4. How would you describe the relationship between the Texas House and the Texas Senate in recent years? Why would you describe it this way and give some examples of evidence that support your classification. 5. What changes to the office have increased the lieutenant governor's influence in lawmaking and administration? Explain the influence of the lieutenant governor and give examples of them exercising their influence. 6. The Texas legislature consists of many different committees. These committees can be organized into groups of different types of committees. Identify the types of committees in the Texas Legislature and explain their role in the legislative process. 7. What is it called when governors draw attention to issues and causes that matter to them to get widespread media coverage? Explain the purpose of this process (its significance) and be sure to include examples of governors doing this in the past or present. 8. The framers of the current Texas constitution devoted considerable time and space to minute details of public policy. Explain why they might have done this, provide examples, and discuss the lasting effects of this decision. 9. Explain what it means to have a "professional legislature." Do you believe Texas has a "professional legislature" according to your definition of the term? 10. How did the federal Voting Rights Act of 1965 affect the balance between the two major political parties in Texas? Explain the significance of the Voting Rights Act and provide examples of how this has affected state politics in Texas.