US Gov and Politics

one of the Cabinet departments, established in 1903. The Commerce Department is the center of the federal government's programs to promote the well-being of the economy and encourage business. Its mission is to encourage technological advances, help promote economic growth and encourage international trade.

one of the two major political parties in the United States. Different members of the Democratic Party hold different political views, and the party platform may change from administration to administration. Nevertheless, the Democratic Party has generally draws support from working class people, women and minorities; and has traditionally supported expanding the level of government participation in the society and economy.

set of laws which deal with actions which are considered dangerous to the public welfare or morals, or to the interests of the state. Laws which are not criminal laws are civil laws.

a public wrong. There are two kinds of crimes: felonies and misdemeanors. A felony is the most serious type of crime (e.g., murder), which is punishable by a large fine, imprisonment, or death. A misdemeanor is a relatively less serious crime (e.g., speeding), which is punishable by a small fine or a short jail term.

established by the Employment Act of 1946. It analyzes the national economy in order to advise the President on economic policy. The Council consists of three members, appointed by the President and approved by the Senate, one of whom the President designates as Chairperson.