The United States Congress is the national legislature, a bicameral body consisting of the Senate and the House of Representatives. Created by Article I of the Constitution, Congress enacts federal laws, levies taxes, appropriates funds, regulates interstate and foreign commerce, declares war, and oversees the executive branch.
Chambers
- Senate – 100 senators serving six-year staggered terms; roles include advice and consent on nominations and treaties.
- House of Representatives – 435 members apportioned by population, serving two-year terms; originates revenue bills and conducts impeachments.
Leadership and process
- House led by the Speaker of the House.
- Senate presided over by the Vice President; daily presiding often delegated; the President pro tempore is the chamber’s senior officer.
- Committees draft, amend, and oversee legislation before floor action; identical versions must pass both chambers before presentment to the president.