Which best describes the most important factor in legislation?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Public policy encompasses the choices made regarding goals, priorities, and how resources are allocated. Policy choices reflect the values, beliefs, and attitudes of those designing the policy. The influence of the president, preferences of Americans, and amount of financing related to the legislation are not as important as the beliefs, attitudes, and values of the policy.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The federal government is a government of limited powers, which means that, for a federal action to be legitimate, it must be authorized. Only those actions that are within the scope of the Constitution, the supreme law of the land, are authorized. Power of the states and citizens is limited under the overall umbrella of the federal government. Funding is also controlled through the powers of the federal government.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Any powers not delegated to the federal government are reserved for the states. Thus, individual citizens, the federal government, and local governments are excluded.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Private policy is largely influenced by theories of economics and business management, including consumerism and market trends. Such policies can react quickly and are often proactive. In comparison, public policies are slow and reactive, and economics is just one of many factors involved. Public policies are determined by voting shifts, electoral realignment, and term limits.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: It is far easier to defeat a bill than get one passed; therefore, the opposition always has the advantage.