Power
Definition
Power refers to having authority or control over something or someone. In politics, it often relates to having influence or decision-making ability in governing matters.
Analogy
Think of power as being similar to owning a video game console. When you have power over your console, you can decide which games to play, when to play them, and even change settings according to your preferences.
Related terms
Executive Power: The power held by the executive branch of government, led by the President, to enforce laws and make important decisions.
Legislative Power: The power held by Congress to create laws and policies.
Separation of Powers: The division of powers among the three branches of government (Legislative, Executive, Judicial) to prevent concentration of power in one branch.
"Power" appears in:
Subjects (16)
Practice Questions (13)
What democratic ideal allows states to have power separate from federal authority?
Which body has the power to declare war?
What is a likely consequence if states are given more power to interpret federal laws?
Which chamber has the power to try impeachments?
Which function of Congress has been consistently used to balance the power of executive agreements?
Based on the US constitution, what power does the President have that is not shared with Congress?
Which power does the President not share with Congress?
What is one method Presidents have used to expand their power beyond what is explicitly stated in the Constitution?
What is one way state governments can check the power of federal courts?
What power does the Judicial Branch have over Congress?
What power does Congress have over Supreme Court Justices?
What mechanism can Congress use to check the power of federal bureaucracy?
What Act expanded the power of the Food and Drug Administration in the 20th century?
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