Congress Basics
What is the main job of Congress?
Make laws
How many Senators does each state have?
2 Senators
What is the first step in creating a law?
Someone introduces an idea for a law. If a Congressperson sponsors the idea (agrees that this idea should become law), it officially becomes a bill.
What principle of democracy is demonstrated when Congress overrides a veto?
Checks and Balances
What is an interest group?
A group of like-minded individuals that work together to influence public policy
Which branch of government is Congress part of?
Legislative
How long is a House term?
2 years
After passing one chamber, where does the bill go?
The other chamber
What role does the Senate play in checking the president?
Confirming presidential appointments
What does a lobbyist do?
What are the two chambers of Congress?
House of Representatives and Senate
6 years
What must happen before a bill goes to the president?
Both chambers pass the same version
Which branch interprets laws?
Judicial
What is gerrymandering?
Drawing congressional districts to favor a political party
What major financial power does Congress have?
Tax and create a budget (Power of the Purse)
What determines how many House members a state gets?
Population of the state
What does the president do if they disagree with a bill?
Veto it
What is one way the president checks Congress?
Veto
What is apportionment?
Distributing House seats based on population
Which branch has the power to declare war?
Legislative Branch / Congress
Which chamber can introduce revenue (tax) bills?
House of Representatives
How can Congress still pass a bill after a veto?
2/3 override vote in both chambers of Congress
Why are checks and balances important?
Prevent one branch from becoming too powerful
If a candidate gets most money from banks and tech companies, what policies will they likely support?
Policies favoring those industries