US Congress Structure and Powers

A system where most of the work in Congress is done by smaller groups, allowing for focused discussions and expertise on specific topics.

In a democracy, the will of the people is expressed through laws created by their elected representatives.

A formal meeting of Congress that takes place once a year, where lawmakers gather to discuss and pass legislation.

The leader of the House of Representatives, responsible for guiding debates and overseeing the legislative process.

The principle that the Constitution can be interpreted broadly to adapt to changing times and needs.

Powers explicitly granted to Congress by the Constitution, such as the power to collect taxes, borrow money, and coin money.

The power to set a minimum wage is not an expressed power of Congress, but rather a power granted through implied powers interpretation of the Constitution.

The process of interpreting the Constitution broadly to adapt to new circumstances, allowing for expansion of government powers.

The staff that works for a Congressman is a smaller group compared to the larger committees that work on specific topics.

The President Pro Tempore is the presiding officer of the Senate in the absence of the Vice President.

The public's wishes become laws through the actions of their elected representatives.

The Committee System allows for specialized knowledge and focused discussions on specific topics.

The power to collect taxes, borrow money, and coin money are examples of powers granted to Congress by the Constitution.

The Constitution can be interpreted in different ways to adapt to changes in society.

The public's demand for services has influenced the expansion of government powers over time.

The Constitution is a living document, meaning it can be interpreted differently over time to meet changing needs.

Wars and economic crises often lead to the government taking on new powers to address challenges.

Advances in transportation and communication have expanded the scope of government, allowing for greater interaction and coordination.

Decisions made by the Supreme Court interpret the Constitution and set legal precedents.

Political Action Committees (PACs) are groups that influence policy, but they do not directly make laws.