U.S. Congress: Structure, Powers, and Legislative Process

What is the role of Congress in checks and balances with the executive branch?

Congress passes bills; the president signs or vetoes them

What is the role of party leadership in Congress?

To ensure institutional coherence, set chamber agendas, build coalitions, and liaise with the other chamber and the President.

What is casework in the context of Congress?

Assistance provided by members of Congress to solve constituent problems with government agencies and programs.

What can Congress do to investigate issues?

Congress can oversee and investigate the bureaucracy, subpoena information, and bring criminal charges for contempt.

What percentage of people approved of Congress's handling of its job in October 2024?

16% approved

What is the disapproval rate for Congress in September 2024?

82% disapprove

What article of the U.S. Constitution establishes the legislative powers?

Article I

How long does a term of Congress last?

Two years

When does a term of Congress begin?

In an odd-numbered year

What significant event occurs on January 6, 2025, in Congress?

Joint session to count electoral votes and certify the 2024 presidential election

What is the term for the efforts by elected officials to represent their constituents?

Representation

What is the main responsibility of Congress?

Lawmaking

What is partisanship?

Loyalty to a party that shapes members' perspectives and solutions

What is the size of the House of Representatives?

435 members plus 6 delegates

What landmark case required equal protection in congressional district apportionment?

Wesberry v. Sanders (1964)

What is the term length for a Senator?

Six years

What amendment established the direct election of Senators?

17th Amendment (1913)

What are the minimum age and citizenship requirements for a House member?

Minimum age: 25; Citizenship: 7 years

What are the minimum age and citizenship requirements for a Senator?

Minimum age: 30; Citizenship: 9 years

What is the power of the purse?

The ability to tax and spend money, initiated by the House of Representatives

What does the Necessary and Proper Clause allow Congress to do?

Make laws necessary for executing its powers

What are bills of attainder?

Legislative acts declaring an individual guilty without a trial

What are ex post facto laws?

Laws that make an act a crime after it has been committed

What is reapportionment?

Reallocation of House seats after each census

What is redistricting?

Redrawing congressional district lines to ensure equal population

What Supreme Court case ruled that states must follow formal requirements for redistricting?

Baker v. Carr (1962)

What is gerrymandering?

Drawing district lines to protect or change political power

What are some key factors in redistricting?

Contiguity, compactness, community of interest, political boundaries

What are the age and citizenship requirements to run for the House of Representatives?

25 years old, U.S. citizen for at least 7 years, and a resident of the state he/she represents.

What are the age and citizenship requirements to run for the Senate?

30 years old, U.S. citizen for at least 9 years, and a resident of the state he/she represents.

What demographic characteristics are common among members of Congress?

They are often white, upper middle class, and typically have professions as lawyers, business people, or doctors.

How many women currently serve in Congress?

129 women, including 4 delegates in the House of Representatives and 26 in the Senate.

What is the definition of an incumbent?

An incumbent is the person currently holding an elective position.

What advantages do incumbents have in elections?

Incumbents have political recognition, easier fundraising, and can secure benefits for their districts.

What is the success rate for incumbents seeking reelection?

90%+ success rate for those seeking reelection.

What are the four types of representation members of Congress provide?

Policy representation, allocative representation, casework, and symbolic representation.

What is the difference between descriptive and substantive representation?

Descriptive representation refers to shared traits, while substantive representation refers to shared views.

What factors influence how members of Congress vote?

Political parties, the President, constituents, interest groups, and personal values.

What is hyperpartisanship?

A situation where members prioritize party loyalty over constituents' needs or national interest.

What is the presiding officer of the House of Representatives called?

The Speaker of the House.

What is the primary role of Congress?

To enact legislation.

What is the process for a bill to become law?

Bill introduction, committee action, hearings, mark-up session, report bill, floor action, presidential action.

What happens during the committee action phase of a bill?

Committees conduct hearings, rewrite the bill, and approve it for further consideration.

What is a pocket veto?

A situation where the President does not sign a bill and Congress is not in session, resulting in the bill not becoming law.

What is allocative representation?

Congressional work to secure projects, services, and funds for the districts.

What is the role of the majority leader in the Senate?

The dominant figure in the Senate who guides the party's legislative agenda.

What is the significance of committees in Congress?

Committees are responsible for reviewing and refining legislation before it is presented to the full chamber.

What is the role of the minority leader in the House?

The leader of the loyal opposition who represents the minority party's interests.

How does the President influence legislation?

The President can sign bills into law, allow them to become law without a signature, or veto them.

What is the importance of fundraising for members of Congress?

Fundraising is crucial for re-election efforts and maintaining party support.

What is symbolic representation?

Efforts by members of Congress to embody American ideals or connect with common constituency values.

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