US Congress Key Terms

Congressional caucuses

These are groups of legislators who share special interests and meet to pursue common legislative objectives, e.g. black caucus, women’s caucus, Hispanic caucus

Divided government

When the House of Representatives, Senate and presidency are not all controlled by one party.

Filibuster

When a senator gives a prolonged speech on the floor of the Senate in order to obstruct legislative progress of a bill or confirmation of appointments to the Executive or judiciary.

Gridlock

A situation in US politics where the president and Congress are equally powerful, constantly preventing each other from acting, resulting in difficulty passing legislation.

Incumbency

The current holder of a political office re House or Senate seat or presidency.

Mid-term elections

Congressional elections held mid-way through a President’s four-year term.

Oversight

The ability of one branch of government to supervise the work of another.

Partisanship

A situation in which Congressmen/women are incredibly loyal to their party, even when it means that the result is gridlock.

Unanimous consent

A senator or Congressman/woman may request unanimous consent on the floor to set aside a specified rule of procedure so as to expedite proceedings.