1. Legislative Branch

2. Continental Formation  Framers were opposed to the concentration of power in single institution.  Wanted to balance large and small states: bicameralism- House and Senate.  Expected Congress to be the dominant institution.

3. On the Job  Each Congress begins in the beginning of the new year on odd numbered years.  If out of session President can call them back to the job.  Times varies: usually they start up in the beginning of January and ends sometime between mid-November to end of December.

4. Getting the House Job  435 Politicians comprise of the House  All states guaranteed 1 delegate.  Must be 25 years old, a 7 yr. citizen, and legal resident of state.  Elected in even numbered years, every 2 years.

5. Shifting Numbers in the House  Every 10 yrs. federal gov’t conducts census to gather population numbers in states. Can lead to decrease of increase in number of Reps.  1929 Congress set cap on Reps at 435.  Political Census Political Census Political Census

6. Redrawing the lines  Redistricting- establishing election zones based on number of delegates every 10 yrs.  Redistricting has been abused and given name of “gerrymandering.” Skews population numbers and political lines.  Why would they do this?

7. PA District Map

8. District 6

9. Gerrymandering Example 2000 2004 2000 2004

10. Gerrymandering  District lines are completely irregular. Named after Elbridge Gerry of Mass.

11. Joining the Senate  100 Members, 2 from each state  Must be 30 yrs. old, 9 yrs. a citizen, legal resident of state.  Serve 6 yrs. terms, 33% elected every 2 yrs.

12. Privileges of Congress  Only can be arrested for treason and breach of peace while in session.  Large staff, office credit card, multiple houses and tax write offs.

13. How to spot a member of Congress  Average age is above 50 years.  Still primarily white and Christian, although changes are being made.

14. Getting re-elected  90% of incumbents in office will be re- elected.  Some districts are empty and have only 1 party that runs. WHY?  How has the Internet changed things now?