2.2 Structures, Powers, and Functions of Congress

Bicameral Congress: House vs. Senate

Congress is bicameral, split into the House and Senate to balance power. The House (435 members, 2-year terms) is apportioned by state population, has smaller districts, and originates revenue bills. The Senate (100 members, 6-year terms) gives equal representation (2 per state), confirms presidential appointments, and ratifies treaties. This structure reflects the Great Compromise.

Congressional powers and enumerated authority

Article I grants Congress enumerated powers like taxing, spending, declaring war, and regulating commerce, plus the necessary and proper (elastic) clause, enabling implied powers. Congress also holds oversight power to check the executive branch, and each chamber has unique roles: House impeaches, Senate holds impeachment trials and confirms nominees/treaties.

Congressional behavior and constituent influence

Members balance trustee representation (voting their own judgment) with delegate representation (voting constituents' wishes), often blending both as politico. Redistricting and gerrymandering shape district competitiveness, while incumbency advantages (name recognition, franking privilege, fundraising) make reelection easier, contributing to Congress's low turnover despite low approval ratings.

Key terms

Bicameral legislature

A two-chamber legislature; Congress consists of the House of Representatives and the Senate.

Enumerated powers

Powers explicitly granted to Congress in Article I, Section 8, such as taxing, spending, and declaring war.

Necessary and proper (elastic) clause

Constitutional clause allowing Congress to pass laws needed to execute its enumerated powers, creating implied powers.

Trustee vs. Delegate representation

Trustee: votes based on own judgment. Delegate: votes based on constituents' wishes. Politico blends both.

Incumbency advantage

Benefits held by current officeholders (name recognition, franking privilege, fundraising) that boost reelection chances.

Try an AP-style question

Which power belongs only to the Senate?

1. Bringing impeachment charges
2. Choosing a president in a tie
3. Starting revenue bills
4. Confirming presidential appointments