Congressional Membership Section 1
|
|
- Myles Nash
- 5 years ago
- Views:
Transcription
1 The Organization of Congress Chapter 5
2 Congressional Membership Section 1
3 Introduction The Founders did not intend to make Congress a privileged group. They did intend to make the legislative branch the most powerful of the three branches. Congress is described in Article I. James Madison said that Congress is the First Branch of Government. The United States Congress is a bicameral legislature consisting of the House of Representatives and the Senate. Congress formulates national policies ranging from health care to tax changes.
4 Congressional Sessions 1 session + 1 session = 1 term Each term of Congress begins on January 3 of odd- numbered years and lasts for two years. The 112 th Congress began this year (Jan. 3, 2011) Each term of Congress is divided into two one year sessions or meetings. Each one year session includes breaks for holidays and vacation. Congress remains in session until its members vote to adjourn. Neither chamber may adjourn for more than three days without the approval of the other chamber. The president may call Congress back into special session if the Congress is adjourned.
5 The House of Representatives Larger of the two chambers 435 members apportioned based on population Each state is entitled to at least one seat in the House, no matter how small
6 The Senate Smaller of the two chambers 100 total members 2 per state Based on equal representation
7 Qualifications Representatives must be 25 years old Representatives must be citizens of the United States for at least 7 years Representatives must also be legal residents of the state that elects them Traditionally, they also live in the district they represent. Senators must be 30 years old Senators must be citizens of the United States for at least 9 years Senators must also be legal residents of the state that elects them All voters of each state elect senators at-large, or statewide.
8 Terms of Office House Elected for 2 year terms Elections are held in November of even-numbered numbered years 2008, 2010, 2012 Term begins on January 3 following November election All 435 members run for re- election every two years More than 90% of Representatives are elected again (incumbents) providing great continuity A special election is held if a Representative dies or resigns in the first session of the term Senate Elected for 6 year terms Elections are held in November of even-numbered numbered years 2008, 2010, 2012 Term begins on January 3 following November election Only one-third of the senate is up for re-election election every two years. Most senators are re-elected elected providing for great continuity If a senator dies or resigns before the end of the term the state legislature may authorize the governor to appoint someone to fill the vacancy until the next election or may call for a special election.
9 APPORTIONMENT The Constitution requires that all Americans be counted every 10 years by a census to determine population for reapportionment in the House of Representatives. The 2010 census was just conducted last year. Apportionment is the allocation of congressional seats among the states. The House has grown from 65 members in 1790 to 435 in 1910 (the statutory limit since 1929). Each state must have one representative; the remaining 385 are divided equally based on population On average, each representative has 650,000 people in his/her district today (versus 30,000 from 1790 to 1900) States may lose or gain representatives according to their population growth. No state will ever lose all of its representatives. The Reapportionment Act of 1929 set the permanent number of representatives at 435.
10 Congressional Redistricting After each state finds out their reapportioned representation for the next 10-year period, each state legislature sets up congressional districts one for each representative. Representatives are elected from these congressional districts. This process of setting up new district lines is called redistricting. States have sometimes abused this redistricting power by setting up districts with unequal populations and by gerrymandering. ap1.pdf
11 State Representation Which state has the most Representatives in Congress? (1) California (53 Members) (2) Texas (32) (3) New York (29) (4) Florida (25) (5) Pennsylvania (19) (6) Illinois (19) (7) Ohio (18) (8) Michigan (15) (9) New Jersey (13) (10) North Carolina (13) (11) Georgia (13) (12) Massachusetts (10) Which has the least? Seven states have only one Representative, due to their low population. These Members represent their entire state and are formally known as "at-large" Members: (1) Alaska (2) Delaware (3) Montana (4) North Dakota (5) South Dakota (6) Vermont (7) Wyoming
12 Gerrymandering Gerrymandering occurs when the political party controlling the state government draws a district s boundaries to gain an advantage in elections. Packing a district means to draw the lines so that the district to include as many of the opposing party s voters as possible. This makes the other districts safe for the majority party. Cracking is dividing an opponents voters into other districts to weaken the opponent s voter base.
13 Gerrymandering and Minority/Majority Districts The issue of gerrymandering has not been resolved When a state s district shape has been altered by the majority party to maximize its power. Minority/Majority districts have been approved by the US Supreme Court under a mandate by the Voting Rights Act of 1965.
14 Salary The Senate and the House set their own salaries. In 1789 salaries were $6.00 per day for each house. The 27 th Amendment prohibiting a sitting Congress from giving themselves a pay raise was originally proposed by James Madison in 1789, but not ratified until May 2, Salary for both chambers is $174,000.
15 Congressional Leaders Salaries Congress: Leadership Members' Salary (112th Congress) Leaders of the House and Senate are paid a higher salary than rank-and-file members. Senate Leadership Majority Leader - $193,400 Minority Leader - $193,400 House Leadership Speaker of the House - $223,500 Majority Leader - $193,400 Minority Leader - $193,400
16 Pay,Perks, and Privileges $174,000 Private gym Cheap haircuts Airport parking Capitol parking No tickets Subsidized meals Free plants Free medical care Pensions Travel allowances Franking privileges-60 million yearly 35,000 staff Half are personal and committee staff members Senate offices employ 30 House offices employ about 15 Congressional Research Service General Accounting Office Congressional Budget Office Article I, Section 6 of the Constitution: they shall in all cases, except treason, felony and Breach of Peace, be privileged from arrest during their attendance at the session of their respective houses, and in going and in returning from the same; and for any Speech or Debate in either house.
17 Privileges Free from arrest in all cases except treason, felony or breach of the peace when they are attending Congress or on their way to and from Congress. Cannot be sued for anything they say on the floor of Congress. Senate and House may judge a member s qualifications and decide to seat them. A majority vote by each house to not seat a member is called exclusion. Each chamber can punish its members for disorderly behavior by a majority vote and expel a member by a two-thirds thirds vote. (treason and accepting bribes) Censure is a vote of disapproval of a member s actions.
18 Members of Congress Congress has 535 voting members Senators Representatives 6 non-voting delegates in the House - District of Columbia - Guam - American Samoa - Virgin Islands One non- voting resident commissioner from Puerto Rico These non-voting members attend sessions, introduce bills, speak in debates and vote in committees.
19 Characteristics Nearly half of members are lawyers Large numbers come from business, banking, and education Typically have been white, middle-aged men Average age is over fifty Slowly Congress has begun to reflect the racial, ethnic, and gender diversity of the general population.
20 Ethnic Make-up of 112 th Congress African-American American Members: 44 in House; 0 in Senate. Hispanic-American Members: 23 in House; 2 in Senate Asian-American/Pacific American/Pacific Islander Members: 9 in House; 2 in Senate and 2 Delegates Native American Members: 1 in House; 0 in Senate
21 Women in the 112th Congress In the House there are 73 female Representatives. The Senate has 15 females. The first woman elected to serve in Congress was Representative Jeannette Rankin, a Republican from Montana. She served from 1917 to 1919 and again from 1941 to 1943.
22 Reelection to Congress Membership in Congress has changed very slowly because most officeholders get re- elected. Senators and Representatives who get reelected while in office are called incumbents. Incumbents are more successful because it is easier for them to raise money, they have name recognition, their district is drawn in their favor, they are in a position to solve constituent problems and voters think that they represent their views better than someone new.
23 United States Congress
24 Key Differences House Initiate revenue bills 2-year term 435 Formal Specialists Tax policy Senate advise and consent 6-year term 100 Relaxed Generalists Foreign policy
25 Let s Review House years old Resident of the being represented Citizen for years members/ proportioned by based on the Number is set at Leader is the Term of office is years All are up for election every years is 1 year Senate years old Resident of the being represented Citizen for years members/ per state May add new members Leader is the (Vice President) Term of office is years (33 or 34) are up for election every years Session is 1 year Special Session may be called by the President!
26
27 Congressional Leaders
28 Organization of Congress Every two years, a new Congress is seated. The first order of business is the election of leaders and adoption of new rules. Both houses of Congress are organized on the basis of party for both leadership and committee purposes.
29 Organization Each house has the power to organize itself: 1) Political Parties - No mention of political parties in Constitution - Create own rules - Majority party Republican - Minority party Democrat - Each party has a leader 2) Whips 3) Committees
30 Congress Organizes House of Reps A clerk calls chamber to order and checks roll. The members choose a Speaker who takes an oath and swears in the rest of the House. House elects various positions, adopts new rules and organizes committees. Senate Continuous body: New and reelected members are sworn in and committee vacancies are filled. Congress adjourns until the State of the Union Address.
31 Congressional Leadership
32
33 Duties of Party Leaders Spokesperson for the party Advocates party policy and viewpoints Keeps party united Schedule of business
34 The President of the Senate Under the Constitution, the Vice President serves as President of the Senate. He may vote in the Senate in the case of a tie, but is not required to. The President Pro Tempore (and others designated by him) usually perform these duties during the Vice President's frequent absences from the Senate.
35 Whips Role of the Whip Whips perform three primary functions: mobilizing the vote on key legislative objectives, providing information to Members and leadership, coordinating strategy within the House. Mobilizing the Vote Before a major vote comes to the floor, the Whip polls Members on their support of the legislation. The Whip ensures that the leadership position has strong support. Distributing Information The Whip provides information to Members such as the upcoming schedule of legislation. The Whip`s office distributes weekly Whip Notice and the daily Whipping Post to the Members of the House, which lists the anticipated legislation on the floor. In addition to the Whip Notice and Whipping Post, the Whip`s office also distributes the House calendar which lists the days of the year that the House of Representatives is expected to be in session. Coordinating Strategy The Whip coordinates strategy and scheduling with the Speaker and Majority Leader on the floor of the House of Representatives. The Whip is expected to "get out the vote," by ensuring that Members will be present on the floor during close votes. The Whip is largely responsible for coordinating voting strategy among the party members to ensure final passage. History The term "whipper in" is a British term for the person responsible for keeping the foxhounds from leaving the pack. It was first used in the House of Commons in the late 1700s and in the House of Representatives in 1897, when James A. Tawney (R-Minn.) was appointed a whip by Speaker Thomas Reed (R-Maine) to help Reed keep track of the whereabouts of party Members.
36
37 Speaker of the House House Officer, Party Leader, and Representative The Speaker of the House of Representatives is widely viewed as symbolizing the power and authority of the House. The Speaker s most prominent role is that of presiding officer of the House. In this capacity he is empowered by House rules to administer proceedings on the House floor, including the power to recognize Members on the floor to speak or make motions and the power to appoint Members to conference committees. The Speaker is often responsible for airing and defending the majority party s legislative agenda in the House. The Speaker s third distinct role is that of an elected Member of the House. Although he is elected as an officer of the House, the Speaker continues to be a Member as well. As such he enjoys the same rights, responsibilities, and privileges of all Representatives. However, he traditionally refrains from debating or voting in most circumstances, and does not sit on any standing committee of the House.
38 Selection of the Speaker When the House of Representatives convenes at the beginning of a new Congress, its first order of business is to elect a Speaker. Because the House dissolves at the end of a Congress and must start anew at the beginning of each new Congress, the Clerk of the House presides over the House under general parliamentary law until a Speaker is elected. Because the election of the Speaker typically takes place before the House adopts its rules of procedure, the election process is defined by precedent and practice rather than by any formal rule. To be elected Speaker a candidate must receive an absolute majority of the votes cast. Although the major parties nominate candidates for the position of Speaker, there is no limitation on whom Members may vote for. In fact, there is no requirement that the Speaker be a Member of the House. None of the other officers of the House is a Member. If no candidate receives the requisite majority, the roll call is repeated until a Speaker is elected. Again, Members may continue to vote for any individual, and no restrictions, such as eliminating minority candidates or prohibiting new candidates from being named, are imposed. For example, at the beginning of the 34th Congress in 1855, 133 ballots over a period of two months were necessary to elect Nathaniel Banks of Massachusetts as Speaker.
39 Committees Groups of Congress people assigned to study groups of specific areas of expertise laws are assigned to each committee based on subject area Agriculture, Rules, Budget, Homeland Security At least 2 committee assignments per Congressman Meet with witnesses and experts to gain information Leaders of Committee are in majority party
40 Bells A system of bells and lights throughout the Capital building let Congressmen know what is going on One long bell and one light = vote, members have 15 min. to vote After ½ has elapsed, 5 bells and 5 lights tell members to hurry Other bells and lights indicate beginning meetings, adjournment, and other business
41 Q: What do these people do? A: Make laws!
42
43 How a Bill Becomes a Law
44 FACT: There are over 10,000 bills proposed each year but on 10 % get passed.
45
46 How a bill becomes a law: 1. Bills are placed in the hopper where they are read aloud before the House, given a number then sent to committee. 2. Bills are revised in standing committees and subcommittees.
47 Standing Committees House Committees: Agriculture Appropriations Armed Services Banking and Financial Services Budget Commerce Education and the Workforce Government Reform House Administration International Relations Judiciary Resources Rules Science Small Business Standards of Official Conduct Transportation and Infrastructure Veterans Affairs Ways and Means Senate Committees: Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry Appropriations Armed Services Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs Budget Commerce, Science, and Transportation Energy and Natural Resources Environment and Public Works Finance Foreign Relations Governmental Affairs Indian Affairs Judiciary Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Rules and Administration Small Business Veterans Affairs
48 The Standing Committee s The Standing committee may approve the bill or give an unfavorable report. Decision: Rules Committee sets conditions for debate.
49 Step 3: Floor Action Bill is debated, often amended, then passed or defeated. If the bill is passed in the House with a simple majority vote, it must go through the same process in the Senate.
50 Off to the Senate...
51 Here we go again... Bill goes through the same process committee then floor debate it must receive a simple majority vote to continue. NOTE: The Senate may filibuster to delay action on a bill.
52 Q: What if the House and the Senate pass different versions of a bill? A: CONFERENCE COMMITTEE
53 CONFERENCE COMMITTEE Members from both houses agree on the bill s final wording. This compromise is voted on by both houses.
54 Off to the President...
55 President s Options: Sign the bill. Veto the bill- which would send it back to Congress with the possibility of being overridden. Wait 10 days, thus allowing the bill to become law without signature. Wait 10 days, Congress adjourns, bill dies= pocket veto.
56
57
58 Powers Granted to Congress Congress makes laws regarding: Levy and Collect Taxes Borrow money Regulate international trade, trade between states, and w/ Native Americans Laws of Naturalization Laws of Bankruptcy Coin Money Punish Counterfitters
59 Powers of Congress cont d Established post offices Pass copyrights and patents Declare war Raise and support armies Provide, organize, arm, and discipline the militia Make laws for Washington DC Laws for property belonging to the federal gov t ex. Forts, arsenals, national parks
60 Elastic Clause To make all laws which shall be necessary and proper for carrying into execution for the foregoing powers Congress can make laws to help them execute their duties Implied powers
61 Decorum Members do not address each other Cannot question others motives or speak badly of another state Call other members by title My esteemed colleague, The capable senior Senator from VT, The distinguished Representative
62 Impeachment House has the power of Impeachment Impeachment= bring charges of misbehavior in office against a US official
63 Impeachment Trials SENATE convicts person on trial If the president is on trial, the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court presides Must have 2/3 majority to convict person
64 Punishment for Impeachment Conviction ONLY penalty is removal from office Can never hold office again Person can be tried in a civilian (regular) court when they are out of office
65 Standing Committee Committee Structure Special or select Committee Joint Committees
66 Parties control Congress House of Representatives 435 total 229 Republicans 205 Democrats
67 Parties control Congress Senate 51 Republicans 48 Democrats 1 Independent (James Jeffords, Vermont)
68 Powers of Congress Legislative Non-legislative Constituent Judicial Executive Investigative Others
69 Legislative Congress is empowered to make all laws (Constitution, Article 1, section 8) Major function According to the Constitution Congress is the only national lawmaking authority Lawmaking process is very complex A proposed bill must pass through many steps before becoming a law Bills must be signed by the President Most bills do not survive the process
70 Non-legislative powers Constituent Participation in the amending process of the Constitution Proposing alteration but Congress does not have the authority to make fundamental changes
71 Judicial Organization and establishment of the federal court system Judicial power of the U.S. is vested in one Supreme Court and in inferior courts Number of courts and judges determined by the Congress
72 Judicial Impeachment Means to charge a government official with «Treason, Bribery or other high Crimes and Misdemeanors» and bring him or her before Congress to determine guilt House votes on whether the accused ought to be impeached (simple majority) Senate votes whether to convict or remove the person (two-third third majority) Exercised twice: in 1867 (President Andrew Johnson) and in 1998 (President Bill Clinton)
73 Executive Special power of the Senate Approving or disapproving appointments of the President with top executive officers, ambassadors and federal judges (majority) Making treaties (two-thirds thirds vote) Not very often exercised
74 Investigative «Inquisitorial power», control over administration Empowers the investigation of judicial branch, executive branch activities and of economic, social and political conditions Inquiries may be directed at Securing information about draft legislation Shaping governmental policy Holding the executive and administrative units to rigid accountability
75 Taxation Other powers Regulation of commerce Postal power Declaration and termination of war
76 Objectives of the powers of Congress Improve the efficiency, economy and effectiveness of governmental operations Detect and prevent poor administration, waste, abuse or illegal and unconstitutional conduct Protects civil liberties, constitutional rights, and legislative harmony Ensure that executive policies reflect the public interest Congress : «the voice of the people» Can paralyse the President
77 Limitation of powers of Congress System of checks and balances which denies Congress sovereignty in the field of legislation One house of Congress balances and checks the other in that bills must pass both. The Congress has the power to raise money through taxes and to allocate that money to government programs. But when implementing laws, the president and executive departments control the way these funds are used by setting administrative rules that interpret the language of federal law.
78 Limitation of powers of Congress If a citizen challenges an Act of Congress the Supreme Court can declare the Act unconstitutional. Reserved powers of the State Section 9 of Article I of the Constitution imposes some prohibitions upon Congress The Privilege of the Writ of Habeas Corpus shall not be suspended, unless when in Cases of Rebellion or Invasion the public safety may require it. In the past years people have directed that the national government assume more powers
79 The two party system in Congress Origins Emerged in the early 1800s with the Federalists and the Jeffersonian Republicans. Today : Democrats and Republicans
80 The two party system The Democrats want to unite : organised labor the poor members of racial minorities liberal upper-middle class
81 The two party system The Republicans appeal to : Business upper upper-middle middle- and upper class groups in the private sector social conservatives
82 Reasons Absence of the third party representation Voters consider third party candidates as a wasted vote Third party prospects are also hampered by America s single-member-district Separation between the State and religion
83 External influences Legislator s Constituency Constituents : members of the district from which an official is elected Members of Congress expect that the views of their constituents will influence the decisions of legislators
84 Interest groups External influences They have some connection to constituents They want to influence the congressional process by fusing private goals with public policies They try to have direct contact with those who make decisions They use lobbying, publicity campaigns
85 Party discipline Internal influences Leaders have strong influence over the behavior of their party members Party unity is greater in the House than in the Senate Party unity is based on ideology and backgrounds Party leaders have some resources at their disposal : Committee assignments Access to the floor the whip system the logrolling
86 Internal influences Presidency The most important influence Three different tools The presidential veto Article I, Section 7, permits the president to reject them through use of the presidential veto, which is a power that gives the chief executive ten days to reject bill.
87 Internal influences Executive privilege When the president withholds military and diplomatic information from Congress on the grounds that such information would compromise the separation of powers doctrine In 1974, justices rebuked Nixon who wanted to use executive privilege as a reason for not cooperating in the Watergate Affair Executive order Presidential actions that direct government activity, have the effect of law, and remain in use unless overruled by the SU courts, negated by Congress, or rescinded by the president
88 Congressional Paradox Voters tend to love their congressional representative Voters tend to hate and distrust Congress as an institution Members of Congress have to Be national law/policy makers Represent the needs/interests of their constituents i.e., military base closings, highway bills, etc.
89 How Members Make Decisions Interest Groups Colleagues Caucuses Representative Party Constituents Staff Political Action Committees
90 Congress and the President Especially since the 1930s, the president has seemed to be more powerful than Congress. However, Congress retains several key powers vis-a-vis the president: funding powers oversight impeachment/removal.
91
92 Congressional Paradox Voters tend to love their congressional representative Voters tend to hate and distrust Congress as an institution Members of Congress have to Be national law/policy makers Represent the needs/interests of their constituents i.e., military base closings, highway bills, etc.
93 Spend Money Regulate Commerce Taxation Create Powers of Courts Congress Declare Lawmaking War Make all laws "necessary and proper" to carrying out the enumerated powers
94 Powers of Congress The most important constitutional power of Congress is the power to make laws. This power is shared by the House and the Senate. In order to become a law, a bill must be passed by both the House and the Senate.
95 Representation Congress is older, better educated, whiter, and richer than most of us; however, great strides have been made in electing a more diverse Congress. Can a man represent a woman? Can a white person adequately represent the views of a black person?
96 The Representational Role of Members of Congress How should an elected official represent his/her constituents? Trustee-- --representatives use their own best judgment Delegate--representatives vote the way their constituents want them to Politico--representatives act as trustee or delegate depending on the issue
97 Committees Congress in its committee rooms is Congress at work. - Woodrow Wilson
98 Lawmaking Only a member of the House or Senate may introduce a bill but anyone can write a bill. Over 9,000 bills are proposed and fewer than 5 to 10% are enacted. Most bills originate in the executive branch. A bill must survive three stages to become a law: committees, the floor, and the conference committee. A bill can die at any stage.
99 How Members Make Decisions It is rare for a legislator to disregard strong wishes of constituents, particularly on hot button issues or those contentious issues that get a lot of media attention. Deciding how the voters feel is not possible. The perceptions of the representative are important since he/she cannot really know how all the constituents feel about an issue. If constituents have little knowledge or interest in an issue, the legislator often makes an autonomous decision.
100 Congressional Oversight of the Executive Branch Congress has the power to review the actions of the executive branch Congressional oversight is used to ensure that the bureaucracy is enforcing and interpreting laws the way Congress intended.
101 Continuity and Change The framers of the U.S Constitution placed Congress at the center of the government. In the early years of the republic, Congress held the bulk of power. Today, the presidency has become quite powerful particularly since FDR. Congress now generally responds to executive branch legislative proposals. The face of Congress is changing as women and minorities have achieved seats.
102 Powers of Congress Expressed Implied Non- Legislative
103 Expressed Powers Power to Tax Power to Borrow Commerce Power Currency Power Bankruptcy Foreign Relations War Power Naturalization Postal Power Copyrights/Patents Power over Territories Judicial Powers
104 Implied Powers Congress shall have the power to do what is Necessary and Proper for carrying out its Expressed Powers. (aka: Elastic Clause or Necessary & Proper Clause) Examples: set up a National Bank, purchase land to use as a territory
105 Non-Legislative Powers Constitutional Amendments (2/3 vote in each house or call a National Convention) Electoral Duties(decide on Prez. If no candidate gets a majority of electoral votes) Executive Powers (Senate is to confirm appointments & treaties) Impeachment (House investigates & votes on Articles of Impeachment Senate conducts trial)
106 Non-Legislative Powers (continued) Investigatory Power Congress may investigate matters related to its legislative powers. 1. To gather information useful to Congress 1. To oversee operations of the executive branch 2. To focus public attention on an issue 3. To expose questionable activities of public officials 4. To promote the interests of some members of Congress
107 Congress What is the primary function of Congress? Although there are many functions the primary function is the consideration of proposals to become law. Members of Congress, either representatives or senators, may introduce legislative proposals for consideration. These legislative proposals are referred to as "bills". Designations for bills HR# House of Representatives S # # is the chronological order the bill was introduced. Senate # is the chronological order the bill was introduced. Joint Resolution HJ Res # SJ Res # Concurrent Resolution H Con Res # S Con Res # Resolution H Res # S Res #
108 Congress Once a bill has been introduced into one house of Congress it will be considered for adoption. In order to become a law the bill must receive the approval of a majority vote in each house. Furthermore, the bill has to have been approved with the identical language. Bills that have passed both houses with the identical language will be presented to the president for further action. Bills, which do not receive majority approval in both houses, will be terminated at the end of the Congress. The proposal may be reintroduced at the beginning of the new Congress where it will receive a new bill designation.
109 Congress Bills that have passed both houses with the identical language and have been signed by the president will become a public law. HR 241 PL Public Law 109 th Congress The 1 st law passed in the 109 th Congress
110 Let s Review
111 United States Congress
112 Key Differences House Initiate revenue bills 2-year term 435 Formal Specialists Tax policy Senate advise and consent 6-year term 100 Relaxed Generalists Foreign policy
113 THE UNITED STATES CONGRESS
Chapter 5 - The Organization of Congress
Congressional Membership - Section 1 Chapter 5 - The Organization of Congress Introduction The Founders did not intend to make Congress a privileged group. They did intend to make the legislative branch
More informationChapter 5: Congress: The Legislative Branch
Chapter 5: Congress: The Legislative Branch Section 1: Congress Section 2: The Powers of Congress Section 3: The House of Representatives Section 4: The Senate Section 5: Congress at Work Congress Main
More informationCHAPTER 5: CONGRESS: THE LEGISLATIVE BRANCH
CHAPTER 5: CONGRESS: THE LEGISLATIVE BRANCH 1 Section 1: Congress Section 2: The Powers of Congress Section 3: The House of Representative Section 4: The Senate Section 5: Congress At Work SECTION 1: CONGRESS
More informationThe Legislative Branch
The Legislative Branch What you need to know Differences between the House of Representatives and the Senate The legislative process Influence of lobbyists How a bill becomes a law The National Legislature
More informationCIS Political Science Chapter 11. Legislative Branch: Congress. Mr. Makela. St. Clair High School. University of Minnesota
CIS Political Science Chapter 11 Legislative Branch: Congress Mr. Makela St. Clair High School University of Minnesota The Origin and Powers of Congress Bicameral problems w/ Representation (Great Compromise)
More informationThe Legislative Branch
The Legislative Branch United States Congress bicameral legislature House of Representatives 435 members 2 year terms smaller constituencies(congressional districts) apportionment Census Department Information
More informationCONGRESS. Chapter 7. O Connor and Sabato American Government: Continuity and Change
CONGRESS Chapter 7 O Connor and Sabato American Government: Continuity and Change CONGRESS In this chapter we will cover Roots of the Legislative Branch The Constitution and the Legislative Branch Apportionment
More informationObjectives. ! Compare the Constitutional requirements of the House and Senate.
Congress Objectives! Compare the Constitutional requirements of the House and Senate.! List the roles of Congressmen.! Describe the compensation of Congressmen. Background! The Constitution created a bicameral
More informationName: Class: Date: 5., a self-governing possession of the United States, is represented by a nonvoting resident commissioner.
1. A refers to a Congress consisting of two chambers. a. bicameral judiciary b. bicameral legislature c. bicameral cabinet d. bipartisan filibuster e. bipartisan caucus 2. In the context of the bicameral
More information1. States must meet certain requirements in drawing district boundaries. Identify one of these requirements.
Multiple Choice 1. States must meet certain requirements in drawing district boundaries. Identify one of these requirements. a. A person's vote in the largest district of a state must have only half the
More informationPurpose of Congress. Make laws governing the nation
Basics of Congress Purpose of Congress Make laws governing the nation Framers considered the legislative branch to be the most powerful A member from either chamber may begin the legislative process (excluding
More informationUnit: The Legislative Branch
- two houses. Name: Date: Period: Unit: The Legislative Branch Part One: How Congress is Organized Gerrymandering- to a state into an odd-shaped district for reasons. - people in a representative s district.
More informationThe Constitution and the Legislative Branch of the Government
Chapter 7 Congress The Constitution and the Legislative Branch of the Government o Article I describes structure of Congress n Bicameral legislature o Divided into two houses o Each state sends two Senators
More informationThe Legislative Branch. Article I Congress
The Legislative Branch Article I Congress Terms and Sessions of Congress A term is the length of time between elections in Congress (two years). Each Congressional term consists of two sessions, one during
More informationChapter 11. Congress. What is Congress main job?
Chapter 11 Congress What is Congress main job? The Constitution and the Legislative Branch of the Government o Article I describes structure of Congress n Bicameral legislature o Divided into two houses
More informationChapter 12: Congress. American Democracy Now, 4/e
Chapter 12: Congress American Democracy Now, 4/e Congress Where Do You Stand? How would you rate the overall performance of Congress today? a. Favorably b. Unfavorably c. Neither favorably nor unfavorably
More informationThe Legislative Branch: The Reach of Congress (2008)
The Legislative Branch: The Reach of Congress (2008) The Legislative Branch: The Reach of Congress (The following article is taken from the U.S. Department of State publication, Outline of U.S. Government.)
More informationCongress A. Carafiello
Congress A. Carafiello Essential Questions Why does the Constitution divide power between the two houses of Congress? What is a term of Congress? What are Congressional sessions? What benefits to members
More informationChapter 7. Congress. American Government 2006 Edition To accompany Comprehensive, Alternate, Texas, and Essentials Editions O Connor and Sabato
Chapter 7 Congress American Government 2006 Edition To accompany Comprehensive, Alternate, Texas, and Essentials Editions O Connor and Sabato The Constitution and the Legislative Branch of the Government
More informationFunctions of Congress
Functions of Congress Make laws Represent people Perform oversight Help constituents Educate the public Powers of Congress 1 Congressional Powers Legislative Powers Power to Tax Power to Borrow Regulate
More informationThe Legislative Branch and Domestic Policy. POLS 103 Unit 2 Week 7-8
The Legislative Branch and Domestic Policy POLS 103 Unit 2 Week 7-8 The Institutional Design of Congress Unit 2 BICAMERAL Legislature! The House of Representatives Elected Via Popular vote. 2 year term
More information3 BRANCHES OF GOVERNMENT
3 BRANCHES OF GOVERNMENT EXECUTIVE BRANCH President, Vice President, Cabinet QUALIFICATIONS Written Qualifications 35 years old Lived in country for 14 years Natural-born citizen Unwritten Qualifications
More informationThe Legislative Branch UNIT 2
The Legislative Branch UNIT 2 I. Congress A. The House of Representatives 1. Size and Terms - 435 members - 2- yr terms - Qualifications: 25 yrs old, citizen for 7 yrs, resident of state A. The House of
More informationWe the People: The Role of the Citizen in the United States
We the People: The Role of the Citizen in the United States In the United States, the government gets its power to govern from the people. We have a government of the people, by the people, and for the
More informationDecember 15, 2011 A. term B. session each year C. special session D. adjourn
A. term "a two year period of time during which Congress meets" *a period of time that elected officials hold office B. session period of time each year that Congress assembles and conducts business--start
More informationCongress general info
Congress Congress general info Founders believed Congress served their local constituents, but more importantly, the nation Article I-structure, powers, and operation Bicameral- House & Senate (reflected
More information4) Once every decade, the Constitution requires that the population be counted. This is called the 4)
MULTIPLE CHOICE. Choose the one alternative that best completes the statement or answers the question. 1) The Founders intended that the House of Representatives be 1) A) professional. B) electorally insulated.
More informationThe Legislative Branch
The Legislative Branch Congress Legislative Branch of National Government Established in Article I of the Constitution Makes laws, ratifies treaties, impeachment, confirm presidential appointments, controls
More informationTopic 4: Congress Section 1
Topic 4: Congress Section 1 Introduction Why does the Constitution establish a bicameral legislature? Historically, it is modeled on the two houses of the British Parliament and colonial legislatures.
More informationCongress. AP US Government Spring 2017
Congress AP US Government Spring 2017 Congressional Elections: House vs Senate Constituent: citizen who is represented by a member of Congress House is closer to constitutents House members come from individual
More information[ 4.1 ] National Legislature Overview
[ 4.1 ] National Legislature Overview [ 4.1 ] National Legislature Overview Key Terms bills, floor consideration oversight function term session convenes adjourns recess prorogue special session franking
More information4.1a- The Powers of Congress
4.1a- The Powers of Congress In 1789, Federal Hall in New York City became the home of the first U.S. Congress. By 1790, Congress moved to the new capital of Philadelphia. At its creation in 1789, the
More informationThe Legislative Branch
The Legislative Branch Representative body Congress Law-making body Creating a Bi-Cameral Legislature Virginia Plan New Jersey Plan Connecticut Compromise Differences Between The Chambers HOUSE SENATE
More informationOrganization of Congress
Organization of Congress The framers of the Constitution wanted Congress to be the central fulcrum of the Federal government. U.S. Congress is a bicameral legislature. 1. Senate 2. House of Representatives
More informationConstitution of the United States. Article. I.
Constitution of the United States Article. I. Section. 1. All legislative Powers herein granted shall be vested in a Congress of the United States, which shall consist of a Senate and House of Representatives.
More informationWe the People of the United States,
We the People of the United States, in Order to form a more perfect Union, establish Justice, insure domestic Tranquility, provide for the common defence, promote the general Welfare, and secure the Blessings
More informationChapter Ten: The Congress
Chapter Ten: The Congress Learning Outcomes 1. Describe the various roles played by Congress and the constitutional basis of its powers. 2. Explain some of the differences between the House and the Senate
More informationOrganization. -Great Compromise of branches of government Bicameral legislature. -House. -Senate Upper house
Organization -Great Compromise of 1787 3 branches of government Bicameral legislature -House Lower house -Senate Upper house The House of Representatives is based on population The Senate is based on equal
More informationThe Legislative Branch
Chapter 5 The Legislative Branch Section 1: Section 2: Section 3: Section 4: The Senate and the House of Representatives How Congress Is Organized The Powers of Congress How a Bill Becomes a Law Section
More informationUNIT 5-1 CONGRESS AND THE PRESIDENCY
UNIT 5-1 CONGRESS AND THE PRESIDENCY STRUCTURE OF CONGRESS House of Representatives Senate Membership 435 members (apportioned by population) 100 members (two from each state) Term of office 2 years; entire
More informationTHE LEGISLATIVE BRANCH. POWERS OF CONGRESS Article I Section 8. AI, S8, Clause 18: Necessary and Proper Clause
THE LEGISLATIVE BRANCH POWERS OF CONGRESS Article I Section 8. AI, S8, Clause 18: Necessary and Proper Clause STRUCTURE OF CONGRESS Originally, the Constitution provided for members of the House of Representatives
More informationU.S. Government. The Constitution of the United States. Tuesday, September 23, 14
U.S. Government The Constitution of the United States Background The Constitution of the United States was created during the Spring and Summer of 1787. The Framers(the people who attended the convention)
More informationChapter 5 The Organization of Congress. Section 1 Congressional Membership
Chapter 5 The Organization of Congress Section 1 Congressional Membership Congressional Sessions Each term of Congress has two sessions. Each session lasts until Congress votes to adjourn. Membership of
More informationUS Constitution. Articles I-VII
US Constitution Articles I-VII Quick Questions What is the Constitution? What is the Preamble? What are the Articles and their purpose? Preamble Six Purposes are Listed -> What are they? We the people
More informationThe Legislative Branch C H A P T E R S 2 A N D 7 E S S E N T I A L S O F A M E R I C A N G O V E R N M E N T R O O T S A N D R E F O R M
The Legislative Branch C H A P T E R S 2 A N D 7 E S S E N T I A L S O F A M E R I C A N G O V E R N M E N T R O O T S A N D R E F O R M M S. CAMPBELL A P GOVERNMENT EDGREN HIGH SCHOOL Imagine for a moment
More informationTHE CONSTITUTION OF THE UNITED STATES
THE CONSTITUTION OF THE UNITED STATES Article I Legislative Branch Section 1 Congress Congress will make all laws Divided into 2 houses Senate (upper house) House (lower house) Section 2 House of Reps
More informationArticle I: The Legislature (Congress)
The Constitution Article I: The Legislature (Congress) House of Representatives # of representatives is based on the population of each state- Census every 10 years Must be at least 25 years old, a citizen
More informationThe Legislative Branch. Article I Congress
The Legislative Branch Article I Congress Essential Question EQ: How does Article I of the US Constitution define and enable the administration of legislative powers? Standards Content Standard 2: The
More informationWhy Was Congress Created?
Chapter 13: Congress Why Was Congress Created? Fear that power in the hands of a single individual would be abused and the people would suffer. The national legislative power that was vested in Congress
More informationState and Local Government in the United States
State and Local Government in the United States www.whitehouse.gov The United States have three levels of government; a federal level, a state level and a local level. Each one has its own features and
More informationName Class Period. MAIN IDEA PACKET: Government Institutions AMERICAN GOVERNMENT CHAPTERS 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15 & 18
Name Class Period UNIT 4 MAIN IDEA PACKET: Government Institutions AMERICAN GOVERNMENT CHAPTERS 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15 & 18 CHAPTER 10 CONGRESS Chapter 10 Section 1: The National Legislature Congress,
More informationState Legislatures. State & Local Government. Ch. 7
State Legislatures State & Local Government Ch. 7 Legislature in some states is the dominant branch of govt. Highlights State Legislatures have 4 clear functions: 1. Making laws 2. Represent their constituents
More informationSemester One Exam American Government
Semester One Exam American Government Directions: Please do not write on the exam! Mark all of your answers on the scantron provided. There are two parts to the exam, a scantron portion as well as two
More informationTEACHING AMERICAN HISTORY PROJECT The Constitution, Article I Kyra Kasperson
TEACHING AMERICAN HISTORY PROJECT The Constitution, Article I Kyra Kasperson Grade 7 Length of class period 42 minutes Inquiry What is the composition of the legislative branch under the Constitution and
More informationCongress. The Backbone of Democracy
Congress The Backbone of Democracy What is Congress? Senate, House 535 Members Committees 20 in the House, 17 in the Senate This body makes the laws of the land what falls into this category? Salary: $174,00
More informationAP US GOVERNMENT: CHAPTER 11 CONGRESS: THE PEOPLE S BRANCH
AP US GOVERNMENT: CHAPTER 11 CONGRESS: THE PEOPLE S BRANCH The US Congress is one of the world s most representative and democratic institutions, admired for its openness and deliberateness. On the other
More information1. What are the requirements for becoming a Representative? How long do they serve?
20 th /Raffel Constitution Study Questions Directions: To complete these questions, you need to read an online version of the constitution, available from the class website (select Online Constitution
More informationThe Structure and Functions of the Government
The Structure and Functions of the Government The United States of America is a democratic republic or an indirect government. In definition, it means that when the people vote, they give the power to
More informationAP US Government and Politics US Constitution Study
AP US Government and Politics US Constitution Study 1. How many Articles are in the US Constitution? 2. How many amendments have been added to the US Constitution? 3. Are amendments considered part of
More informationUnit 4 The Legislative Branch Study Guide Explain all the following: 1. Bi-Cameral 2. Congress: - Office - term - Number of members - Selection -
Unit 4 The Legislative Branch Study Guide Explain all the following: 1. Bi-Cameral 2. Congress: - Office - term - Number of members - Selection - Requirements 3. 17 th Amendment 4. 20 th amendment 5. 27
More informationAMERICAN GOVERNMENT CHAPTER 10 GUIDED NOTES. is the of the. Its is to. Congress, then, is charged with the most : that of translating the
AMERICAN GOVERNMENT CHAPTER 10 GUIDED NOTES NAME PERIOD Chapter 10.1 is the of the. Its is to. Congress, then, is charged with the most : that of translating the public will into. How profoundly important
More informationCHAPTER 11 POWERS OF CONGRESS AND CHAPTER 12 CONGRESS IN ACTION Monster Packet
Mrs. Stafstrom Government NAME: HOUR: CHAPTER 11 POWERS OF CONGRESS AND CHAPTER 12 CONGRESS IN ACTION Monster Packet Chapter 11 Powers of Congress 1. The Expressed Powers: Money and Commerce a) Definitions
More informationCongress The National Legislature Terms and Session of Congress The House of Representatives Congressional Elections Districts
1 2 Congress Chapter 10 Article I of the US Constitution The National Legislature Bicameralism Congress consists of two houses (Bicameral), the House of Representatives and the Senate The British Parliament
More informationSTRUCTURE, POWERS, AND ROLES OF CONGRESS
American Government Semester 1, Chapter 4 STRUCTURE, POWERS, AND ROLES OF CONGRESS STRUCTURE In our government, Congress has two parts, or houses. This type of legislature is known as bicameral. One half
More informationCongress has three major functions: lawmaking, representation, and oversight.
Unit 5: Congress A legislature is the law-making body of a government. The United States Congress is a bicameral legislature that is, one consisting of two chambers: the House of Representatives and the
More informationLESSON S OBJECTIVES Explain the powers that the const. Gives to congress Explain the enumerated powers of congress, the necessary and proper and
Lesson 12.2 LESSON S OBJECTIVES Explain the powers that the const. Gives to congress Explain the enumerated powers of congress, the necessary and proper and general welfare clauses, and the reason for
More informationSocial Studies Curriculum High School
Mission Statement: American Government The Social Studies Department of Alton High School is committed to the following; assisting students in mastering and appreciating the principles of government, preparing
More informationChapter 13 Congress. Congress. Know the terms/names (especially with FRQs) House of Representatives. Senate
Chapter 13 Congress Know the terms/names (especially with FRQs) Congress House of Representatives Senate Almost always referred to as Congress A term of Congress is 2 years Term begins on January 3 rd
More informationChapter 4: The Legislative Branch
Chapter 4: The Legislative Branch United States Government Fall, 2017 In republican government, the legislative authority necessarily predominates. The remedy for this inconveniency is to divide the legislature
More informationThe Legislative Branch. Makin Law Since 1789
The Legislative Branch Makin Law Since 1789 A Bicameral Congress Three Reasons 1. Historical the British Parliament had 2 houses since the 1300 s 2. Practical compromise between the Virginia Plan and the
More informationDETAILED CODE DESCRIPTIONS FOR MEMBER DATA
FORMAT SUMMARY FOR MEMBER DATA Variable Congress Office Identification number Name (Last, First, Middle) District/class State (postal abbr.) State code (ICPSR) Party (1 letter abbr.) Party code Chamber
More informationARTICLE 1 - THE LEGISLATIVE BRANCH DAY 2
ARTICLE 1 - THE LEGISLATIVE BRANCH DAY 2 THE U.S. CONGRESS Article I, Section 1: Creates Congress Bicameral (Great Compromise) Senate - Upper 100 members 6 years House - Lower 435 2 years Reapportioned
More informationThe National Legislature Chapter 10 Section 1
The National Legislature Chapter 10 Section 1 Two Houses of Congress The Constitution creates a bicameral legislature for three reasons: Historical Practical Theoretical Historical The British Parliament
More informationThe Legislative Branch. How does the legislature work to represent the citizens?
The Legislative Branch How does the legislature work to represent the citizens? Congress Senate House of Representatives How Congress is Organized House and Senate Terms of Congress Congress- the national
More informationBranch, Section 1) What is the job of the Legislative Branch? Where are the powers of Congress outlined in the Constitution?
Civics Unit 3 (Chapter 5, the Legislative Branch) I. The Senate and the H. of R. (Chapter 5 The Legislative Branch, Section 1) What is the job of the Legislative Branch? Where are the powers of Congress
More informationCh. 4 The Congress. Ch. 4 The Congress. Ch. 4 The Congress. Ch. 4 The Congress. The National Legislature
The National Legislature The National Legislature is known as Congress and is made up of two chambers the House of Representatives & the Term - The length of time elected officials serve in office before
More informationObjectives. 1. Warm-Up. 2. National/State Legislatures Worksheet. 3. Congressional Membership Notes. 4. Video Clip US Congress. 5.
Warm-Up 1. What does bicameral mean? 2. Why did the Framers choose to have a two-house legislature? 3. Which house do you think is most important and why? Objectives Describe the bicameral structure and
More informationUnit V Test Congress and the President Practice Test
Unit V Test Congress and the President Practice Test 1. The "revolving door" involves: (A) members of Congress who travel extensively between Washington D.C. and their home states (B) diplomats who engage
More informationA) A Congressman wants to be reelected, so he will vote in a way that will garner his constituents' support. E) I, II, and III B) pork barreling
1. In the original Constitution, the House of Representatives was considered more responsive than the Senate to public opinion for which of the following reasons? I. Each representative served fewer constituents
More informationAP Government & Politics CH. 11 & 13 Unit Exam b. Joint d. pork barrel
AP Government & Politics CH. 11 & 13 Unit Exam 1. committees exist in both the House and Senate, may be temporary or permanent, and usually have a focused responsibility. a. Conference d. Standing b. Joint
More informationChapter 11: Powers of Congress Section 1
Chapter 11: Powers of Congress Section 1 Objectives 1. Describe the three types of powers delegated to Congress. 2. Analyze the importance of the commerce power. 3. Summarize key points relating to the
More informationThe US Constitution. Articles of the Constitution
The US Constitution Articles of the Constitution Article I delegates all legislative power to the bicameral Congress. The two chambers differ in the qualifications required of their members, the term of
More informationChapter 10: Congress
Chapter 10: Congress Congress with all of its faults is the most representative body in the land. It reflects however imperfectly the bigness and diversity of America. It responds however imperfectly to
More informationThe Constitution: WHO WE ARE (and how it came to be)
The Constitution: WHO WE ARE (and how it came to be) WHERE ARE WE GOING? Examine your home grown Constitutions Discuss the problems doing it from scratch Look at the First Government of the United States
More informationRequirement House Senate. Minimum Age 25 years 30 years Length of US Citizenship 7 years 9 years Must be a resident of the state where elected.
#1 Congress Established by Article I of the Constitution, the Legislative Branch consists of the House of Representatives and the Senate, which together form the United States Congress. The Constitution
More informationThe Legislative Branch Chapter 10, 11, 12
The Legislative Branch Chapter 10, 11, 12 Though the President is Commander in Chief, Congress is his commander. This is not a Government of kings, but a Government of the people, and Congress is the people.
More informationName: Chp. 10: Congress. Notes Chp. 10: Congress 1
Name: Date: Period: Chp 10: Congress Notes Chp 10: Congress 1 Objectives Students will be able to: 1 Explain why the Constitution provides for a bicameral Congress 2 Describe the size and the elective
More informationChapter 6 Congress 9/28/2015. Roots of the U.S. Congress 6.1. Bicameral legislature. TABLE 6.1 What are the powers of Congress? 6.
Chapter 6 Congress Roots of the U.S. Congress 6.1 Bicameral legislature House Representatives based on population Two-year term Senate Two from each state Six-year term TABLE 6.1 What are the powers of
More informationUnited States Government End of Course Exam Review
United States Government End of Course Exam Review Enlightenment Concepts Natural rights- rights that all individuals are born with such as life, liberty, and property. Sovereignty- the idea that the people
More informationCONGRESS. Unit Three- AA
CONGRESS Unit Three- AA * The National Legislature Congress s meetings are held in periods known as terms, and each term lasts for two years. Each of these two year terms is numbered consecutively with
More informationConstitution Cheat Sheet
Constitution Cheat Sheet The Preamble to the Constitution has no force in law; instead, it establishes the "Why" of the Constitution. Why is this document in existence? It reflects the desires of the Framers
More informationExceptions to Symmetry. Congress: The Legislative Branch. In comparative perspective, Congress is unusual.
Congress: The Legislative Branch In comparative perspective, Congress is unusual. Most legislatures, particularly in parliamentary systems, are relatively weak. Congress exhibits symmetric bicameralism:
More informationRabalais AP Government Review Vocabulary List
Rabalais AP Government Review Vocabulary List Chapter 2 The Constitution Democracy Government by the people, both directly or indirectly, with free and frequent elections. Direct democracy Government in
More informationThe Federalist, No. 51
The Legislative Branch Fall, 2015 In republican government, the legislative authority necessarily predominates. The remedy for this inconveniency is to divide the legislature into different branches; and
More information[ 3.1 ] An Overview of the Constitution
[ 3.1 ] An Overview of the Constitution [ 3.1 ] An Overview of the Constitution Learning Objectives Understand the basic outline of the Constitution. Understand the basic principles of the Constitution:
More informationAll indirect taxes must be levied at the same rate in all parts of the country Cannot taxes churches. Limits on The Taxing Power
3 Types of Congressional Powers granted by the Constitution Expressed Powers Explicitly written in the Constitution Implied Powers Reasonably deducted from the expressed powers Inherent Powers By creating
More informationChapter 11: Powers of Congress Section 4
Chapter 11: Powers of Congress Section 4 Objectives 1. Describe the role of Congress in amending the Constitution and its electoral duties. 2. Describe the power of Congress to impeach, and summarize presidential
More informationCNEC AP U.S. Government and Politics Summer CONSTITUTION REVIEW AND GUIDE: Study Guide
CNEC AP U.S. Government and Politics Summer CONSTITUTION REVIEW AND GUIDE: Study Guide THE BIRTH OF THE CONSTITUTION The Articles of Confederation Confederation: Constitution: Commerce: 2. What was the
More informationOne useless man is a shame, two is a law firm, three or more is congress. -John Adams
One useless man is a shame, two is a law firm, three or more is congress. -John Adams Legislate: turn public will into public policy (laws) Help their constituents deal with the federal bureaucracy (Veterans
More informationUNIT 3: THE LEGISLATIVE BRANCH
UNIT 3: THE LEGISLATIVE BRANCH POWERS OF THE LEGISLATIVE BRANCH E X P R E S S E D OR IMPLIED EXPRESSED POWERS Powers that are specifically listed in the Constitution (Article 1 Section 8) Coin money Impeach
More information