AP Comparative Government and Politics Flashcards: Executive Systems
Written by AP Content Team, Verified for 2026 AP Exams, Last updated: May 2026
Review key ideas with interactive flashcards. This set includes 10 cards to help you master important concepts.
Describe the process for changes in top leadership in China.
Changes in China's top leadership are not accomplished through public elections but are instead decided behind closed doors by the Chinese Communist Party.
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Describe the process for changes in top leadership in China.
Changes in China's top leadership are not accomplished through public elections but are instead decided behind closed doors by the Chinese Communist Party.
How is the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom selected?
The monarch formally appoints the leader of the party or coalition holding the largest number of seats in the House of Commons as prime minister.
How is executive power divided in Russia's political system?
The elected president acts as head of state and commander in chief, while the prime minister, appointed by the president, serves as head of government overseeing the civil service.
How does the role of head of state differ from head of government in the United Kingdom?
In the UK, the monarch serves ceremonially as head of state, while the prime minister acts as the head of government, serving as chief executive and setting the policy agenda.
What are the three key leadership roles held by China's president?
China's president serves as commander in chief, chair of China's Military Commission, and General Secretary of the Chinese Communist party.
Who serves as the head of government in China and what is their primary role?
The premier serves as head of government in China and is responsible for overseeing the civil service.
Which two course countries feature an elected president who serves as both head of state and head of government?
Mexico and Nigeria both have an elected president who serves as both head of state and head of government.
Contrast the powers of the Supreme Leader and the President in Iran.
Iran's Supreme Leader sets the political agenda and serves as commander in chief, while the elected president oversees the civil service and conducts foreign policy.
What is the primary function of executive institutions in a government?
Executive institutions, including chief executives and cabinets, formulate, implement, and enforce policy through different methods and agencies.
In which of the course countries is the president restricted to a single term?
Mexico's elected president is restricted to one term as both head of state and head of government.