All Flashcards
What is the main function of the House of Representatives?
To represent the population of each state.
What is the main function of the Senate?
To represent the states equally.
What role does Congress have in the budget process?
Congress has the power to pass the federal budget.
What role does Congress have in declaring war?
Congress has the power to declare war.
What is the role of congressional districts?
To define the area from which a House representative is elected.
House vs. Senate: Basis of representation?
House: Population | Senate: Equal (2 per state)
House vs. Senate: Term length?
House: 2 years | Senate: 6 years
House vs. Senate: Number of members?
House: 435 | Senate: 100
House vs. Senate: Qualifications (age)?
House: 25 years | Senate: 30 years
House vs. Senate: Rules?
House: More rules | Senate: Fewer rules
House vs. Senate: Deliberation?
House: Less deliberative | Senate: More deliberative
Cause/Effect: Census every 10 years.
Cause: Population changes. Effect: Reapportionment of House seats.
Cause/Effect: Gerrymandering.
Cause: Partisan control of state legislatures. Effect: Less competitive elections, incumbency advantage.
Cause/Effect: Longer Senate terms.
Cause: Desire for stability and deliberation. Effect: Senators may be less responsive to short-term public opinion.