Importance of Congress

Congress plays a critical role in the system of government in the United States, providing a check on the power of the executive branch and ensuring that the interests of the people are represented. It also provides a forum for debate and discussion on important issues, allowing for a diversity of perspectives and opinions to be heard. As noted by the National Archives, “The Constitution gives Congress the power to make laws, declare war, and approve presidential appointments, among other things."

How Congress Works

Congress works by a process of making laws in Congress involves several steps, including introduction, committee review, debate, and voting A member of Congress introduces a bill, which is then referred to a committee for review and markup The committee may hold hearings and gather input from experts and stakeholders before voting on the bill If the bill passes out of committee, it is then debated and voted on by the full chamber If the bill passes, it is sent to the other chamber (either the House or Senate) for consideration, and if it passes in both chambers, it is sent to the president for signature or vet.