October 14, 2025

How Does The Us Congress Function In Government

Q: What is the difference between the House of Representatives and the Senate?

The House has 435 members based on state population, focuses on initiating tax bills, and represents districts with two-year terms. The Senate has 100 members (two per state), handles confirmations and treaties, and provides equal state representation with six-year terms.

Q: How does Congress interact with the President?

Congress passes legislation for presidential approval or veto, controls the federal budget, confirms executive appointments, and can override vetoes or impeach the President. The President can influence Congress through veto power, executive orders, and State of the Union addresses.

Q: What role do congressional committees play?

Committees review bills, hold hearings to gather expert testimony, conduct investigations, and shape policy in specific areas like finance or education. They act as gatekeepers, deciding which legislation advances to the full chamber.

Q: Is Congress the only body that makes laws in the US?

No, while Congress makes federal laws, state legislatures create state laws, and local governments handle municipal regulations. The Constitution divides powers, with federal law supreme in conflicts under the Supremacy Clause.

Explore the structure, powers, and legislative processes of the US Congress, the bicameral body responsible for making federal laws and overseeing the executive branch.

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Overview of the US Congress

The US Congress is the legislative branch of the federal government, established by Article I of the Constitution. It consists of two chambers: the House of Representatives, with 435 members apportioned by population and serving two-year terms, and the Senate, with 100 members (two per state) serving six-year terms. Congress's primary function is to create, debate, and pass federal laws, represent the interests of constituents, and provide oversight of the executive and judicial branches.

Structure and Key Powers

Congress operates on a bicameral system to balance representation and ensure deliberation. The House initiates revenue bills and impeaches officials, while the Senate confirms appointments and ratifies treaties. Enumerated powers include taxing, regulating commerce, declaring war, and coining money. Committees, such as the House Ways and Means or Senate Foreign Relations, specialize in reviewing legislation, conducting hearings, and recommending actions to the full chambers.

The Legislative Process: A Practical Example

Consider a bill to increase funding for national parks. It is introduced in the House, referred to the Natural Resources Committee for review and amendments, then debated and voted on by the full House. If passed, it moves to the Senate, where a similar process occurs, potentially involving filibusters or reconciliation. Both chambers must agree on identical text; differences are resolved in a conference committee. The final bill goes to the President for signature, veto, or pocket veto, with Congress able to override a veto by a two-thirds majority.

Role and Importance in the Government

Congress functions as a check on executive power through oversight hearings, budget control, and impeachment proceedings, upholding the separation of powers. It plays a vital role in democracy by reflecting public will, addressing national issues like healthcare and defense, and adapting laws to societal changes. This system ensures accountability and prevents any single branch from dominating governance.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between the House of Representatives and the Senate?

How does Congress interact with the President?

What role do congressional committees play?

Is Congress the only body that makes laws in the US?