Structure
What are the two houses of Congress?
The House of Representatives and the Senate.
What is one power of Congress?
To tax, declare war, or regulate commerce.
How does Congress check the power of the President?
By overriding vetoes, confirming appointments, and impeaching.
What is a bill?
A proposal for new legislation.
Who was the first Speaker of the House?
Frederick Muhlenberg.
How many members are in the House of Representatives?
435
What does it mean to "override a veto"?
To pass a bill despite the President's veto, requiring a two-thirds majority in both houses.
What role does Congress play in impeachment?
The House of Representatives initiates impeachment, and the Senate conducts the trial.
How does a bill become a law?
It must be passed by both houses of Congress and signed by the President.
What amendment established the current number of Senators?
The 17th Amendment
What is the role of the Senate?
To represent the states, confirm appointments, and ratify treaties.
What are the exclusive powers of the Senate?
Confirming treaties and presidential appointments.
What is the significance of the Supreme Court in relation to Congress?
The Supreme Court can declare laws passed by Congress unconstitutional.
What is the role of committees in Congress?
To review and refine legislation before it is considered by the full house.
What major legislation did Congress pass in the Civil Rights Movement?
The Civil Rights Act of 1964.
What is the term length for a Senator?
Six years
What is the power of the purse?
The power to control government spending and taxation.
How can Congress influence the judiciary?
By confirming judges and altering the structure of the court system.
What is a filibuster?
A tactic used to delay or block legislation by speaking for an extended time.
What is the significance of the Congressional Record?
t is the official record of the proceedings and debates of Congress.
What is the main function of Congress?
To Make Laws
What power allows Congress to regulate commerce?
The Commerce Clause.
What is the process of confirming federal judges?
The President nominates judges, and the Senate confirms them.
What is the significance of a pocket veto?
It allows the President to indirectly veto a bill by not signing it within ten days while Congress is adjourned.
Who has the power to redraw congressional districts?
State legislatures.