1. Government and the People
Chapter 8, Lesson #2

2. The Legislative Branch (Congress)
Article 1:
Makes laws
Two branches: House of Representatives – 435 members
Based on state population
Two year terms
Senate – 100 members
2 members (votes) per state
6 year terms
6 Non-voting members
No term limits like president

3. The Executive Branch Article 2: Carries out laws passed by Congress
Led by President
Commander in Chief of military
Cabinet Members
Heads of 15 executive departments
Secretary of Defense
Secretary of the Treasury
Secretary of Education
Secretary of State

4. The Judicial Branch Article 3: Establishes the Supreme Court
Interprets (explains) laws
Judicial Review: make sure the other branches follow the rules of the Constitution.
9 members of the Supreme Court
Nominated by the President
Approved by the Senate
In office until they die or retire
Congress establishes lower federal courts

5. Your Rights! Due Process: 5th amendment
no one shall “be deprived of life, liberty, or property, without due process of law.”
Right to trial
Gov’t can’t take away your freedom without following the rule of law.
Equal Protection:
14th amendment
law must treat all people in the same way—no matter what race, religion, or political group they belong to.

7. Responsibilities of a Citizen
Duty: (Have to do)
Pay taxes
Follow laws
Sit on a Jury when called (Jury duty)
Responsibility: (Should do)
Vote
Take part in gov’t
Respect the right’s of others