U.S. Congress: Structure, Powers, and Redistricting

What is the total number of members in the House of Representatives?

435 total members

What is the term length for a member of the House of Representatives?

2 years

What is the minimum age requirement to serve in the House of Representatives?

25 years of age

What is the citizenship requirement for a House member?

Must be a citizen for at least 7 years

How are House seats distributed?

Based on population with redistricting every 10 years

What is the total number of members in the Senate?

100 members

What is the term length for a Senator?

6 years

What is the minimum age requirement to serve in the Senate?

30 years of age

What is the citizenship requirement for a Senator?

Must be a citizen for 9 years

What is the significance of the 17th Amendment regarding the Senate?

It established that Senators are voted in by the people.

What powers does Congress have according to Article 1 Section 8?

To lay and collect taxes, borrow money, regulate commerce, establish naturalization rules, coin money, declare war, and maintain armed forces.

What is the purpose of the Necessary and Proper Clause?

It allows Congress to make laws necessary to carry out its powers.

What are standing committees in the House?

Permanent committees that debate proposed bills.

What is a discharge petition in the House?

An individual bringing a bill to the floor for debate.

Who presides over the Senate?

The President of the Senate.

What is a filibuster?

A tactic used to delay or block legislative action.

What is the purpose of a conference committee?

To ensure legislation is the same for presidential signature.

What is the difference between mandatory and discretionary spending?

Mandatory spending is required by law, while discretionary spending is determined annually.

What is gerrymandering?

The practice of drawing district lines to advantage or disadvantage a political party.

What was the significance of Baker v. Carr (1962)?

It enforced the principle of '1 Person 1 Vote' under the Equal Protection Clause.

What does the term 'packing' refer to in gerrymandering?

Consolidating common groups of voters into specific areas.

What does the term 'cracking' refer to in gerrymandering?

Dividing common groups of voters across district lines.

What was the ruling in Shaw v. Reno (1993) regarding racial gerrymandering?

States can consider race in redistricting, but it cannot be the sole factor.

What is the role of political affiliation in Congress?

It organizes political beliefs and rallies support for candidates.

What are the three models of representation in Congress?

Delegate, Trustee, and Politico.