Structure
How many members are in Congress?
535, 100 in senate, 435 in house of rep.
How long does a House of Reps. member serve?
2 years.
President of the Senate
Vice President/ Kamala Harris
How often does congress meet?
Generally, twice a year, but it is mandated for once a year.
The Speaker of the House
The Speaker acts as the leader of the U.S. House of Representatives.
(the only position mentioned in the Constitution)
What type of legislature is Congress?
Bicameral. (two different parts with different jobs)
Who/What is the minority leader?
Hakeem Jefferies;
Elected leader of the minority in the House; democrats are the minority currently
Does state size matter when it comes to representation in the Senate.
What is pork-barreling
the utilization of government funds for projects designed to please voters or legislators and win votes.
Majority Leader
The speaker's top assistant. Help plan the majority parties legislative plan.
What is a Congressional Committee?
A group within Congress that focuses on a specific issue
What is a whip?
Keeps tract of legislative, and ensures that all party members are present to vote.
How many senators are needed for a cloture?
60.
(A cloture is a procedure for ending a debate and taking a vote.)
What enumerated powers are in Article 1, of the constitution?
Makes laws, declare wars, Approve presidential appointments, etc.
Minority Leader
Minority leader serves as the floor leader to the “loyal opposition” and is the minority counterpart to the Speaker of the House
Why are the branches of Congress separated?
Americans are guaranteed equal representation, and the houses work together to pass laws.
The number of Representatives from each state is based on what?
The population of a state
(Maryland has 8)
What is the President Pro Tempore?
The member who serves as President of the Senate in absence of VP
What are franking privileges
The ability of members of Congress to mail letters to their constituents free of charge
Party Whips
Whips are responsible for assisting the party leadership in managing the party’s legislative program on the House floor.
(elected during party caucuses or conferences before the start of a new Congress)