Differences and Similarities in Congress and Parliament

Study Notes

Differences Between Congress and Parliament

Both houses in Congress are elected; only one house in Parliament is elected.
Congress consists of two equal houses, while Parliament is dominated by the lower house.
Congress represents two main political parties; Parliament features multiple parties.
The executive branch is separate in Congress; it is included in Parliament.
Size comparison: Senate has 100 members; House of Lords has around 800 members.
Senate holds unique oversight powers, including confirmation of appointments, which are not applicable to the House of Lords.

Similarities Between Congress and Parliament

Both are bicameral systems, though control of each house may differ between parties.
The president's or prime minister's party may not have dominance in both houses.
Both institutions play crucial roles in legislation and oversight functions.
Legislative work is conducted in committees; oversight functions are managed by standing committees in Congress and select committees in Parliament.
Both operate under a first-past-the-post electoral system.

Composition of Congress

Reflects the federal nature of the USA, with members representing individual states or districts.
Direct election of the upper chamber emphasizes democratic participation.

Composition of Parliament

Represents the unitary or devolved structure of the UK, with MPs from historic counties, cities, and towns.
The hereditary and appointed upper chamber indicates historical dominance of the gentry and church.

Legislative Powers in Congress vs. Parliament

Congress introduces thousands of bills in a session, while Parliament typically introduces only a few.
A limited number of bills are passed in Congress; most bills are successfully passed in Parliament.
Committee stages occur before debate in Congress and after in Parliament.
Congress features permanent, specialist standing committees; Parliament’s committees do not share this permanence.
Both chambers in Congress hold equal power; in Parliament, the lower chamber holds dominance.
The president in Congress has veto power; royal assent is now routinely granted in Parliament.

Oversight Powers in Congress vs. Parliament

Congressional oversight involves standing and select committee hearings, confirmation of appointments, treaty ratification, and the impeachment process.
Parliamentary oversight includes Question Time, select committee hearings, debates, and votes of no confidence.

Representation in Congress vs. Parliament

Congressional members face voter elections every two or six years.
Parliamentary members face voters every five years.

Description

Explore the key differences and similarities between Congress and Parliament in this quiz. Understand the structures, functions, and political dynamics that characterize these bicameral systems. Test your knowledge on legislative processes and oversight roles within both institutions.