Basics
What is the structure on Congress?
Bicameral
What type of powers are listed in the constitution
Enumerated Powers
What is the main purpose of Congressional Committees?
To streamline the legislative process and allow members to specialize.
Who can introduce a bill in Congress?
Any Senator or Representative
How can Congress check the power of the President?
By overriding a veto with a ⅔ vote in each house and impeachment
How many members are in the Senate?
100
A power NOT listed directly in the constitution
Implied powers
Which type of committee is permanent?
Standing
What happens to a bill after it is introduced?
It is sent to a committee for review and amendments.
How does Congress check the judicial branch?
By approving judicial appointments and creating lower courts.
How is the number of House Representatives determined?
Based on the state’s population
What is the “Necessary and Proper” clause used for?
Implied Powers
A committee made up of members from both the House and Senate.
Joint Committee
What majority is needed in both houses for a bill to pass?
Simple majority.
Impeach means to
Formally Accuse
Which amendment allowed for the direct election of Senators?
17th amendment
What is an example of a listed power of congress
Taxes, Declare War
What committee investigates government programs and officals
Congressional Oversight Committee
What options does a committee have
They can approve, deny, or modify
What part of Congress begins the impeachment process
House of Representatives
The official count of the citizens. Occurs every 10 years
What type of power was established in the McCulloch v. Maryland case?
Implied
How is committee membership typically determined
Based on party loyalty and affiliation; the majority party controls the committee chair.
What happens to a bill after both the House and Senate approve it?
It is sent to the President for approval or veto.
What majority is needed in the Senate to convict in an impeachment trial?
2/3rd