is directly elected by the whole country and thus recieves a direct mandate - Fusion of powers, PM and cabinet also part of legislature -> SOP president is directly seperated from the legislature - PM only retains power so long as they hold the confidence of Parliament, they are dependent on the support of their party -> President's position is not dependent on their party nor a congressional majority, even common for governance under divided government - Cabinet plays a key role in restricting the PM as their power relies on the support of thier parliamentary base, of that support is withdrawn the PM may struggle to retain their office and is likely to face challenges from within their cabinet -> the Constitution gives the president sole authority to head the executive, this means theat the power within the executive is unrivalledMembers help the president make and execute policy - As a collective group they have limited power, its main influence lies with individuals within - Eg in the Obama admin, John Kerry (Secretary of State) took a key role in developing foreign policy regarding Syria - On the other hand, members have no constitutional power nor an electoral mandate (except VP) - The VP's main influence involves their presence and advice given to the president

10. Voting patterns - race Black Hispanic White Other factors at play

PM is drawn from Parliament after an election and is usually head of the largest party, they do not have to be elected as PM -> the president is directly elected by the whole country and thus recieves a direct mandate - Fusion of powers, PM and cabinet also part of legislature -> SOP president is directly seperated from the legislature - PM only retains power so long as they hold the confidence of Parliament, they are dependent on the support of their party -> President's position is not dependent on their party nor a congressional majority, even common for governance under divided government - Cabinet plays a key role in restricting the PM as their power relies on the support of thier parliamentary base, of that support is withdrawn the PM may struggle to retain their office and is likely to face challenges from within their cabinet -> the Constitution gives the president sole authority to head the executive, this means theat the power within the executive is unrivalledPrevents any one person, party or institution from holding all the power - Ensures all interests considered -> common for different parties to control -> more inclusive policy - However -> may just be political gridlock -> no policy implemented leaving all voters worse offDemocrats have long favoured social welfare, they argue the economic system provides an unjust degree of inequality and that it is their duty to interfere -> tend to adopt increased benefits and more social programs - Republicans emphasise personal responsibilty and accept the need for social welfare although tend to restrict it -> for example the ACA passed in 2010 under Obama and aimed to grant / subsidise healthcare insurance for 46m Americans who were on low income -> all republicans in the House and Senate opposed the bill and helped to repeal major aspects of it when Trump gained officeBlack voters strongly supported democrats with 93% supporting Obama in 2012, they see republicans as trying to limit equality - Democrats strongly support anti-discrimination law and give greater equality of opportunity - Hispanic vote more volitile but generally favour the left -> Trump's comments have angered many hispanics - White voters are more evenly split leaning slightly to the right - There are socio-economic factors also at play eg racial minorities more likely to be poorer and thus vote democrat

11. Constitutions - Codification (2d 1s)

PM is drawn from Parliament after an election and is usually head of the largest party, they do not have to be elected as PM -> the president is directly elected by the whole country and thus recieves a direct mandate - Fusion of powers, PM and cabinet also part of legislature -> SOP president is directly seperated from the legislature - PM only retains power so long as they hold the confidence of Parliament, they are dependent on the support of their party -> President's position is not dependent on their party nor a congressional majority, even common for governance under divided government - Cabinet plays a key role in restricting the PM as their power relies on the support of thier parliamentary base, of that support is withdrawn the PM may struggle to retain their office and is likely to face challenges from within their cabinet -> the Constitution gives the president sole authority to head the executive, this means theat the power within the executive is unrivalledPrevents any one person, party or institution from holding all the power - Ensures all interests considered -> common for different parties to control -> more inclusive policy - However -> may just be political gridlock -> no policy implemented leaving all voters worse offThe US is codified whislt the UK is not - UK has a number of different sources (common law, conventions, statute law) whilst the US has a single source which provides it with greater clarity - In both countries politicians have stretched their constitutional rolesDemocrats have long favoured social welfare, they argue the economic system provides an unjust degree of inequality and that it is their duty to interfere -> tend to adopt increased benefits and more social programs - Republicans emphasise personal responsibilty and accept the need for social welfare although tend to restrict it -> for example the ACA passed in 2010 under Obama and aimed to grant / subsidise healthcare insurance for 46m Americans who were on low income -> all republicans in the House and Senate opposed the bill and helped to repeal major aspects of it when Trump gained office

12. CP Location of sovereignty

UK - Parliamentary sovereignty -> Parliament has absolute power -> Parliament can easily amend constitution with 50% vote US - Constitutional sovereignty -> Constitution is sovereign, upheld by the Supreme Court -> Constitution is entrenched, protected from change due to hard amendment process - Has a major impact on the power of the courts, UK is much less powerful as Parliament and the gov can easily change the consitution or law - US on the other hand can deem acts of Congress unconstitutionalDemocrats have long favoured social welfare, they argue the economic system provides an unjust degree of inequality and that it is their duty to interfere -> tend to adopt increased benefits and more social programs - Republicans emphasise personal responsibilty and accept the need for social welfare although tend to restrict it -> for example the ACA passed in 2010 under Obama and aimed to grant / subsidise healthcare insurance for 46m Americans who were on low income -> all republicans in the House and Senate opposed the bill and helped to repeal major aspects of it when Trump gained officePM is drawn from Parliament after an election and is usually head of the largest party, they do not have to be elected as PM -> the president is directly elected by the whole country and thus recieves a direct mandate - Fusion of powers, PM and cabinet also part of legislature -> SOP president is directly seperated from the legislature - PM only retains power so long as they hold the confidence of Parliament, they are dependent on the support of their party -> President's position is not dependent on their party nor a congressional majority, even common for governance under divided government - Cabinet plays a key role in restricting the PM as their power relies on the support of thier parliamentary base, of that support is withdrawn the PM may struggle to retain their office and is likely to face challenges from within their cabinet -> the Constitution gives the president sole authority to head the executive, this means theat the power within the executive is unrivalledPrevents any one person, party or institution from holding all the power - Ensures all interests considered -> common for different parties to control -> more inclusive policy - However -> may just be political gridlock -> no policy implemented leaving all voters worse off

13. What is EXOP?

The Executive Office of the President - The collection of units provide policy advice and administrative support - They advise on budgetary issues and the social and economic impacts of decisions - The office also manages the president and their schedulePrevents any one person, party or institution from holding all the power - Ensures all interests considered -> common for different parties to control -> more inclusive policy - However -> may just be political gridlock -> no policy implemented leaving all voters worse offPM is drawn from Parliament after an election and is usually head of the largest party, they do not have to be elected as PM -> the president is directly elected by the whole country and thus recieves a direct mandate - Fusion of powers, PM and cabinet also part of legislature -> SOP president is directly seperated from the legislature - PM only retains power so long as they hold the confidence of Parliament, they are dependent on the support of their party -> President's position is not dependent on their party nor a congressional majority, even common for governance under divided government - Cabinet plays a key role in restricting the PM as their power relies on the support of thier parliamentary base, of that support is withdrawn the PM may struggle to retain their office and is likely to face challenges from within their cabinet -> the Constitution gives the president sole authority to head the executive, this means theat the power within the executive is unrivalledDemocrats have long favoured social welfare, they argue the economic system provides an unjust degree of inequality and that it is their duty to interfere -> tend to adopt increased benefits and more social programs - Republicans emphasise personal responsibilty and accept the need for social welfare although tend to restrict it -> for example the ACA passed in 2010 under Obama and aimed to grant / subsidise healthcare insurance for 46m Americans who were on low income -> all republicans in the House and Senate opposed the bill and helped to repeal major aspects of it when Trump gained office

14. CP the rational approach: rights protection

-> The rational approach can be used to compare the 2 countries when judges appear to act according to their own beliefs - In both countries judges have the scope to direct their own behaviour and operate as rational actors who pursue their own ideological preferences - Despite the more apparent structures in the US, justices of the Supreme Court have greater power as individuals to bring about change due to the vagueness of their constitutionDemocrats have long favoured social welfare, they argue the economic system provides an unjust degree of inequality and that it is their duty to interfere -> tend to adopt increased benefits and more social programs - Republicans emphasise personal responsibilty and accept the need for social welfare although tend to restrict it -> for example the ACA passed in 2010 under Obama and aimed to grant / subsidise healthcare insurance for 46m Americans who were on low income -> all republicans in the House and Senate opposed the bill and helped to repeal major aspects of it when Trump gained officePM is drawn from Parliament after an election and is usually head of the largest party, they do not have to be elected as PM -> the president is directly elected by the whole country and thus recieves a direct mandate - Fusion of powers, PM and cabinet also part of legislature -> SOP president is directly seperated from the legislature - PM only retains power so long as they hold the confidence of Parliament, they are dependent on the support of their party -> President's position is not dependent on their party nor a congressional majority, even common for governance under divided government - Cabinet plays a key role in restricting the PM as their power relies on the support of thier parliamentary base, of that support is withdrawn the PM may struggle to retain their office and is likely to face challenges from within their cabinet -> the Constitution gives the president sole authority to head the executive, this means theat the power within the executive is unrivalledPrevents any one person, party or institution from holding all the power - Ensures all interests considered -> common for different parties to control -> more inclusive policy - However -> may just be political gridlock -> no policy implemented leaving all voters worse off

15. The Obama presidency (3)

1. Introduced healthcare for all - Partially achieved through passing the Affordable Care Act and some executive orders - He had to compromise and drop plans for a federal health insurance company 2. Stimulus package - American Recovery and Reinvestment Act provided $787 bn to restart the economy after the crash and protect jobs 3. Closure of Guantanamo Bay - This was a partial success adn a partial failure, at the end of Obama's presidency there was still 41 prisoners however this had declined from 242 when he beganDemocrats have long favoured social welfare, they argue the economic system provides an unjust degree of inequality and that it is their duty to interfere -> tend to adopt increased benefits and more social programs - Republicans emphasise personal responsibilty and accept the need for social welfare although tend to restrict it -> for example the ACA passed in 2010 under Obama and aimed to grant / subsidise healthcare insurance for 46m Americans who were on low income -> all republicans in the House and Senate opposed the bill and helped to repeal major aspects of it when Trump gained officePrevents any one person, party or institution from holding all the power - Ensures all interests considered -> common for different parties to control -> more inclusive policy - However -> may just be political gridlock -> no policy implemented leaving all voters worse offPM is drawn from Parliament after an election and is usually head of the largest party, they do not have to be elected as PM -> the president is directly elected by the whole country and thus recieves a direct mandate - Fusion of powers, PM and cabinet also part of legislature -> SOP president is directly seperated from the legislature - PM only retains power so long as they hold the confidence of Parliament, they are dependent on the support of their party -> President's position is not dependent on their party nor a congressional majority, even common for governance under divided government - Cabinet plays a key role in restricting the PM as their power relies on the support of thier parliamentary base, of that support is withdrawn the PM may struggle to retain their office and is likely to face challenges from within their cabinet -> the Constitution gives the president sole authority to head the executive, this means theat the power within the executive is unrivalled

16. Functions / powers given to Congress by Constitution 4 main functions

PM is drawn from Parliament after an election and is usually head of the largest party, they do not have to be elected as PM -> the president is directly elected by the whole country and thus recieves a direct mandate - Fusion of powers, PM and cabinet also part of legislature -> SOP president is directly seperated from the legislature - PM only retains power so long as they hold the confidence of Parliament, they are dependent on the support of their party -> President's position is not dependent on their party nor a congressional majority, even common for governance under divided government - Cabinet plays a key role in restricting the PM as their power relies on the support of thier parliamentary base, of that support is withdrawn the PM may struggle to retain their office and is likely to face challenges from within their cabinet -> the Constitution gives the president sole authority to head the executive, this means theat the power within the executive is unrivalledLegislate: - Article 1 section 1 states all legislative powers shall be vested in Congress - Article 2 outlines pres veto can be overturned by 2/3 Representation: - Article 1 outlines the need for congressional elections Amend the Constitution: - Article v allows Congress to share this role with the states Declare war: - Article 1 gives Congress the right to initiate military action (pres also claims this power)Democrats have long favoured social welfare, they argue the economic system provides an unjust degree of inequality and that it is their duty to interfere -> tend to adopt increased benefits and more social programs - Republicans emphasise personal responsibilty and accept the need for social welfare although tend to restrict it -> for example the ACA passed in 2010 under Obama and aimed to grant / subsidise healthcare insurance for 46m Americans who were on low income -> all republicans in the House and Senate opposed the bill and helped to repeal major aspects of it when Trump gained officePrevents any one person, party or institution from holding all the power - Ensures all interests considered -> common for different parties to control -> more inclusive policy - However -> may just be political gridlock -> no policy implemented leaving all voters worse off

17. CP Independence of the judiciaries What is the main threat in the US What is the case in the UK General threat to both

PM is drawn from Parliament after an election and is usually head of the largest party, they do not have to be elected as PM -> the president is directly elected by the whole country and thus recieves a direct mandate - Fusion of powers, PM and cabinet also part of legislature -> SOP president is directly seperated from the legislature - PM only retains power so long as they hold the confidence of Parliament, they are dependent on the support of their party -> President's position is not dependent on their party nor a congressional majority, even common for governance under divided government - Cabinet plays a key role in restricting the PM as their power relies on the support of thier parliamentary base, of that support is withdrawn the PM may struggle to retain their office and is likely to face challenges from within their cabinet -> the Constitution gives the president sole authority to head the executive, this means theat the power within the executive is unrivalledPrevents any one person, party or institution from holding all the power - Ensures all interests considered -> common for different parties to control -> more inclusive policy - However -> may just be political gridlock -> no policy implemented leaving all voters worse offDemocrats have long favoured social welfare, they argue the economic system provides an unjust degree of inequality and that it is their duty to interfere -> tend to adopt increased benefits and more social programs - Republicans emphasise personal responsibilty and accept the need for social welfare although tend to restrict it -> for example the ACA passed in 2010 under Obama and aimed to grant / subsidise healthcare insurance for 46m Americans who were on low income -> all republicans in the House and Senate opposed the bill and helped to repeal major aspects of it when Trump gained officeJudges in both countries have high levels of independence through the security of tenure, allows them to exercise power freely without the fear of political reprecussions - Arguably the appointment process in the US undermines the independence of the court, the president and the Senate ratification system causes a political bias in the Supreme Court and politicises the whole process - In the UK judges are appointed through the Judicial Appointments Committee which ensure the independence of the appointments - In both countries, high-profile cases means there are usually external pressures, in the UK the government cannot criticise the decisions made by judges however this is common place in the US

18. CP Interest groups protecting civil liberties Arguments for the UK being more effective

Prevents any one person, party or institution from holding all the power - Ensures all interests considered -> common for different parties to control -> more inclusive policy - However -> may just be political gridlock -> no policy implemented leaving all voters worse offThe US political and constitution provide greater opportunities to protect rights but that does no make them better protected - UK arguably has a stronger tradition of respecting civil rights, given the maintenance of slavery and seperate facilities in the US were banned long after they were in the UK, paired with Trump's current philosophy with the wall and the travel ban - Have been issues in both countries about the power of the state in matters of national emergency eg the NSA and the mass surveillance on the citizens of the USPM is drawn from Parliament after an election and is usually head of the largest party, they do not have to be elected as PM -> the president is directly elected by the whole country and thus recieves a direct mandate - Fusion of powers, PM and cabinet also part of legislature -> SOP president is directly seperated from the legislature - PM only retains power so long as they hold the confidence of Parliament, they are dependent on the support of their party -> President's position is not dependent on their party nor a congressional majority, even common for governance under divided government - Cabinet plays a key role in restricting the PM as their power relies on the support of thier parliamentary base, of that support is withdrawn the PM may struggle to retain their office and is likely to face challenges from within their cabinet -> the Constitution gives the president sole authority to head the executive, this means theat the power within the executive is unrivalledDemocrats have long favoured social welfare, they argue the economic system provides an unjust degree of inequality and that it is their duty to interfere -> tend to adopt increased benefits and more social programs - Republicans emphasise personal responsibilty and accept the need for social welfare although tend to restrict it -> for example the ACA passed in 2010 under Obama and aimed to grant / subsidise healthcare insurance for 46m Americans who were on low income -> all republicans in the House and Senate opposed the bill and helped to repeal major aspects of it when Trump gained office

19. State power erosion - 3 reasons

1. Federal mandates 2. Fiscal powers 3. Interstate commercePrevents any one person, party or institution from holding all the power - Ensures all interests considered -> common for different parties to control -> more inclusive policy - However -> may just be political gridlock -> no policy implemented leaving all voters worse offPM is drawn from Parliament after an election and is usually head of the largest party, they do not have to be elected as PM -> the president is directly elected by the whole country and thus recieves a direct mandate - Fusion of powers, PM and cabinet also part of legislature -> SOP president is directly seperated from the legislature - PM only retains power so long as they hold the confidence of Parliament, they are dependent on the support of their party -> President's position is not dependent on their party nor a congressional majority, even common for governance under divided government - Cabinet plays a key role in restricting the PM as their power relies on the support of thier parliamentary base, of that support is withdrawn the PM may struggle to retain their office and is likely to face challenges from within their cabinet -> the Constitution gives the president sole authority to head the executive, this means theat the power within the executive is unrivalledDemocrats have long favoured social welfare, they argue the economic system provides an unjust degree of inequality and that it is their duty to interfere -> tend to adopt increased benefits and more social programs - Republicans emphasise personal responsibilty and accept the need for social welfare although tend to restrict it -> for example the ACA passed in 2010 under Obama and aimed to grant / subsidise healthcare insurance for 46m Americans who were on low income -> all republicans in the House and Senate opposed the bill and helped to repeal major aspects of it when Trump gained office

20. Party ideas - social and moral issues 2 examples

Democrats tend to support greater protection of individual liberty and prevention of discrimination - Modern democrats have supported stronger protection of rights for LGTB, women and racial minorities - Republicans often resisted such changes, promoting more traditional values -> often citing religion - Congressional vote to ban partial-birth abortion in 2003 was supported almost unanomously by republicans and opposed by democrats - Democrats have been very supportive of LGBT rights eg allowing trans people to choose the bathroom of their chosen gender whilst republicans have opposed such rights -> Obama cut federal funding to repblican dominated North Carlonina due to their rejection of this right -> Alabama just banned abortionPM is drawn from Parliament after an election and is usually head of the largest party, they do not have to be elected as PM -> the president is directly elected by the whole country and thus recieves a direct mandate - Fusion of powers, PM and cabinet also part of legislature -> SOP president is directly seperated from the legislature - PM only retains power so long as they hold the confidence of Parliament, they are dependent on the support of their party -> President's position is not dependent on their party nor a congressional majority, even common for governance under divided government - Cabinet plays a key role in restricting the PM as their power relies on the support of thier parliamentary base, of that support is withdrawn the PM may struggle to retain their office and is likely to face challenges from within their cabinet -> the Constitution gives the president sole authority to head the executive, this means theat the power within the executive is unrivalledPrevents any one person, party or institution from holding all the power - Ensures all interests considered -> common for different parties to control -> more inclusive policy - However -> may just be political gridlock -> no policy implemented leaving all voters worse offDemocrats have long favoured social welfare, they argue the economic system provides an unjust degree of inequality and that it is their duty to interfere -> tend to adopt increased benefits and more social programs - Republicans emphasise personal responsibilty and accept the need for social welfare although tend to restrict it -> for example the ACA passed in 2010 under Obama and aimed to grant / subsidise healthcare insurance for 46m Americans who were on low income -> all republicans in the House and Senate opposed the bill and helped to repeal major aspects of it when Trump gained office

21. Is the supreme court a political or independent institution?

Judicial - Constitution protects justices from political influence with life tenure and fixed salaries allowing for independence from the other branches Political - Politicians try to put pressure on justices, eg the president may attack rulings such as Obama attacking the court directly over the Citizens United v FEC case 2010 (super PACs)Democrats have long favoured social welfare, they argue the economic system provides an unjust degree of inequality and that it is their duty to interfere -> tend to adopt increased benefits and more social programs - Republicans emphasise personal responsibilty and accept the need for social welfare although tend to restrict it -> for example the ACA passed in 2010 under Obama and aimed to grant / subsidise healthcare insurance for 46m Americans who were on low income -> all republicans in the House and Senate opposed the bill and helped to repeal major aspects of it when Trump gained officePM is drawn from Parliament after an election and is usually head of the largest party, they do not have to be elected as PM -> the president is directly elected by the whole country and thus recieves a direct mandate - Fusion of powers, PM and cabinet also part of legislature -> SOP president is directly seperated from the legislature - PM only retains power so long as they hold the confidence of Parliament, they are dependent on the support of their party -> President's position is not dependent on their party nor a congressional majority, even common for governance under divided government - Cabinet plays a key role in restricting the PM as their power relies on the support of thier parliamentary base, of that support is withdrawn the PM may struggle to retain their office and is likely to face challenges from within their cabinet -> the Constitution gives the president sole authority to head the executive, this means theat the power within the executive is unrivalledPrevents any one person, party or institution from holding all the power - Ensures all interests considered -> common for different parties to control -> more inclusive policy - However -> may just be political gridlock -> no policy implemented leaving all voters worse off

22. CP Policy profiles - Economic policy Similarites But

Prevents any one person, party or institution from holding all the power - Ensures all interests considered -> common for different parties to control -> more inclusive policy - However -> may just be political gridlock -> no policy implemented leaving all voters worse offSimilarites: 1. Dems and labour - Favour an active government role, using economic policy to promote social justice - Favour higher government spending, especially on health, education and welfare 2. Conservatives and republicans - See government intervention into the economy as damaging the free market - Favour expenditure reductions, especially on welfare - Favour tax cuts But: - There has been a debate in both UK/US over the extent to which the left is committed to centre-left policies -> in the UK the Labour party has dropped their committment to nationalise and did not increase income tax under the Blair administrationPM is drawn from Parliament after an election and is usually head of the largest party, they do not have to be elected as PM -> the president is directly elected by the whole country and thus recieves a direct mandate - Fusion of powers, PM and cabinet also part of legislature -> SOP president is directly seperated from the legislature - PM only retains power so long as they hold the confidence of Parliament, they are dependent on the support of their party -> President's position is not dependent on their party nor a congressional majority, even common for governance under divided government - Cabinet plays a key role in restricting the PM as their power relies on the support of thier parliamentary base, of that support is withdrawn the PM may struggle to retain their office and is likely to face challenges from within their cabinet -> the Constitution gives the president sole authority to head the executive, this means theat the power within the executive is unrivalledDemocrats have long favoured social welfare, they argue the economic system provides an unjust degree of inequality and that it is their duty to interfere -> tend to adopt increased benefits and more social programs - Republicans emphasise personal responsibilty and accept the need for social welfare although tend to restrict it -> for example the ACA passed in 2010 under Obama and aimed to grant / subsidise healthcare insurance for 46m Americans who were on low income -> all republicans in the House and Senate opposed the bill and helped to repeal major aspects of it when Trump gained office

23. Formal sources of presidential power - The role as head of state What does it mean How does that help the president

The Head of State is the chief public representative of a country - Diplomatic and ceremonial duties such as visiting dignitaries and other heads of state tend to be involved - President is often a focal point in times of crisis - While this does not provide formal powers it does allow the extension of authority - The president is seen as a national leader who can direct foreign policy, the rise of the national media has allowed the president to deliver nation wide speeches which place influence on public opinion -> used by Trump frequentlyPrevents any one person, party or institution from holding all the power - Ensures all interests considered -> common for different parties to control -> more inclusive policy - However -> may just be political gridlock -> no policy implemented leaving all voters worse offDemocrats have long favoured social welfare, they argue the economic system provides an unjust degree of inequality and that it is their duty to interfere -> tend to adopt increased benefits and more social programs - Republicans emphasise personal responsibilty and accept the need for social welfare although tend to restrict it -> for example the ACA passed in 2010 under Obama and aimed to grant / subsidise healthcare insurance for 46m Americans who were on low income -> all republicans in the House and Senate opposed the bill and helped to repeal major aspects of it when Trump gained officePM is drawn from Parliament after an election and is usually head of the largest party, they do not have to be elected as PM -> the president is directly elected by the whole country and thus recieves a direct mandate - Fusion of powers, PM and cabinet also part of legislature -> SOP president is directly seperated from the legislature - PM only retains power so long as they hold the confidence of Parliament, they are dependent on the support of their party -> President's position is not dependent on their party nor a congressional majority, even common for governance under divided government - Cabinet plays a key role in restricting the PM as their power relies on the support of thier parliamentary base, of that support is withdrawn the PM may struggle to retain their office and is likely to face challenges from within their cabinet -> the Constitution gives the president sole authority to head the executive, this means theat the power within the executive is unrivalled

24. CS Republican invisible primaries 2015

PM is drawn from Parliament after an election and is usually head of the largest party, they do not have to be elected as PM -> the president is directly elected by the whole country and thus recieves a direct mandate - Fusion of powers, PM and cabinet also part of legislature -> SOP president is directly seperated from the legislature - PM only retains power so long as they hold the confidence of Parliament, they are dependent on the support of their party -> President's position is not dependent on their party nor a congressional majority, even common for governance under divided government - Cabinet plays a key role in restricting the PM as their power relies on the support of thier parliamentary base, of that support is withdrawn the PM may struggle to retain their office and is likely to face challenges from within their cabinet -> the Constitution gives the president sole authority to head the executive, this means theat the power within the executive is unrivalledRecord number of candidates, several televised debates before first votes cast - Jeb Bush was seen as a favourite, strong connections, record fundraising machine - Was eclipsed in media focus and popularity when Donald Trump entered the race -> initially branded as having no chance by political commentators -> However he soon overtook Bush in the polls and the rest is historyPrevents any one person, party or institution from holding all the power - Ensures all interests considered -> common for different parties to control -> more inclusive policy - However -> may just be political gridlock -> no policy implemented leaving all voters worse offDemocrats have long favoured social welfare, they argue the economic system provides an unjust degree of inequality and that it is their duty to interfere -> tend to adopt increased benefits and more social programs - Republicans emphasise personal responsibilty and accept the need for social welfare although tend to restrict it -> for example the ACA passed in 2010 under Obama and aimed to grant / subsidise healthcare insurance for 46m Americans who were on low income -> all republicans in the House and Senate opposed the bill and helped to repeal major aspects of it when Trump gained office

25. CP the structural approach: rights protection

-> Helps to identify the differences in power of the judiciaries, the consitution strongly affects the extent to which judges have an impact on the political system as a whole - US judiciary has a greater impact on the US government / politics by affecting: -> government policy (can overturn) -> power of political institutions -> level of rights protectionPrevents any one person, party or institution from holding all the power - Ensures all interests considered -> common for different parties to control -> more inclusive policy - However -> may just be political gridlock -> no policy implemented leaving all voters worse offDemocrats have long favoured social welfare, they argue the economic system provides an unjust degree of inequality and that it is their duty to interfere -> tend to adopt increased benefits and more social programs - Republicans emphasise personal responsibilty and accept the need for social welfare although tend to restrict it -> for example the ACA passed in 2010 under Obama and aimed to grant / subsidise healthcare insurance for 46m Americans who were on low income -> all republicans in the House and Senate opposed the bill and helped to repeal major aspects of it when Trump gained officePM is drawn from Parliament after an election and is usually head of the largest party, they do not have to be elected as PM -> the president is directly elected by the whole country and thus recieves a direct mandate - Fusion of powers, PM and cabinet also part of legislature -> SOP president is directly seperated from the legislature - PM only retains power so long as they hold the confidence of Parliament, they are dependent on the support of their party -> President's position is not dependent on their party nor a congressional majority, even common for governance under divided government - Cabinet plays a key role in restricting the PM as their power relies on the support of thier parliamentary base, of that support is withdrawn the PM may struggle to retain their office and is likely to face challenges from within their cabinet -> the Constitution gives the president sole authority to head the executive, this means theat the power within the executive is unrivalled

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❤ If you liked Fatskills, consider supporting us by checking out The Life Manuals You Never Got.

About | Explore | User Guide | Topics | Subjects | Doubt Solver | Career Aptitude Test | Answers | Free Tools | OSHA Basics Quiz | What Should We Know? Privacy | Terms |

Without work one finishes nothing. - Ralph Waldo Emerson© 2026 Fatskills.com

All trademarks, logos and brand names are the property of their respective owners. All company, product and service names used in this website are for identification purposes only. Use of these names, trademarks and brands does not imply endorsement.

About | Explore | User Guide | Topics | Subjects | Doubt Solver | Career Aptitude Test | Answers | Free Tools | OSHA Basics Quiz | What Should We Know?
Privacy | Terms |

Without work one finishes nothing. - Ralph Waldo Emerson
© 2026 Fatskills.com