(115) CONGRESS: The Senate and the House of Representatives [AP Gov Review, Unit 2 Topic 1 (2.1)]

Bicameral legislature

A legislature composed of two houses.

Senate

One of the two houses of Congress, where each state is represented equally with two senators.

House of Representatives

The house of Congress in which representation is based on the population of each state.

Enumerated powers

Specific powers granted to Congress as listed in Article 1, Section 8 of the Constitution.

Implied powers

Powers not explicitly stated in the Constitution but necessary to implement the enumerated powers, derived from the Necessary and Proper Clause.

Necessary and Proper Clause

Clause at the end of Article 1, Section 8, that allows Congress to make laws deemed necessary and proper for executing its powers.

Power of the purse

The power of Congress to raise and spend money, particularly through the federal budget.

Coalition

An alliance of legislators who work together for a common goal.

Census

A count and survey of the population that determines representation in the House of Representatives.

Federal budget

The plan for government revenue and spending.