The Legislative Branch: Key Concepts in Congress

A set of flashcards covering important vocabulary and concepts related to the structure, functions, and processes within the legislative branch of the U.S. government.

Bicameral Legislature

A legislative structure consisting of two chambers or houses.

House of Representatives

The lower chamber of Congress, with representation based on population, with 435 total seats.

Senate

The upper chamber of Congress, with equal representation of two senators from each state, totaling 100 seats.

Gerrymandering

The practice of redrawing district lines for political advantage, often resulting in 'safe' seats for one party.

Filibuster

A Senate tactic allowing a minority to delay or block legislative action, often requiring 60 votes to invoke cloture.

Cloture

The procedure to end a filibuster in the Senate, requiring a supermajority of 60 votes.

Logrolling

The practice of exchanging support for legislation among legislators to achieve mutual benefit.

Pork Barrel Projects

Government spending for localized projects secured primarily to bring money to a representative's district.

The Power of the Purse

The constitutional power granted to Congress to raise and spend money.

Advise and Consent

The Senate's authority to approve or reject presidential appointments and treaties.

Rules Committee

A powerful committee in the House responsible for determining how bills will be debated and voted on.

Earmarks

Provisions that direct funds to specific projects or programs in legislation, often seen as wasteful.

Incumbency

The holding of an office or the period during which one is in office, often leading to advantages in elections.

Majority Leader

The head of the majority party in either house of Congress, responsible for legislative agenda.

Minority Leader

The head of the minority party in either house of Congress, tasked with representing party interests.

Seniority System

The practice of giving preference in committee assignments and leadership roles based on the length of service.