One
What is the role of the legislative branch?
to make laws
What’s a bicameral legislature?
bicameral means 2 houses
What is it called when congress is working?
Being in session
Who presides over the U.S. Senate?
Vice President
How is representation in the senate determined?
Equal number per state (2)
Where are the powers of the legislative branch found?
article I of the constitution
How is representation in the House of Representatives determined?
by population
How long is the term for members of the senate?
6 years
How long is the term for members of the House of Representatives?
2 years
Unlimited debate in senate “talking the bill to death”
What is a filibuster?
What are the powers given to Congress in the constitution?
taxing, make laws, regulate commerce, declare war
Who is the leader of the House of Representatives?
Speaker of the house
What are the requirements to run for the House of Representatives?
25 yr old, citizen 7 yrs, live in state you’ll represent
Free mail representatives and senators can send to constituents
What is the franking privilege?
What is a joint committee?
Made up of members of House and Senate - deal w/ Library of Congress and other administrative issues
Redrawing the congressional district lines to favor one party
What is gerrymandering?
What are the requirements to run for senate?
30 yrs old, 9 yrs citizen, live in state you’ll represent
Start all revenue (tax) bills, write articles of impeachment, pick president in electoral college tie
What are powers given only to the House of Representatives?
What is redistricting? When’s it done?
Redrawing congressional districts after reapportionment; every 10 yrs
What does it mean to reapportion the seats in the House of Representatives?
Reallocate seats in the House to states after census
Created for specific purpose - usually temporary - investigates things like watergate, bp oil spill
What is a select committee?
What amendment called for the direct election of senators?
17th amendment
Made up of members of House and Senate - deal w/ Library of Congress and other administrative issues
What is a joint committee?
Approve treaties, approve appointments, act as jury in impeachment trial, pick vp in electoral college tie
What are powers given only to the senate?
When a bill differs between the House and Senate, which group will attempt to reach a compromise between the 2 versions?
Conference committees