Congress

Definition

Congress is a legislative body that holds the authority to create, amend, and repeal laws within a political system. It typically consists of two houses or chambers and plays a crucial role in shaping public policy, representing citizens' interests, and overseeing the executive branch's actions.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Congress is responsible for approving the federal budget, which outlines government spending and revenue generation.
2. The two chambers of Congress—usually a lower house (House of Representatives) and an upper house (Senate)—have distinct powers and responsibilities, contributing to a system of checks and balances.
3. Members of Congress are elected representatives who serve fixed terms; House members serve two-year terms while Senators serve six-year terms.
4. Congress holds the authority to declare war, making it essential for national defense and military engagement decisions.
5. The relationship between Congress and the executive branch can vary significantly based on party control, influencing legislative outcomes and governance.

Review Questions

• How does Congress influence the balance of power within the government?
  • Congress plays a vital role in maintaining the balance of power through its legislative authority. By creating laws and overseeing the executive branch, Congress ensures that no single branch dominates governance. This is achieved through checks and balances, where Congress can investigate executive actions, approve budgets, and even impeach officials if necessary.
• Discuss the implications of bicameralism in Congress on the lawmaking process.
  • Bicameralism introduces complexity into the lawmaking process as legislation must be approved by both chambers. This structure requires collaboration and negotiation between differing political views within the House and Senate. As a result, it can lead to more thorough debate and consideration of proposed laws but can also result in gridlock if consensus is not reached.
• Evaluate the impact of Congressional elections on policy-making and governance in the context of changing political landscapes.
  • Congressional elections significantly impact policy-making as they determine which party controls the chambers. Changes in control can lead to shifts in legislative priorities and governance styles. For instance, a party with a majority may push through its agenda more effectively, whereas divided control might result in compromise or gridlock, affecting how laws are created or amended in response to emerging national issues.

Related terms

Legislation: The process of proposing, drafting, and enacting laws by Congress.

Bicameralism: The practice of having two separate chambers within a legislative body, such as the Senate and the House of Representatives.

Checks and Balances: A system that ensures no single branch of government becomes too powerful, allowing Congress to oversee and limit executive actions.