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."

Structure of Congress

The House of Representatives has 435 members, each representing a district in one of the 50 states, with the number of representatives determined by the state’s population. The Senate, on the other hand, has 100 members, with two senators representing each state, regardless of its population. This structure is established by Article I, Section 1 of the United States Constitution, which states that “All legislative Powers herein granted shall be vested in a Congress of the United States, which shall consist of a Senate and House of Representatives."