Legislative Branch

Legislative Branch

The branch of the United States government responsible for making laws, outlined in Article I of the U.S. Constitution.

Congress

The combined body of the Senate and House of Representatives that makes federal laws.

Senate

One of the two chambers of Congress, consisting of 100 members with each state having two Senators.

House of Representatives

The lower chamber of Congress with 435 members, with the number from each state based on population.

Senators

Members of the Senate who serve six-year terms and must be at least 30 years old and a U.S. citizen for nine years.

Representing State Interests

The responsibility of Senators to advocate for the needs and views of their constituents.

Approving Treaties

The Senate's authority to ratify treaties made by the President, requiring a two-thirds majority vote.

Confirming Appointments

The process by which Senators confirm presidential appointments, including Supreme Court justices and cabinet members.

Impeachment Powers

The House's exclusive ability to impeach federal officials, initiating their removal process.

Power of the Purse

Congress's authority to create and allocate the federal budget, determining how taxpayer money is spent.

Declaring War

The exclusive power of Congress to declare war, ensuring the involvement of representatives of the people.

Checks and Balances

The system that ensures that no one branch of government (executive, legislative, or judicial) becomes too powerful.

Impeachment

The process by which Congress can remove officials from office for misconduct, wherein the House can impeach and the Senate conducts the trial.

Making Laws

The main responsibility of Congress, involving the creation and approval of bills.

Oversight and Investigation

The role of Congress to ensure laws are effectively implemented by holding hearings and investigations.