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Senate

Definition

The Senate is one of the two chambers of Congress, consisting of 100 senators (two from each state). Senators are elected by the people and serve six-year terms. The Senate has the power to approve or reject legislation proposed by the House of Representatives.

Analogy

Think of the Senate as a basketball team. Each state gets two players on the team, regardless of their population size. Just like in a game, each player (senator) has an equal say and can make important decisions that impact the outcome.

Related terms

House of Representatives: The other chamber of Congress with 435 members representing districts based on population.

Filibuster: A tactic used by senators to delay or block a vote on a bill by speaking for an extended period.

Majority Leader: The leader of the political party with the most seats in the Senate who helps set the legislative agenda.

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AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.