AP US Gov

Bicameralism

A system of government in which the legislature comprises two houses or chambers.

Speaker of the House

The only official congressional leader mentioned in the Constitution, the Speaker is the de facto leader of the majority party in the House.

House Rules Committee

A powerful committee in the House responsible for determining the rules for debate and whether a bill will reach the floor.

Filibuster

A Senate procedure used to delay or block a vote on a bill by extending debate.

Committee of the Whole

A unique House process that allows for longer debate and voting as a group rather than by individual members.

Standing Committee

Permanent committees in Congress that focus on specific policy areas and conduct hearings and debates on legislation.

Pork-Barrel Spending

Funds earmarked for specific projects within a legislator's district, often seen as a way to bring federal money home.

Cloture Rule

A rule in the Senate that allows for the end of debate on a bill with a three-fifths vote to overcome a filibuster.

Majority Leader

The elected leader of the party holding the most seats in the Senate or House, responsible for setting the legislative agenda.

Logrolling

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

Vice President

The nonvoting President of the Senate who primarily acts as a tie-breaker in a 50-50 vote.

Discretionary Spending

Government spending implemented through an appropriations bill, which is not mandated by law.

Mandatory Spending

Spending that is required by law, including programs like Social Security and Medicare.

Omnibus Bill

A proposed law that covers multiple areas of law and includes multiple programs or projects.

CBO (Congressional Budget Office)

A nonpartisan agency that analyzes the budget proposal and serves as a check on the president’s Office of Management and Budget.

Whip

A party member responsible for ensuring party discipline and mobilizing votes.

Committee Chairperson

The leader of a committee, typically the most senior member from the majority party.

Ranking Member

The most senior member of the minority party on a committee, responsible for representing that party's views.

Subcommittee

A smaller, specialized group within a larger committee that focuses on specific policy issues.

Executive Oversight

The role of Congress in monitoring how executive agencies implement laws and programs.

Joint Committee

A committee that includes members from both the House and Senate, often formed to address specific issues.

Select Committee

A temporary committee established for a specific purpose, often to investigate a particular issue.

Conference Committee

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