Congress Flashcards, test questions and answers
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What is Congress?
Congress is the bicameral legislature of the federal government of the United States, and consists of two chambers: the House of Representatives and the Senate. It meets in Washington, D.C., and has power to pass laws, approve presidential appointments, ratify treaties, declare war, manage federal finances, and oversee national security. The U.S Congress is a powerful institution that has many roles in our democracy. It makes laws that affect all Americans from tax policy to immigration to health care reform and its decisions can have a profound impact on people’s lives. Congress also serves as a check on executive branch authority by confirming presidential appointments such as Supreme Court justices or cabinet secretaries; conducting investigations; and approving or rejecting treaties with other countries. And because it is composed of representatives from every state in America regardless of population size it serves as an important voice for all citizens across different regions of the country. The legislative process begins when members introduce bills that they wish to be made into law; these are then sent to committees where they are debated before being voted on by both houses of Congress (the House and Senate). If both approve it with a majority vote, it is sent to the President for his signature or veto (if he chooses not to sign). If he signs it into law then it becomes legally binding; if he vetoes it then Congress can override his veto by voting for it once again with two-thirds majorities in each chamber (this is known as overriding a veto). Congress plays an essential role in our democratic system by representing Americans from all states equally while making decisions that shape our nation’s future. As such, citizens should stay informed about what their representatives are doing through following news reports and engaging directly with their elected officials through letters or phone calls this will help ensure that everyone’s voice matters in shaping public policy.