Unit 2.1 Congress: The Senate & The House of Representatives

Advise and Consent

the power of the senate to approve or disapprove of any of the president's appointments or treaties

Bicameral

A legislature consisting of two parts, or houses

Caucuses

A closed meeting of a political or legislative group to choose candidates for office or to decide issues of policy

coalitions

Individuals and/or groups that have common interests and perspectives

Enumerated/Expressed/Delegated Powers

Clear powers granted directly to the national government by Article 1 section 8 of the Constitution such as tax, coin money, declare war, regulate interstate commerce, raise a military among others.

Necessary and Proper Clause (Elastic Clause)

Allows Congress to "make all laws" that appear "necessary and proper" to implement its expressed powers. Has allowed congress to expand it's powers.

House of Representatives

the lower house of Congress, consisting of a different number of representatives from each state, depending on population

Power of the Purse

Constitutional power given to Congress to raise and spend money

Senate

the upper house of Congress, consisting of two representatives from each state

17th Amendment

Established the direct election of senators (instead of being chosen by state legislatures)

War Powers Act of 1973

President can send troops immediately, but must report to Congress and power is limited to 60 days.