Bicameral LegislatureTwo houses

Upper houseSenate2 members from each state

Lower houseHouse of RepresentativesBased on population

Terms of Congress Term starts Jan. 3rd

Each odd numbered yearLasts 2 yearsEach one numbered111th is in session now

Sessions (meetings)2 each termJan. to Nov. or Dec.

House of Representatives 435 voting members Reps for each state based on populationAdjustments made every 10 yrsAfter census count

Each state has at least 1 Reps serve 2yr terms

Senate 100 members

2 from each state Represents their entire state 6 yr term

Elections are staggeredNo more than 1/3rd at a timeEnsures stability & continuity

Leaders in Congress Both houses

Majority & minority partiesEach have their own leaders

HORLeader- Speaker of the HouseLeader of the majority partyHas a lot of powerGuides legislationLeads floor debatesIn line for pres if anything happens to VP

SenateVP is leader of the SenateOnly votes to break a tie

president pro temporeActs as chairman (leader)Usually is majority party’s most senior member

Committee Work3 types of committee *see chart p.

181 Standing

Permanent Select/Special

TemporaryMeet for a limited timeDeal with special issues

JointMeeting with members of both housesSpecific issues