3 Congress Free Online FlashCards

What does it mean that Congress is bicameral?

Congress is the federal government’s legislative branch. It is bicameral, meaning it consists of two chambers: the House of Representatives and the Senate.

How are House seats allocated, and how long do representatives serve?

The House has 435 voting members apportioned among states by population. Representatives serve two-year terms and represent congressional districts.

How is each state represented in the Senate?

The Senate has 100 members, with two senators from each state regardless of population. Senators serve six-year terms.

How do staggered Senate elections support continuity?

Roughly one-third of Senate seats are up for election every two years. Staggered terms help provide continuity.

How do delegate, trustee, and politico representation differ?

A delegate follows constituents’ stated preferences; a trustee uses independent judgment about the public interest; a politico shifts between these approaches by issue.

What do congressional standing committees do?

Standing committees and subcommittees focus on policy areas. They review proposed legislation, hold hearings, and conduct oversight.

What is the difference between a primary and a general election?

In a primary election, parties choose nominees. In a general election, voters choose among candidates.

How do reapportionment and redistricting differ?

Reapportionment redistributes House seats among states; redistricting redraws district boundaries within states.

What usually happens after a member formally introduces a bill?

A member of Congress formally introduces a bill, which is referred to one or more committees for consideration.

What steps may a committee take when reviewing a bill?

A committee may hold hearings, gather information, revise a proposal in a markup, and vote on whether to report it to the full chamber.

What must happen if the House and Senate pass different versions of a bill?

Both chambers must pass identical bill text. If their versions differ, members may negotiate a compromise, which both chambers must approve.

How can Congress overcome a presidential veto?

The president may sign or veto a bill. Congress can override a veto with a two-thirds vote in each chamber.