Structures, Powers, and Functions of Congress

These flashcards cover key terms related to the structures, powers, and functions of Congress, providing definitions to help students prepare for their exam.

Speaker of the House

The presiding officer of the House of Representatives, who has major power and influences policy-making.

Majority Leader

The first member identified in a debate who leads discussions and sets the legislative calendar.

Minority Leader

The leader of the minority party in Congress, responsible for leading discussions and serving as a spokesperson.

Whip

Party members responsible for maintaining discipline within their party and guiding votes.

Filibuster

A tactic used in the Senate to delay or block voting on a bill by speaking for a long period.

Cloture Rule

A procedure that allows a two-thirds vote to limit debate and end a filibuster.

Mandatory Spending

Spending that is required by law and cannot be changed without legislation.

Discretionary Spending

Spending that is not mandatory and is subject to annual review and approval.

Committee of the Whole

A procedure that allows the House to function as a single committee for more efficient discussion.

Conference Committee

A temporary committee formed to reconcile differences between the House and Senate versions of a bill.

President Pro Tempore

A temporary president of the Senate, usually the most senior member of the majority party.

Joint Committees

Committees that include members from both the House and the Senate, addressing issues of common interest.

Logrolling

The practice of trading votes among legislators to gain support for a bill.

Germane

Relevant and appropriate to the legislation being considered.

Pork-Barrel Spending

Funding allocated for specific projects, often to benefit a particular district or constituency.

Rider

An additional provision added to a bill that is not directly related to the legislation's main subject.