AFFIRMATIVE ACTION: Policies that are aimed at countering discrimination against underrepresented groups. One area where affirmative action can come into play is the college admission process at certain schools.

AGENDA: Things that need to be done. This term is often used to describe political platforms.

BALANCED BUDGET: A budget in which spending is equal to or less than the income.

BIPARTISAN: Any action involving two political parties, such as Democrats and Republicans.

CAUCUS: A meeting of people from one political party to plan action or nominate candidates to positions in the party. It can also mean a specific unified group joined t promote a specific conviction, or cause, such as the Congressional Black Caucus in the House of Representatives.

CHURCH AND STATE: The U.S. Constitution says that religion and government should be separated in our society. For example, some believe that prayer in public schools should be allowed, while others believe that it violates this separation.

CONFLICT OF INTEREST: A situation where someone in an official position is struggling between private and public interests.

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