Dictionary

fascism: A once widespread faction of governing through such practices as military and authoritarian control.

fascist: One who believes the state and its control is greater than the masses.

Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI): Part of the U.S. Department of Justice, that oversees crimes at the federal level.

Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC): An agency independent from the Federal Government that acts as an insurer to the nation's financial institutions.

Federal Election Commission (FEC): Has oversight of legislation covering campaign finances.

federalist: One who believes in and promotes state individualism as opposed to nationalistic controls.

finance reform: The effort by law to set limits on spending and contributions by political candidates; also known as campaign finance reform.

free enterprise: Also known as "free market," and is a non-regulated, non-subsidized form of enterprise governed primarily by supply and demand.

free rider: One who makes no contribution to a system, but derives the benefits.

free speech: The right of expression in any manner without reprimand or censorship.

front-loading: The attempt to influence a party's nominated candidate by holding early primaries and caucuses.

fund raising: Any solicitation for a specific group, cause or individual.

gender gap: The discrepancies in behaviors and patterns between men and women.

Grand Old Party (GOP): A long-time reference to the Republican Party, which was founded in 1854.

Gross Domestic Product (GNP): A form of economical measurement that is calculated by valuating all services and goods in a specified time period.

habeas corpus: A due process that protects individuals in criminal actions that becomes a judicial determination of release or incarceration.

hard money: Regulated funds that can be used for direct support of specific candidates in federal elections.

homophobia: An excessive dread of and opposition to homosexuals, or gays, sometimes displayed by open hostilities.

House of Representatives: Representing each state in the United States Congress, elected members are governed by the Speaker.

indoctrination: The foundation of teachings that is fundamental to a higher level of understanding and participation.

inflation: A price rise on any product or service that is triggered by economical variances within specific time periods.

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS): The government agency that is in charge of tax assessment and collection.

isolationism: The practice of creating a capsular nation in which military actions are avoided unless there is specific detrimental action shown that would have a personal impact along with the absence of free trade options.

jingoism: A euphemism that evolved into meaning overt references of military action to international powers that are seen as a threat to a nation.

joint committee: Temporary or standing Congressional committees in which members of the Senate and House of Representatives participate.