Congress (cont.)

Descriptive Representation

The idea that a legislature's demographics should ideally match the demographics of the population it represents.

Legitimacy

The perception that the political system is valid and justified, often influenced by the presence of diverse representatives.

White-Collar Government

Governments dominated by lawmakers from higher socioeconomic classes, resulting in insufficient resources directed toward the needs of ordinary citizens.

Instructed Delegate Model

A model of representation where legislators are expected to act solely according to the views of their constituents, without using their own judgment.

Trustee Model

A model of representation where legislators act according to their informed opinion, even if it goes against their constituents' views.

Mal-apportioned Legislature

A legislature where the representation does not reflect the population distribution, leading to unequal influence by different states.

Impeachment Process

A political process wherein a simple majority in the House can impeach a president, but a two-thirds Senate vote is required for removal.

Bicameral Legislature

A legislature that consists of two separate chambers, such as the Georgia General Assembly which includes the House of Representatives and the Senate.

Committee System

The method by which legislative committees and subcommittees decide which bills will be considered, often resulting in many bills not reaching a vote.

Political Agenda

The set of issues that the government focuses on, influenced by events, party leaders, and interest groups.

Filibuster

A tactic used in the Senate to prolong debate and delay or prevent a vote on a bill, often requiring 60 votes to invoke cloture.

Senior Member Influence

The increased authority and clout of senior members within legislative committees, often based on seniority and expertise.

Legislative Oversight

The process of reviewing and evaluating the operations of federal agencies to ensure policies are implemented as intended by Congress.

Senatorial Courtesy

An informal practice in the Senate whereby a senator's home state preferences are respected in the legislative process.

Majoritarian Preferences

The collective desires of the majority, often impacted by rules that can facilitate or hinder the passage of legislation.

Budget Reconciliation Act of 1974

Legislation that allows certain types of bills related to taxation and spending to bypass the filibuster, enabling expedited legislative processing.