Congresss

Definition

The bicremaml national legislature established under Article I, consisting of two chambers (the house of representives) and the Senate- the House of Representatives is the lower house responsible for translating public sentiment into policies or federal law, as well as possessing the power of the purse, where as the senate helps confirm judicial and executive appioments and rarities treaties

Explanation

Intended by the framers to be the central and most powerful branch, holds all legislative powers including taxation, revenue, spending, and declaring war. The House seats are allocated through proportional representation, and the Senate seats are allocated through equal representation. Congress also has the ability to override presidential vetoes with a 2/3rds majority in both chambers.

What are congresses three main abilities

1. Power of the purse

2. Ability to declare war

3. Ability to override presidential vetos with 2/3 majority in both chambers

Significance

often termed the “broken branch” due to low public approval ratings, and constant campaigning, yet remains the center of constitutional policymaking. While designed to mediate government function, the branch struggles to solve major issues and is now highly partisan.

Example

Passing major federal legislation, such as the annual federal budget or sweeping infrastructure bills