Congress

Definition

Congress is the legislative branch of the United States federal government, primarily responsible for making laws. It consists of two houses: the House of Representatives and the Senate, each playing a distinct role in the legislative process. The actions of Congress directly affect the governance and administration of national policies, reflecting the democratic principles of representation and accountability.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Congress is made up of 535 members: 100 senators and 435 representatives.
2. The House of Representatives is based on population, meaning states with larger populations have more representatives, while each state has two senators regardless of population.
3. Members of the House serve two-year terms, while senators serve six-year terms, allowing for different electoral cycles and stability in governance.
4. Congress has several key powers outlined in the Constitution, including the ability to tax, regulate commerce, declare war, and confirm presidential appointments.
5. The process for a bill to become law involves several steps, including introduction, committee review, debate on the floor, and approval by both houses before being sent to the president.

Review Questions

• How does the structure of Congress impact its effectiveness in passing legislation?
  • The bicameral structure of Congress allows for a system of checks and balances within the legislative process. Each house has its own rules and procedures that can influence how quickly or efficiently legislation is passed. For example, bills must be approved by both the House and the Senate before becoming law, which can lead to negotiation and compromise but may also result in gridlock if there is significant disagreement between the two chambers.
• What role do committees play in the legislative process within Congress?
  • Committees are essential to the legislative process in Congress as they allow for detailed examination and discussion of proposed legislation. They conduct hearings, gather information from experts, and make recommendations to either advance or reject bills. This specialization helps streamline the legislative process by allowing smaller groups to focus on specific issues, thus enhancing overall efficiency and informed decision-making.
• Evaluate how the representation within Congress reflects the diversity of the American population and what implications this has for policymaking.
  • The representation in Congress is intended to reflect America's diverse population; however, disparities still exist regarding race, gender, and socioeconomic status among members. This diversity—or lack thereof—can significantly impact policymaking as it influences which issues are prioritized and how laws address various community needs. A more diverse Congress may better advocate for underrepresented groups' interests, leading to a broader range of policies that address inequities within society. Conversely, a lack of representation can perpetuate existing disparities and limit the scope of legislation to reflect only dominant perspectives.

Related terms

Bicameral Legislature: A legislative body that has two chambers or houses, such as the House of Representatives and the Senate in Congress.

Legislation: The process of making or enacting laws, which involves various stages including proposal, debate, amendment, and voting.

Constituent: A person represented by an elected official, particularly a member of Congress, who serves to voice the interests and concerns of their constituents.