Congressional Membership Overview

Questions and Answers

What is the total number of representatives in the House?

300

400

435 (correct)

500

Senators serve 2-year terms.

False

What is gerrymandering?

Manipulating district boundaries to favor one political party.

How many years must a senator be a citizen of the United States?

9 years Signup and view all the answers

Who is the most powerful leader in the House?

Speaker of the House Signup and view all the answers

What is the minimum number of members needed for a quorum in the House?

218 Signup and view all the answers

What does the 27th Amendment state?

Congress can't give itself a raise until the next election. Signup and view all the answers

The House is composed of __________ elected representatives.

435 Signup and view all the answers

The Senate has 2 representatives per state.

True Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary responsibility of congressional committees?

To divide work among smaller groups and oversee bills. Signup and view all the answers

What role does the Senate Majority Leader play?

Steers bills and unites party members Signup and view all the answers

What is the term length for members of the House of Representatives?

Two years Signup and view all the answers

What is required for filling a vacancy in the House during the first session of Congress?

Special election must be held Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a requirement to be elected to the House of Representatives?

Hold a college degree Signup and view all the answers

How often must all members of the House run for reelection?

Every two years Signup and view all the answers

What is the process called that involves redrawing congressional district boundaries?

Redistricting Signup and view all the answers

Which statement best describes the continuity of the House of Representatives?

Over 90% of representatives are typically reelected Signup and view all the answers

When do representatives officially begin their term of office after being elected?

January 3 following the election Signup and view all the answers

What stipulation does the Constitution include regarding House representation for states?

Each state is entitled to at least one representative Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary role of an administrative assistant (AA) for a lawmaker?

To run the lawmaker's office and manage their schedule Signup and view all the answers

What key function do legislative assistants (LAs) perform for lawmakers?

Ensure lawmakers are informed about bills and legislative matters Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements is true about personal staff in Congress?

Senators have personal staff expenses based on state population. Signup and view all the answers

Where do a significant number of personal staff members for House members work?

In the lawmakers' home states Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the responsibilities of legislative assistants during Congress meetings?

To assist the lawmaker and prepare questions for meetings Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of the Rules Committee in the legislative process?

To determine how bills are debated and voted on Signup and view all the answers

How does the Rules Committee assist in managing conflicts between House committees?

By adjudicating and settling disputes between committees Signup and view all the answers

What type of relationship is important for an administrative assistant to cultivate?

Influential people in the lawmaker's district or state Signup and view all the answers

What do legislative assistants typically do to inform their lawmakers about legislation?

Research, draft bills, and study current legislative issues Signup and view all the answers

What happens to major bills after they are approved by a committee?

They are forwarded to the Rules Committee for further action Signup and view all the answers

How do the personal staff members assist lawmakers in their daily responsibilities?

By managing their schedules and preparing necessary documents Signup and view all the answers

What might the Rules Committee do with a bill that is not favored by House leaders or representatives?

Delay or block the bill from coming to a vote Signup and view all the answers

What problem does the chairperson of the committee that sent the bill to the Rules Committee try to solve?

Moving the bill ahead of others on the calendar Signup and view all the answers

Why did the American colonies have a degree of self-governance over 150 years after settling Jamestown?

Because communication with Great Britain was slow and difficult Signup and view all the answers

How did the economic relationship between the American colonies and Great Britain function?

The colonies supplied raw materials and imported finished products Signup and view all the answers

What was one significant outcome of the colonies being over 3,000 miles away from Britain?

Colonial governments had to make decisions on their own Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of giving senators six-year terms?

To ensure greater continuity in the Senate. Signup and view all the answers

What occurs if a senator dies or resigns during their term?

The state legislature may authorize the governor to appoint a replacement. Signup and view all the answers

What does the Twenty-seventh Amendment prevent Congress from doing?

Giving itself a pay raise effective until the next election. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following represents a privilege enjoyed by members of Congress?

They cannot be sued for any statement made on the legislative floor. Signup and view all the answers

Which statement about cost-of-living salary adjustments for Congress members is accurate?

They were ruled as allowed by the courts after the amendment's ratification. Signup and view all the answers

What can Congress do regarding the qualifications of its members?

Judge and determine the qualifications of new members. Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the benefits that members of Congress receive?

Pension benefits of $150,000 or more after retirement. Signup and view all the answers

What does the 'franking privilege' allow members of Congress to do?

Mail official business communications without charge. Signup and view all the answers

What is the main purpose of Congress as described in the content?

To formulate and approve national policies. Signup and view all the answers

Which statement about Congressional terms is accurate?

Congress is in session for the entire two-year term. Signup and view all the answers

What determines the number of representatives each state has in the House?

The population of the state. Signup and view all the answers

What is a requirement for someone to be elected as a representative in the House?

They must have been a citizen of the United States for at least 7 years. Signup and view all the answers

What significant role does the President have in relation to Congress?

The President can call Congress back for a special session if adjourned. Signup and view all the answers

How does the membership size of the House of Representatives compare to that of the Senate?

The House has more members than the Senate. Signup and view all the answers

In what year does a new Congressional term begin?

January 3 of odd-numbered years. Signup and view all the answers

Why do states receive at least one seat in the House of Representatives?

To ensure every state has representation regardless of size. Signup and view all the answers

Which case ruled that students' First Amendment rights can be limited in school newspapers?

Hazelwood School District v. Kuhlmeier Signup and view all the answers

What constitutional principle allows the government to limit citizens' rights during wartime?

National Security Signup and view all the answers

Which case determined that the death penalty is constitutional?

Gregg v. Georgia Signup and view all the answers

What was established by the case United States v. Nixon?

Executive privilege cannot withhold evidence. Signup and view all the answers

Which case determined that flag burning is a constitutional form of free speech?

Texas v. Johnson Signup and view all the answers

In which case did the Supreme Court rule that students do not lose their First Amendment rights at school?

Tinker v. Des Moines Independent Community School District Signup and view all the answers

What right is guaranteed to a person accused of a crime?

The right to have a lawyer Signup and view all the answers

What principle was ruled unconstitutional in the case related to separate schooling?

Segregation Signup and view all the answers

Which case established the principle of judicial review?

Marbury v. Madison Signup and view all the answers

What was the primary outcome of McCulloch v. Maryland?

The federal government has implied powers. Signup and view all the answers

Which Supreme Court case dealt with the issue of segregation in public schools?

Brown v. Board of Education Signup and view all the answers

In which case did the Supreme Court rule that evidence obtained illegally cannot be used in court?

Mapp v. Ohio Signup and view all the answers

Which case ruled that the establishment clause prohibits school-sponsored prayer?

Engel v. Vitale Signup and view all the answers

What was established by the Dred Scott v. Sanford decision?

Slaves are considered property and cannot sue. Signup and view all the answers

Which case upheld the principle of 'separate but equal'?

Plessy v. Ferguson Signup and view all the answers

Which landmark case affirmed the right to free speech for students in public schools?

Tinker v. Des Moines School District Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Congressional Structure

Congress is a bicameral legislature consisting of the Senate and the House of Representatives.
Congressional terms begin on January 3 of odd years.
Senators serve 6-year terms with 2 senators per state, while House representatives serve 2-year terms, totaling 435 representatives.

House of Representatives

Qualifications for House members include being at least 25 years old, a citizen for 7 years, and a state resident.
90% of House representatives are reelected, reflecting a strong incumbent advantage.
Representation is apportioned based on the U.S. Census every 10 years, allowing for reapportionment.
Redistricting involves establishing new district boundaries; it can lead to gerrymandering, the manipulation of district lines to favor a particular party.

Senate

Senate qualifications require members to be at least 30 years old, a citizen for 9 years, and a state resident.
Senators are elected by the voters of their state during even-numbered years.
The 27th Amendment prevents Congress from giving itself a pay raise until after the next election.

Leadership in the House

The Speaker of the House is the most powerful leader, chosen by the majority party, and is second in presidential succession.
Majority and Minority leaders team with Whips to manage party strategy and track votes.

Lawmaking Process in the House

Most legislative work occurs in committees, with the Speaker scheduling bills for consideration.
The House Rules Committee plays a critical role in determining how bills are presented and voted upon.
A quorum, requiring 218 members, is necessary for voting on bills.

Senate Functions

The Senate is led by a majority leader who directs legislative priorities and ensures member attendance.
The Vice President presides over the Senate and only votes in case of ties.
Filibuster allows extended debate on legislation, while cloture restricts debate time for senators.

Role of Committees

Committees are essential in dividing labor within Congress and examining specific issues.
Types of committees include standing, select, joint, and conference committees, each serving unique purposes.
Seniority often determines committee leadership positions.

Congressional Staff

Congressional staff manage workloads, coordinate communications with constituents, and support committee functions.
Types of staff include administrative assistants, legislative assistants, and caseworkers, each with specific responsibilities.

Support Agencies

The Library of Congress is the largest library globally, housing extensive resources to aid congressional work.
The Congressional Budget Office evaluates budget proposals and projects program costs.
The Government Accountability Office reviews government programs' financial management and provides oversight.
The Government Printing Office handles official publications and printing needs for Congress.

Congress Overview

Congress is a bicameral legislature, consisting of the Senate and House of Representatives.
Established to hold more power than other government branches, reflecting the founders' emphasis on the lawmaking process.
James Madison regarded Congress as "the First Branch of this Government."

Congressional Sessions

Each Congress term starts on January 3 of odd-numbered years and lasts two years.
Every Congress has two sessions; each session spans one year with recesses for holidays.
Congress requires mutual approval between the House and Senate for adjournment beyond three days.

House of Representatives Membership

Comprising 435 members, the House is larger than the Senate.
Representation is based on population; every state gets at least one seat.
Members must be at least 25 years old, U.S. citizens for 7 years, and residents of their state.
House members serve two-year terms with elections every even-numbered November.

Redistricting

States redraw congressional district boundaries every ten years after apportionment.
District lines can be manipulated, leading to gerrymandering, where boundaries are drawn for political advantage.
House members generally serve longer due to high reelection rates exceeding 90%.

Legislative Salary and Benefits

The Twenty-seventh Amendment limits Congress from raising salaries; increases take effect after an election.
Members receive benefits like franking privilege, medical clinics, and significant allowances for office expenses.

Member Privileges

Members are protected from arrest while attending Congress, except for serious offenses.
They cannot be sued for statements made during Congress proceedings but can face consequences for statements outside official meetings.

Rules Committee Function

The Rules Committee manages the flow of major bills in the House, controlling debate and revision limits.
It can prioritize certain bills and resolve disputes among committees over jurisdiction.

Historical Context

Colonists governed themselves largely due to geographical distance from Great Britain, leading to representative self-rule.
Committees serve as the backbone of Congressional structure, with substantial staffing to assist in legislative processes.

Personal Staff Roles

Lawmakers employ various personal staff, including administrative assistants (AAs) and legislative assistants (LAs).
AAs oversee the lawmaker's office and schedule, while LAs inform lawmakers about bills, conduct research, and assist in committee meetings.

Legislative Process and Meetings

Lawmakers rely on LAs to stay informed, as they can't attend all committee meetings.
LAs prepare materials for lawmakers, ensuring they are ready for discussions and debates on the House or Senate floor.

Marbury v. Madison (1803)

Established the principle of judicial review, giving the Supreme Court the authority to invalidate legislative and executive actions.

McCulloch v. Maryland (1819)

Upheld the supremacy clause of the Constitution, allowing federal laws to take precedence over state laws.

Gibbons v. Ogden (1824)

Asserted that the federal government has the power to regulate interstate commerce, reinforcing federal authority.

Korematsu v. United States (1944)

Ruled that during wartime, the government could limit civil liberties to protect national security, specifically regarding internment camps for Japanese Americans.

Plessy v. Ferguson (1896)

Established the "separate but equal" doctrine, legitimizing racial segregation in public facilities.

Brown v. Board of Education Topeka, Kansas (1954)

Declared that segregated schools were unconstitutional, overturning Plessy v. Ferguson and promoting desegregation.

Dred Scott v. Sanford (1857)

Affirmed that slaves were not citizens and could not sue in federal court, highlighting the injustices of slavery.

Heart of Atlanta Motel v. United States (1964)

Held that private businesses could not discriminate based on race, applying civil rights laws to private establishments.

Swann v. Charlotte-Mecklenburg Board of Education (1971)

Upheld busing as a method for achieving school desegregation, stressing the importance of enforcing integration measures.

Bakke v. The Board of Regents of the University of California (1978)

Addressed affirmative action in college admissions, ruling that racial quotas were unconstitutional but affirmed the need for diversity.

Gregg v. Georgia (1976)

Confirmed the constitutionality of the death penalty as long as it was applied fairly and without discrimination.

Furman v. Georgia (1972)

Ruled that the death penalty, as applied in certain cases, constituted cruel and unusual punishment, leading to moratoriums in its application.

Mapp v. Ohio (1961)

Established the exclusionary rule, preventing the use of illegally obtained evidence in court proceedings.

Gideon v. Wainwright (1963)

Held that the Sixth Amendment guarantees the right to counsel for criminal defendants, ensuring legal representation.

Miranda v. Arizona (1966)

Mandated that individuals taken into police custody must be informed of their rights, including the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney.

New Jersey v. T.L.O. (1985)

Ruled that students may be searched in schools if there is reasonable suspicion that a violation of law or school rules has occurred.

Tinker v. Des Moines School District (1969)

Affirmed that students have the right to free speech in schools, provided it does not disrupt educational activities.

Bethel School District v. Fraser (1986)

Confirmed that schools can prohibit lewd or indecent speech during school events, balancing student rights with educational standards.

Hazelwood School District v. Kuhlmeier (1988)

Allowed school administrators to exercise editorial control over student newspapers, limiting students' free speech rights within educational contexts.

Engel v. Vitale (1962)

Prohibited school-sponsored prayer in public schools, reinforcing the establishment clause of the First Amendment.

Texas v. Johnson (1989)

Affirmed the right to burn the American flag as a form of symbolic speech protected by the First Amendment.

Roe v. Wade (1973)

Established a woman's legal right to choose an abortion, balancing personal privacy with state interests.

Griswold v. Connecticut (1965)

Recognized a right to privacy concerning marital contraception, influencing later rulings on privacy laws.

United States v. Nixon (1972)

Limited the scope of "executive privilege," ruling that the president is not above the law and must comply with judicial demands for evidence.

Schenck v. United States (1919)

Established that free speech can be limited during wartime, setting the precedent for the "clear and present danger" test.

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Description

Explore the structure and membership of the U.S. Congress in this quiz. Learn about the bicameral system, terms of service, and the roles of both the Senate and House of Representatives. Test your knowledge of congressional terms and functions.