Congressional Powers

Congress holds significant powers that shape the U.S. government and its operations. From levying taxes to declaring war, these powers ensure a balance between federal authority and accountability, impacting everything from the economy to national security. Understanding these roles is crucial for grasping American governance.

1. Power to levy taxes

   • Congress has the authority to impose taxes to generate revenue for government operations.
   • This power is essential for funding public services, infrastructure, and national defense.
   • The Constitution requires that direct taxes be apportioned among the states based on population.

2. Power to borrow money

   • Congress can borrow money on the credit of the United States to meet financial obligations.
   • This power allows the government to manage deficits and fund programs when tax revenues are insufficient.
   • Borrowing is typically done through the issuance of government bonds.

3. Power to regulate commerce

   • Congress regulates interstate and international trade, ensuring a stable economic environment.
   • This power includes the ability to set rules for trade practices and to prevent monopolies.
   • The Commerce Clause has been used to justify a wide range of federal legislation.

4. Power to declare war

   • Only Congress has the authority to declare war, ensuring that military action is a collective decision.
   • This power is a check on the President's ability to engage in military conflicts.
   • Congress can also fund military operations and set the terms for military engagement.

5. Power to raise and support armies

   • Congress is responsible for raising and maintaining armed forces, including the Army, Navy, and Air Force.
   • This power includes establishing military academies and setting military budgets.
   • Congress can also regulate the organization and discipline of the military.

6. Power to coin money

   • Congress has the exclusive authority to mint currency and regulate its value.
   • This power ensures a stable monetary system and prevents states from issuing their own currency.
   • The U.S. Treasury and the Federal Reserve manage the money supply and monetary policy.

7. Power to establish federal courts

   • Congress can create and organize lower federal courts, establishing the judicial system.
   • This power allows Congress to determine the jurisdiction and structure of the federal judiciary.
   • Federal courts handle cases involving federal law, disputes between states, and constitutional issues.

8. Power to make laws

   • Congress has the authority to create legislation on a wide range of issues affecting the nation.
   • This power includes the ability to amend existing laws and respond to societal changes.
   • Legislation must pass both the House of Representatives and the Senate before becoming law.

9. Power of impeachment

   • Congress can impeach federal officials, including the President, for misconduct or violations of law.
   • The House of Representatives has the sole power to impeach, while the Senate conducts the trial.
   • A two-thirds majority in the Senate is required for conviction and removal from office.

10. Power to override presidential vetoes

    • Congress can override a presidential veto with a two-thirds majority vote in both chambers.
    • This power ensures that Congress can enact legislation even if the President disagrees.
    • Overrides are relatively rare, reflecting the need for bipartisan support.

11. Power to confirm presidential appointments

    • The Senate has the authority to confirm or reject presidential nominations for federal positions.
    • This includes Supreme Court justices, cabinet members, and ambassadors.
    • Confirmation hearings allow for scrutiny of nominees' qualifications and backgrounds.

12. Power to ratify treaties

    • The Senate must approve treaties negotiated by the President with a two-thirds vote.
    • This power ensures that international agreements reflect the interests of the nation.
    • Ratification requires collaboration between the executive and legislative branches.

13. Power to propose constitutional amendments

    • Congress can propose amendments to the Constitution with a two-thirds majority in both chambers.
    • This power allows for changes to the Constitution in response to evolving societal needs.
    • Proposed amendments must be ratified by three-fourths of the states to become law.

14. Power to set its own rules and punish members

    • Each chamber of Congress establishes its own rules for operation and conduct.
    • This power includes the ability to discipline members for misconduct, including expulsion.
    • Rules govern debates, voting procedures, and committee operations.

15. Power of the purse (appropriations)

    • Congress controls federal spending and appropriations, determining how government funds are allocated.
    • This power is crucial for funding government programs and services.
    • The "power of the purse" serves as a check on the executive branch's financial authority.