Congress in a Flash Flashcards

Legislative Branch Overview

• Legislative refers to the process of making laws.
• A legislator is an individual who creates laws.
• The adjective "legislative" describes activities related to lawmaking.

Legislation

• Legislation is a written document that has the potential to become law.

The Senate

• Composed of 100 senators, with two elected from each state.
• Senators must be at least 30 years old, a U.S. citizen for a minimum of nine years, and reside in the state they represent.
• Senators advocate for the interests of all citizens in their state during a six-year term.
• Responsibilities include approving presidential appointments like ambassadors and judges.

The House of Representatives

• Total of 435 Representatives, with state representation based on population.
• Representatives must be at least 25 years old, a U.S. citizen for at least seven years, and live in the state they represent.
• They represent the interests of citizens in their specific district for a two-year term.
• All financially related bills must originate in the House.

Congressional Powers and Function

• Checks and balances are in place: Congress can impeach the president, override vetoes with a two-thirds majority, and establish lower federal courts.
• A bill can originate in either chamber but must be approved by both the House and Senate before reaching the president for signing.

Age and Citizenship Requirements

• Representatives must be at least 25 years old and are required to have been U.S. citizens for seven years.
• Senators must be at least 30 years old and must have been U.S. citizens for nine years.

Historical Note

• Hattie Caraway of Arkansas was the first woman elected to the Senate in 1932.

Rules and Governance

• The Constitution governs the procedural rules of both the House and Senate.
• For expulsion of a member, 67 senators must concur.

Additional Facts

• House members serve two-year terms, starting with a minimum age of 25, and the leader is known as the "Speaker."
• Senate members represent entire states, led by the Vice President, and there are a total of 100 members.

Compromise and Cooperation

• In the context of decision-making, the Senate is considered more likely to support compromises that satisfy both chambers.