Congress Basics
What are the two houses of Congress?
House of Representatives & Senate
How long is a Representative’s term?
2 years
How long is a Senator's term?
6 years
Who can introduce a bill?
Any member of Congress
How often does the Census occur?
Every 10 years
What is the main job of Congress?
To make laws
What is the minimum age to serve in the House?
25
What is the minimum age to serve in the Senate?
30
What options does the President have when they receive a bill?
Sign, Veto, and Pocket veto
What does “redistricting” mean?
Changing district lines for the House of Representatives
What power allows Congress to remove a federal official from office?
Impeachment
How many total members are in the House
435
How many total members are in the Senate
100
What happens if the President vetoes a bill?
Congress can override the veto with a 2/3 vote
What is “gerrymandering”?
Drawing district lines to help one party win more seats
What is the difference between expressed powers and implied powers?
Expressed: listed or clearly stated in Constitution
Implied: Not listed or clearly stated in Constitution, but necessary to carry out
How is representation in the House determined?
Based on state population
Who serves as President of the Senate?
Vice President
What is the purpose of a conference committee?
To resolve differences between House and Senate versions of a bill
Packing: putting as many voters of one party in a district.
Cracking: splitting up voters from one party into several districts.
Where in the Constitution is Congress described?
Article I
Who is the leader of the House of Representatives?
Speaker of the House
What role does the Senate play in Impeachment
Holds the trial
What is a fillibuster?
tactic used in the Senate to delay or block a vote on a bill
What is one advantage incumbents (person in office) often have in elections?
Name recognition, fundraising, experience, or established support