Organization of Congress
How does the structure of Congress reflect the principle of federalism?
the bicameral structure of Congress balances power between large and small states, ensuring equal representation (Senate) and population-based representation (House)
How do the term lengths of House members and Senators impact their legislative priorities?
House members, with two-year terms, focus on immediate voter concerns. Senators, with six-year terms, can take longer-term approach to policy
How do Congressional salaries compare to the average American salary, and why is this significant?
At $174,000 per year, congressional salaries are much higher than the median U.S. income, raising concerns about accessibility and the influence of wealth in politics
Why does the Speaker of the House hold significant power in Congress?
The speaker controls the legislative agenda, assigns bills to committees, and influences House procedures, making them one of the most powerful figures in government
Why are they implied powers necessary for Congress to function effectively?
Implied powers allow Congress to address modern issues that the Constitution's founders could not have foreseen, ensuring government adaptability
Why did the founders of the Constitution create a bicameral legislature instead of a unicameral legislature?
they wanted to prevent any one group from having too much power by creating a system of checks and balances between the House and Senate
What is the significance of staggered Senate elections?
Only one-thrird of the Senate is up for re-election every two years, ensuring continuity and stability in government
Why do some people argue that members of COngress should not receive lifetime pensions?
Critics argue that generous pensions, even for short terms of service, are unfair and contribute to excessive government spending
How does the Senate's leadership structure differ from the House's
The Senate has fewer formal leadership roles; power is more evenly distributed among Senators, while the House has stricter hierarchy and party control
How does the Necessary and Proper Clause expand Congressional power?
It allows Congress to pass laws beyond those explicitly stated in the Constitution, as long as they relate to its expressed powers
How does congress's committee system improve efficiency in lawmaking?
Committees divide work among members, allowing them to specialize in certain areas, review bills in detail, and manage legislative workload more effectively
How can a state lose or gain representatives in the House?
Every ten years, the Census determines population shifts, and states may gain or lose representatives based on those changes in population
What are some financial perks that members of Congress receive besides salary?
They received allowances for travel, office expenses, and staff, as well as access to subsidied healthcare and gym facilities
What is the purpose of the Senate's filibuster, and how can it be stopped?
The filibuster allows Senators to delay or block legislation by extending debate. It can be stopped with a cloture vote requiring 60 Senators.
What is a historical example of Congress using its non-legislative powers?
Congress used its investigatory power during the Watergate scandal, leading to President Nixon's resignation
What role does Congress play in the system of checks and balances?
Congress can override presidential vetoes, approve judicial appointments, impeach officials, and control government funding, limiting the power of the executive and judicial branches
Why do Senators have more influence over foreign policy that House members?
The Senate has the power to approve treaties and confirm ambassadors, giving them a direct role in shaping foreign relations
How can members of Congress increase their own salaries, and what prevents abuse of this power?
Congress can vote to raise salaries, but the 27th Amendment prevents immediate pay increases, delaying them until after the next election
How do political parties influence Congressional leadership roles?
The majority party selects leadership positions, including the Speaker, Majority Leader, and committee chairs, shaping legislative priorities
How do the expressed powers of Congress differ from those of the President?
Congress has lawmaking and financial powers, like taxation and declaring war, while the President enforces laws and leads the military
Why is the House considered the "lower" chamber and the Senate the "upper" chamber?
The House has more members, shorter terms, and represents smaller districts. The Senate has fewer members, longer terms, and broader responsibilities like treaty approval and confirming federal judges
What is the role of the House in the impeachment process, and how does it differ from the Senator's role?
The House has the power to impeach (formally charge) officials, while the Senate conducts the trial and decides whether to remove them from office
Why do members of COngress often earn significant income after leaving office?
Many become lobbyists, consultants, or public speakers, using their political connections to secure high-paying jobs
What is the role of Congressional whips, and why are they important?
Whips track votes, persuade members to support party positions, and maintain party discipline to ensure legislation passes
Why might COngress's power to regulate interstate commerce be controversial?
It allows Congress to influence a wide range of economic activities, sometimes leading to conflicts over states' rights and federal authority