The US political system is one of the world’s most influential and complex governance models. Understanding how the US government functions, including the roles of the President, Congress, and the Supreme Court, is essential for anyone interested in American politics. This article presents 20 key MCQs about the US political system, covering topics such as the Constitution, federal structure, elections, and legislative processes. Whether you preparing for a test, enhancing your general knowledge, or exploring the fundamentals of American democracy, these multiple-choice questions will help you grasp the core concepts of US politics in 2025. Find below the 20 key MCQs about the US political system.
MCQs about the US Political System
1. What are the three branches of the US government?
A. Executive, Legislative, Judicial
B. Federal, State, Local
C. Congress, Supreme Court, President
D. House of Representatives, Senate, Supreme Court
Details: The US government is divided into three branches to ensure a separation of powers. The Executive branch is led by the President, the Legislative branch consists of Congress (Senate and House of Representatives), and the Judicial branch is headed by the Supreme Court.
2. Who is next in line to become President if both the President and Vice President are unable to serve?
A. Secretary of State
B. Speaker of the House
C. Senate Majority Leader
D. Chief Justice of the Supreme Court
Details: According to the US Presidential Succession Act, if both the President and Vice President are unable to serve, the Speaker of the House assumes the presidency.
3. How many voting members are in the US House of Representatives?
A. 435
B. 100
C. 538
D. 50
Details: The US House of Representatives has 435 voting members, with each state’s representation based on population.
4. What is the term length for a US Senator?
A. 2 years
B. 4 years
C. 6 years
D. 8 years
Details: US Senators serve six-year terms, with elections staggered so that approximately one-third of the Senate is up for election every two years.
5. How many justices serve on the US Supreme Court?
A. 7
B. 9
C. 11
D. 13
Details: The US Supreme Court has nine justices, including one Chief Justice and eight Associate Justices.
6. What is the highest law of the United States?
A. The Declaration of Independence
B. The Bill of Rights
C. The Constitution
D. The Federalist Papers
Details: The US Constitution is the supreme law of the country, establishing the framework of government and citizens’ rights.
7. How many amendments are there in the US Constitution as of 2025?
A. 27
B. 26
C. 30
D. 25
Details: The US Constitution currently has 27 amendments, the latest being the 27th Amendment, which limits congressional pay raises.
8. What is the primary responsibility of the Electoral College?
A. Electing the President and Vice President
B. Drafting new legislation
C. Approving Supreme Court justices
D. Regulating federal elections
Details: The Electoral College is responsible for formally electing the President and Vice President based on state-by-state election results.
9. What is the minimum age requirement to become President of the United States?
A. 30
B. 35
C. 40
D. 25
Details: According to the US Constitution, a person must be at least 35 years old to serve as President.
10. Which branch of government has the power to declare war?
A. The President
B. The Supreme Court
C. Congress
D. The State Governors
Details: While the President is the Commander-in-Chief of the military, only Congress has the constitutional power to declare war.
11. Who was the first President of the United States?
A. John Adams
B. Thomas Jefferson
C. George Washington
D. James Madison
Details: George Washington served as the first President of the United States from 1789 to 1797.
12. What is the main function of the Supreme Court?
A. Enforcing laws
B. Making laws
C. Interpreting laws
D. Conducting elections
Details: The Supreme Court interprets the Constitution and ensures laws comply with it.
13. How often are US presidential elections held?
A. Every 2 years
B. Every 4 years
C. Every 6 years
D. Every 8 years
Details: US presidential elections take place every four years, with the next election scheduled for 2028.
14. What document officially declared the US independent from Britain?
A. The Constitution
B. The Bill of Rights
C. The Federalist Papers
D. The Declaration of Independence
Details: The Declaration of Independence, signed on July 4, 1776, declared the United States independent from British rule.
15. What does the First Amendment protect?
A. The right to bear arms
B. Freedom of speech, religion, and the press
C. The right to a speedy trial
D. The right to vote
Details: The First Amendment protects freedoms related to speech, religion, assembly, and the press.
16. How many terms can a US President serve?
A. One
B. Two
C. Three
D. Unlimited
Details: The 22nd Amendment limits a President to two terms in office.
17. What is the role of the Vice President in the Senate?
A. Leading all debates
B. Voting on all bills
C. Breaking tie votes
D. Appointing Senators
Details: The Vice President serves as the President of the Senate and votes only to break ties.
18. Which political party is typically associated with conservative policies?
A. Democratic Party
B. Republican Party
C. Green Party
D. Libertarian Party
Details: The Republican Party is generally associated with conservative policies in the US.
19. What is the role of the Attorney General?
A. Head of the Supreme Court
B. Chief law enforcement officer
C. Leader of the Senate
D. Secretary of Defense
Details: The Attorney General is the head of the US Department of Justice.
20. What is the capital of the United States?
A. New York
B. Washington, D.C.
C. Los Angeles
D. Chicago
Details: Washington, D.C. is the capital of the United States and the seat of the federal government.
So these are key MCQs regarding the US political system. If you have any questions or suggestions please write below in the comment section. Thanks!
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