Overview of the United States Congress

These flashcards cover essential vocabulary and concepts related to the structure, demographics, functions, and processes of Congress.

Public Perception of Congress

How the public views and assesses the effectiveness and integrity of Congress.

Demographics of Congress

The statistical data regarding the characteristics of members of Congress, including age, gender, and ethnicity.

Majority Party

The political party that holds the most seats in either the House of Representatives or the Senate, allowing them to control legislative agenda.

Bicameralism

The principle of having a legislature that divides its members into two separate chambers.

Constituent Services

Efforts by members of Congress to assist their constituents with various issues or needs.

Enumerated Powers

The specific powers granted to Congress as outlined in the U.S. Constitution.

Impeachment

The process by which a legislative body levels charges against a government official.

Filibuster

A legislative tactic used to delay or prevent a vote on a bill by extending debate.

Reapportionment

The process of redistributing seats in the House of Representatives based on population changes.

Committees

Sub-groups within Congress formed to handle specific areas of legislation and oversight.

Checks and Balances

A system that ensures no one branch of government becomes too powerful by allowing each branch to monitor and limit the actions of the others.

Cloture

A procedure used in the Senate to end a filibuster, requiring a supermajority vote.

Majoritarianism

A political theory suggesting that the majority should have the right to make decisions affecting society.

Political Equality

The principle that all individuals have equal political rights and opportunities.

LGBTQ Representation in Congress

The increasing number of openly LGBTQ members serving in Congress over time.

Public Relations Strategies

Tactics used by members of Congress to maintain a positive relationship with constituents and the public.

Elastic Clause

Allows Congress to make laws necessary and proper for carrying out its powers.

Trustee Representation

A style of representation where members of Congress act in the best interests of their constituents, even if those interests are not currently popular.

Delegate Representation

A style of representation where members of Congress act strictly according to the wishes of their constituents.

Democratic Principles

Key concepts underlying representative democracy, including popular sovereignty and political equality.

Oversight

The review, monitoring, and supervision of government agencies, programs, activities, and policy implementation.