The United States Congress is the legislative branch of the federal government and is responsible for making laws for the nation. It is a bicameral body, meaning it is composed of two separate chambers:
- The Senate: The Senate is the upper chamber of Congress and is composed of 100 Senators, two from each state. Senators serve staggered six-year terms, with approximately one-third of the Senate up for election every two years. The Vice President of the United States serves as the President of the Senate but only votes in case of a tie. The Senate has special powers, such as confirming presidential appointments and ratifying treaties.
- The House of Representatives: The House is the lower chamber of Congress and is composed of 435 Representatives. The number of Representatives for each state is based on its population, with each state guaranteed at least one Representative. Representatives serve two-year terms, and elections for all members are held every two years. The Speaker of the House, elected by the members of the House, presides over its sessions.
The primary functions of Congress include:
- Making Laws: Congress is responsible for proposing, debating, and passing legislation on a wide range of issues, including taxation, spending, healthcare, national defense, and more. Both chambers must pass identical versions of a bill for it to become law, and the President can either sign the bill into law or veto it.
- Oversight: Congress has the power to oversee the implementation of laws by the executive branch and to investigate matters of public concern. This includes conducting hearings, issuing subpoenas, and requesting information from government agencies.
- Representing Constituents: Members of Congress represent the interests of their constituents (the people who live in their congressional districts or states) by advocating for their needs and concerns in the legislative process.
- Checks and Balances: Congress serves as a check on the power of the executive and judicial branches by approving presidential appointments, including Supreme Court justices and cabinet members, and by impeaching and removing federal officials, including the President, for misconduct.
Overall, Congress plays a crucial role in the functioning of the U.S. government and is central to the system of checks and balances established by the Constitution.