The Legislative Branch
Congress - The branch of government that makes laws
Overview
The legislative branch is one of the three branches of the U.S. federal government, established by Article I of the Constitution. It is responsible for making federal laws, declaring war, approving presidential appointments, and controlling the federal budget.
The Congress of the United States
Congress is a bicameral legislature, meaning it has two chambers: the Senate and the House of Representatives.
The Senate
100 Senators — Two senators from each state, serving 6-year terms.
Leadership
- President: Vice President of the United States
- President Pro Tempore: Senior majority party senator
Key Powers
- Confirming presidential appointments (Cabinet, judges)
- Ratifying treaties
- Conducting impeachment trials
- Approving the federal budget
House of Representatives
435 Representatives — Based on state population, serving 2-year terms.
Leadership
- Speaker of the House: Leader of the majority party
Key Powers
- Originating revenue bills
- Initiating impeachment proceedings
- Electing the President in case of electoral college tie
- Approving presidential appointments
117th Congress (2025-2027)
Republican majority in Congress as of February 2026.
How a Bill Becomes Law
- Introduction: A bill can be introduced in either the House or Senate
- Committee Action: The bill is sent to a committee for study and debate
- Floor Action: The bill is debated and voted on in the originating chamber
- Second Chamber: The bill goes to the other chamber, which may approve, reject, or amend
- Conference Committee: Differences between versions are reconciled
- Presidential Action: The President signs the bill into law or vetoes it
Constitutional Foundation
"All Bills for raising Revenue shall originate in the House of Representatives; but the Senate may propose or concur with Amendments as on other Bills."
— Article I, Section 7 of the U.S. Constitution
Article I grants Congress enumerated powers and the Necessary and Proper Clause, allowing Congress to make laws "necessary and proper" for carrying out its duties.