How Congress Works

These flashcards cover key concepts and ideas from the lecture notes on how Congress operates, including its structure, responsibilities, legislative processes, and the challenges faced by its members.

What percentage of Americans can name the Speaker of the House according to surveys?

Only 6 percent can name the Speaker of the House.

What are the two basic responsibilities of a member of Congress?

Passing legislation and representing their constituents.

What significant changes have occurred in the workload of Congress since 1965?

The number of constituents each House member represents has increased by 40 percent, and the volume of communication has surged significantly.

What major reform regarding the budget process occurred after 1970?

Congress began to pass tax and spending measures with a closer eye on their overall impact on the government's bottom line.

What has caused the legislative process to become more complicated in recent years?

Changes introduced by Congress that circumvent regular order and the addition of procedural layers due to reforms.

How has Congress increased openness in its proceedings since 1965?

It now requires roll-call votes on amendments and most committee proceedings are televised.

What is one major consequence of the decline in civility in Congress?

It makes it difficult for members to come together to pass legislation for the good of the country.

Which communities are better represented in Congress today compared to past decades?

There are more women, Blacks, Hispanics, and Asian Americans.

What technology has changed how members of Congress communicate with constituents in recent years?

The use of the Internet, including websites and e-mail.

What phrase did the framers of the Constitution use to describe the relationship between Congress's legislative and representative functions?

To "refine and enlarge the public view."

What are the key roles of a member of Congress according to the notes?

National legislator, local representative, constituent advocate, committee member, and several others.

What does it mean for a member of Congress to be a consensus builder?

They are skilled at bringing people together and finding mutually agreeable solutions.

What challenges do members face when trying to represent their constituents?

Constituent opinions often conflict, and agreement on issues among the public is rare.

What is the most challenging aspect of voting for members of Congress?

The responsibility of casting votes on significant legislation.

How has public perception affected the image of Congress members?

There is a general distrust of politicians that marks this era in our history.

What does crafting a bill require according to the lecture?

Consulting with colleagues, experts, and interest groups to refine the idea.

How is power in Congress distributed?

Power shifts over time, varies by issue, and is not equally shared among all members.

What is one of the most significant changes in the Senate since its inception?

The Seventeenth Amendment allowed for the direct election of senators by the people.

Why is the process of voting considered complex for members of Congress?

Members must consider constituent opinions, expert recommendations, and personal convictions.

What motivates most members of Congress to run for reelection?

The belief that they can make a difference in the lives of ordinary Americans.

What does the lecture suggest is essential to producing law in the U.S. Congress?

The art of compromise and reaching a consensus among diverse views.