Congress

The U.S. Congress is a bicameral legislative system, meaning it has two chambers: the House of Representatives and the Senate. This structure was established to balance representation between populous states and smaller states, resulting in the Great Compromise (or Connecticut Compromise). The House has representatives elected from single-member districts, while the Senate consists of senators elected at-large from each state. Elections occur at staggered intervals, with specific terms for members. The sessions of Congress are guided by rules including quorum requirements, and special sessions can be called by the President for urgent matters. Leadership roles in Congress include the Speaker of the House, the President of the Senate, the President Pro-Tempore, floor leaders, and whips, who help coordinate party positions. Compensation for Congress members includes salary and non-salary benefits. Key amendments related to Congress include the 17th Amendment (which established direct election of senators), the 20th Amendment (which sets the terms for federal offices), and the 27th Amendment (which prevents laws affecting Congressional salary from taking effect until after the next election).