US Government · K-12

Branches of Government Basics

The three branches of the US federal government, their core powers, and checks and balances, for middle school civics.

33 cards · basic cards · AI-written, checked twice. Edit anything.

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What is the legislative branch?
The branch of government that makes federal laws; consists of Congress (Senate and House of Representatives)
What are the two chambers of Congress?
The Senate and the House of Representatives
How many senators does each state send to Congress?
Two senators
How long is a senator's term in office?
Six years
How many voting members does the House of Representatives have?
435 members
How long is a House member's term in office?
Two years
Which chamber of Congress represents states based on population?
The House of Representatives
Which chamber of Congress gives every state equal representation?
The Senate
What is the primary power of the legislative branch?
To make federal laws
What is the power of the purse?
Congress's power to collect taxes and decide how to spend federal money
Which branch has the power to declare war?
The legislative branch (Congress)
Can Congress override a presidential veto?
Yes, with a two-thirds majority vote in both chambers
What is impeachment?
The power of the House of Representatives to formally charge a federal official with wrongdoing
Which chamber conducts impeachment trials?
The Senate
Which chamber must confirm presidential cabinet members and federal judges?
The Senate

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