Congress in a Flash Flashcards

Questions and Answers

What does the term 'Legislative' mean?

A person who makes laws

To make laws (correct)

An adjective that means 'lawmaking' (correct)

A written document that is or may become a law

What is a Legislator?

A person who makes laws

What is legislation?

A written document that is or may become a law

What is the size of the Senate?

Two senators from each state, totaling 100 Signup and view all the answers

Who qualifies to be a senator?

At least 30 years old, a U.S. citizen for at least nine years, and live in the state they represent Signup and view all the answers

For how long do senators serve?

Six years Signup and view all the answers

What special duties does the Senate have?

The Senate approves presidential appointments, like ambassadors, judges, and cabinet members Signup and view all the answers

What is the size of the House of Representatives?

435 total, based on population Signup and view all the answers

Who qualifies to be a representative?

At least 25 years old, a U.S. citizen for at least seven years, and live in the state they represent Signup and view all the answers

For how long do representatives serve?

Two years Signup and view all the answers

What special duties does the House of Representatives have?

All bills that deal with raising money must start in the House Signup and view all the answers

What can Congress do concerning the president?

Call for the impeachment of the president and pass bills over a presidential veto with a 2/3 vote Signup and view all the answers

In lawmaking, what must happen for a bill to become a law?

A bill must be approved by both chambers of Congress Signup and view all the answers

Which chamber of Congress is described in section 2?

House of Representatives Signup and view all the answers

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

25 Signup and view all the answers

How long must a representative have been a U.S. citizen?

Seven years Signup and view all the answers

What are the rules for how the House and Senate operate?

Constitution Signup and view all the answers

How many senators must agree to expel a member from the Senate?

67 Signup and view all the answers

What are the terms served by the House of Representatives?

Serve two-year terms Signup and view all the answers

What is a defining characteristic of the Senate's membership?

Members represent an entire state Signup and view all the answers

Who leads the Senate?

Vice President of the U.S. Signup and view all the answers

Which chamber might likely support hard choices and compromises?

The Senate Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

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.

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Description

This set of flashcards provides quick definitions and insights into key terms related to the legislative process. Ideal for students and anyone looking to familiarize themselves with the workings of Congress. Enhance your understanding of lawmaking with these concise learning tools.