Congress refers to the legislative branch of the United States federal government, which is responsible for making and passing laws. It is a bicameral institution composed of two separate chambers: the Senate and the House of Representatives.
Senate: The Senate is made up of 100 members, with each state having two senators regardless of its population size. Senators serve staggered six-year terms, with elections taking place every two years for approximately one-third of the seats. The Vice President of the United States serves as the President of the Senate, but can only vote in the event of a tie.
House of Representatives: The House of Representatives consists of 435 members, and the number of representatives for each state is determined by its population. Members of the House, known as representatives or congressmen/women, serve two-year terms. The Speaker of the House, elected by the representatives, presides over the chamber.
The primary function of Congress is to create and pass legislation. Members of Congress propose, debate, and vote on bills that can become federal laws. Congress also has the authority to levy taxes, declare war, approve presidential appointments, and conduct oversight of the executive branch. Additionally, Congress plays a crucial role in the federal budget process, as it has the power to appropriate funds and control government spending.
Congress is an essential component of the system of checks and balances in the United States government. It serves as a representative body that reflects the interests and concerns of the American people and is a key mechanism for shaping national policies and ensuring the functioning of the democratic process.
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