Practice Test 1 - AP US Government and Politics
20 questions. Answer them in any order, then submit to see your score and every explanation.
- In a federalism dispute, the Court held that valid federal law overrides conflicting state law under the Constitution's supremacy principle. What doctrine applies?
- Federal and state governments both tax income to fund services. Which type of power is demonstrated by this arrangement?
- Congress cuts an agency's program funding and adds restrictive riders in the budget bill. Which accountability mechanism is shown?
- In a 2024 Senate race, the campaign buys streaming ads targeted to "new movers" using voter-file matches and geofencing around apartment complexes. The tactic relies on data vendors, A/B testing, and rapid creative changes based on click-through rates. Which modern campaign strategy is illustrated?
- A president issues an executive order to raise the minimum wage for federal contractors, a policy that has failed to pass in Congress. Critics of this action would most likely argue that it violates which constitutional principle?
- During a budget standoff, Congress refuses funding, the President vetoes the bill, and courts review executive orders. Which foundational principle is illustrated?
- A Senate committee holds hearings grilling an agency head about mismanagement and demands internal documents. Which oversight is this?
- Which feature best illustrates checks and balances rather than separation of powers?
- Following 1968, many white working-class voters moved toward Republicans over cultural issues; what change pattern is this?
- A party asked the Supreme Court to take its appeal; the Court agreed by granting review through its discretionary docket. What procedure is this?
- In a "critical election," turnout spikes and party identification shifts sharply, then remains stable for decades. What is occurring?
- A person becomes more likely to vote after marrying and buying a home. Which influence pattern is illustrated?
- Congress offers highway funds only if states adopt specific seat-belt enforcement policies; most states comply to avoid losing money. What federalism tool is this?
- After a 55% referendum bans a minority religion's worship, a federal court voids it under the First Amendment. What mechanism is illustrated?
- A state denies welfare benefits to new residents for one year. Plaintiffs claim unequal treatment. What scrutiny is most likely?
- Candidates buy targeted online ads shown only to users flagged as persuadable. Which media characteristic is highlighted?
- A court strikes down a law that censors newspapers critical of officials. Which democratic value is upheld?
- A law is struck down after courts find it violates the First Amendment. Which concept is demonstrated?
- A federal judge is impeached by the House and convicted by the Senate for bribery. What check does this demonstrate?
- Police search a home without a warrant or exception; the judge excludes the evidence under Mapp v. Ohio. What principle is shown?