Congress

Definition

Congress refers to either an individual legislative body or a collective term for two separate legislative bodies in some countries, such as in Australia or United States. In these countries, Congress consists of two chambers: the Senate and the House of Representatives.

Related terms

Legislative Branch:

This term refers to the branch of government responsible for making laws. In countries with a congressional system, such as the United States, Congress represents the legislative branch.

Bicameral Legislature:

A bicameral legislature consists of two separate chambers or houses. Examples include the U.S. Congress (House of Representatives and Senate) and British Parliament (House of Commons and House of Lords).

Majority Party:

The majority party in Congress refers to the political party that holds more than half of the seats in either chamber. They have more influence over legislation and can control committee assignments.