Civic Glossary

Government, in plain language

What the words mean — and what each elected role actually does for you.

01 · Common terms

Ordinance: A law passed by a city or county government, covering local matters like zoning, noise, or parking.
Referendum: A question placed before voters to approve or reject a law or policy directly.
Ballot measure: A proposal that appears on an election ballot for the public to vote yes or no on.
District: The specific geographic area an official is elected to represent.
Constituency: All the people an official represents — everyone living in their district or jurisdiction.
Session: The period when a legislature meets to debate and pass laws.
Quorum: The minimum number of members who must be present for a body to hold an official vote.
Appropriation: Public money officially set aside by a government to fund a service or program.

02 · Elected roles & responsibilities

U.S. President

Elected nationwide, 4-year terms

Leads the executive branch: enforces federal law, commands the military, directs foreign policy, and appoints top officials.

U.S. Senator

Two per state, 6-year terms

Writes and votes on national laws, ratifies treaties, and confirms federal judges and appointees.

U.S. Representative

Elected from districts, 2-year terms

Writes and votes on national laws; all federal spending bills start in the House.

Governor

Elected statewide, 4-year terms

Leads the state executive: signs or vetoes state laws, proposes the budget, and oversees state agencies.

State legislator

Elected from districts

Writes state laws covering schools, highways, taxes, and how elections are run.

Mayor

Elected citywide

Leads city government: budgets, police, trash, parks, and everyday city services.

City council member

Elected by district or at large

Passes city ordinances, sets the city budget, and approves land use.

School board member

Elected, usually nonpartisan

Sets school district policy and budgets, and hires the superintendent.

County official

Elected or appointed, varies by county

Runs county services such as courts support, sheriffs, health departments, and public records.