TCI Chapter 9 The Constitution: A More Perfect Union How has the Constitution created “a more perfect union”
Structure of the Constitution Preamble: Statement of purpose 6 main goals Articles: I: Legislative Branch II: Executive Branch III: Judicial Branch IV: Relations among states V: Amendment Process VI: Federal Power VII: Ratification Amendments: 27 Total 1st 10 called the Bill of Rights
Popular Sovereignty (9.2) The idea that the government’s authority comes from the people Not from a ruler Not from a group of elites Not from God
The Preamble (9.1, 9.2) We the people of the United States, in order to form a more perfect Union, establish justice, ensure domestic tranquility, provide for the common defense, promote the general welfare, and secure the blessings of liberty to ourselves and our posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America.
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Article I: Legislative Branch (9.3)
The Legislative Branch Click image for video clip
Article I: Legislative Branch (9.3) Bicameral Senate (Upper House) 2 Senators for each State House of Reps (Lower House) Based on population Maxed out at 435 HOR serve for 2 year terms Senators serve for 6 year terms No term limits for either House Important Powers = Enumerated Powers Make Laws Set Taxes Declare War Override Vetoes Borrow Money Regulate International and National Trade Print Money
Purpose of Legislative Branch (9.3) Congress Headed by: House of Representatives Proposes and Passes Laws Senate 435 Total 10 in WA 100 Total 2 per state Represent the needs of a specific district of the state Represent the needs of the whole state
Office Holders in Congress (9.3) Total Number What is their Term? How are they selected? What the Requirements to run for the office? Representative 435 total (based on population) Each term is 2 years (there are no term limits) Elected by voters of the specific Congressional District 25 years + US Citizen for 7 years Lives in State where elected Senator 100 total (2 per state) Each term is 6 years (there are no term limits) Elected by voters of the state 30 years + US Citizen for 9 years
Powers of Congress (9.3)
Committees In Congress (9.3)
How a Bill Becomes a Law (9.3) I’m Just A Bill https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=66f4-NKEYz4