How Congress is built
Congress is the first branch described in the Constitution, and its two chambers were designed to work differently.
House and Senate
The House of Representatives has 435 voting members, apportioned among the states by population after each ten-year census. Representatives serve two-year terms and must be at least 25 years old. The Senate has 100 members, two per state, serving six-year terms with about one-third elected every two years; senators must be at least 30.
Different roles
Revenue bills must start in the House, and the House alone can impeach federal officials. The Senate holds impeachment trials, confirms presidential appointments such as judges and cabinet members, and ratifies treaties by a two-thirds vote. Since the 17th Amendment (1913), senators are elected directly by voters instead of by state legislatures.
Enumerated powers
Article I lists Congress's powers, including taxing, borrowing, regulating commerce among the states and with other nations, coining money, declaring war, raising armies, and establishing lower federal courts. The necessary and proper clause lets Congress pass laws to carry out these powers.
Flashcard
A lawmaking body with two chambers
Check your understanding
Which chamber holds the trial when a president is impeached?