Congress

Congress in the Constitution 1776 “ “ Did the Founders consider Congress to be of great or little importance? Which Article? How much attention in the Constitution?

Functions of Congress: Representation A. Trustee Elected based on Voter’s confidence in his values and judgment Voters expect them to use their judgment B. Delegate Elected but expected to vote just as his constituents would if they were polled Which do you Prefer? Which did the Founders expect or prefer?

Functions of Congress: Compromise and Consensus-building Oversight and Investigation Hearings on mismanaged laws Hearings on scandal or law violations Policy Clarification

Functions of Congress: SENATE Confirming Appointments Federal Judges Ambassadors Cabinet members and others Ratifying Treaties with foreign nations Treaties with international organizations

Functions of Congress Lawmaking From Idea to Law (How a bill becomes a law)

Speaker of  the House   Senate  leadership Amendments must be Germane Generally: Closed Rule, Limited debate/ No amendments Filibuster Possible

Structure of Congress Committees Rules VS Norms

U.S. House VS U.S. Senate 435 Members100 Members 2-year term6-year term Districts W/ Equal Populations Represent whole state Limited DebateUnlimited Debate: Filibuster possible Rigid RulesFlexible Norms Powerful SpeakerWeak President (pro tem) Concentration of power among committee chairs Egalitarian dispersion of power No Amendments on floorAmendments from the floor common No non-germane amendmentsNon-germane amendments possible Originates Tax or Spending BillsRatifies Treaties Confirms Appointments

Stuff to think about: Who is in Congress? How do Congress Members decide Fragmentation in Congress Coordination in Congress