Congress

Test Friday

Review the major function and leadership of each branch of the U.S. government

1. Legislative-make laws, congress 2. Executive- enforce the law, U.S. President 3. Judicial- Interprets laws, Supreme law

Explain why the U.S is a representative democracy

People elect their leaders to make decisions for them.

Identify the 5 main roles and duties that members of Congress play

1. Legislature- make/propose laws 2. Representative of Constituents- vote for people "back home" 3. Committee members- screen bills, oversights 4. Servants- assist with problems, answer letters, tours, etc. 5. Politicians- respect wishes for their political power

How do members of Congress represent their Constituents

1. Delegates- agent of the people, suppress own views and party views 2. Trustees- call issues as they see them and not for constituents or party 3. Partisans (party)- owe allegiances to their political party 4. Pulctias- Combine all 3

Define Congress oversight function

Process by which Congress through its committees, checks that the executive branch is enforcing laws properly

Most members of Congress have had considerable political experience and often are elected to numerous Congressional terms (True/False)

True

Congress is NOT an accurate cross section of the nation's population (True/False)

True

Name the 2 Houses of Congress. How is membership based in each?

1. House of Representatives- population 2. Senate- equal representation

How long do terms of Congress last? What numbered Congress is currently in session?

Terms last 2 years. We are currently in the 119th session (2025-2027)

Because of the 20th amendment, when does each session of Congress begin?

January 3rd at noon each year (or different day chosen by Congress)

How many sessions does Congress have in each term?

2-1 each year

Give another name for adjournment of Congress. What has to happen for either House to adjourn?

Sine Die, Both houses must approve it

Special sessions are rarely called by the President anymore because Congress usually remains in session all year (True/False)

True

How much are members of Congress usually paid?

$174,000

How does the 27th amendment affect Congressional pay raises?

If Congress increases salary, it can not take affect until next term

What are some additional benefits members of Congress recieve?

Tax deduction for 2 homes, free medical care, best health and life insurance, allowance for office supplies, free mailing and parking(franking), free gym membership, free dining in certain places, free speech and debate, Library of Congress access

How are members of Congress reluctant to give themselves pay raises?

1. President may veto 2. Fear of voter backlash- they risk losing the re-election