The Legislative Branch
The Legislative branch Bicameral legislature? Two houses (chambers) The United States House of Representatives The United States Senate
What does the legislative branch do? How a bill becomes a law House of Representatives Committees Senate President
The Legislative Branch Bell ringer Describe the structure of the United States congress. (hint: what is a bicameral legislature?)
The Legislative Branch
The Legislative Branch Congressional terms Begin Jan. 3rd, odd numbered years Two years Each term is divided into two sessions Sessions last one year Congress remains in session until they vote to adjourn President can call special session
House Senate Number of members Qualifications Term of Office 435 Apportioned or divided among states based on population 25 years old Citizen for at least 7 years Traditionally, live in district Every two years!!!
Representation and reapportionment Census The population of each state determines the new number of representatives which each state is entitled—a process called reapportionment
Redistricting Congressional districts—one for each representative The process for setting up new district lines is called redistricting
Pair and share How do you think political parties could use redistricting to their advantage!? Gerrymandering
House Senate Number of members Qualifications Term of Office 435 Apportioned or divided among states based on population 2 members from each state 25 years old Citizen for at least 7 years Traditionally, live in district 30 years old Citizen for 9 years Legal resident of state Every two years!!! 6 year terms 1/3 run for reelection every two years
Congress = 535 members 100 senators + 435 Representatives There are also 4 nonvoting delegates from U.S. territories
Discussion question: Incumbents are members already in office If you were running for congress would you rather be an incumbent or a challenger? Why? Easier to raise campaign funds because they have connections Gerrymandering Better known Use their position to help voters Voted them into office
Parking lot