Key Concepts in U.S. Congress Structure and Function

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and concepts related to the structure, powers, and functions of the U.S. Congress as presented in the lecture notes.

Speaker of the House

Elected leader of the House of Representatives, differing from the Vice President who serves as the President of the Senate.

Gerrymandering

The manipulation of electoral district boundaries to favor one party, diluting the power of votes.

Taxing Power

The constitutional limit on Congress's ability to impose taxes, which must align with other constitutional provisions.

Subcommittee

A smaller body within a full committee that reviews and reports on a bill.

Rules Committee

The committee in the House that decides the rules for debate and what bills are brought to the floor.

Impeachment Power

Authority granted to the House of Representatives to bring charges against a federal official for misconduct.

Cloture Rule

A procedure used in the Senate to end a filibuster and bring a bill to a vote.

Commerce Clause

Part of the Constitution that allows Congress to regulate commerce among the states.

Wesberry v. Sanders

A Supreme Court case that established the principle of equal representation in congressional districts.

Necessary and Proper Clause

The constitutional provision that allows Congress to pass laws necessary to exercise its enumerated powers.

Oversight Function

The responsibility of congressional committees to monitor the executive branch and ensure laws are implemented properly.

Bill Process

The series of steps a legislative proposal follows to become a law, including committee review and debate.