Understanding the Name- What is the US Government’s Legislative Branch Called-

What is the legislative branch of the US government called? It is known as the United States Congress. The Congress is a bicameral legislature, consisting of two houses: the House of Representatives and the Senate. Together, these two houses form the core of the legislative branch, responsible for making laws, declaring war, and overseeing the federal budget. In this article, we will delve into the structure, functions, and historical significance of the United States Congress.

The House of Representatives is the lower house of Congress, with members elected from single-member districts across the country. The number of representatives is determined by the population of each state, with each state having at least one representative. The House is designed to be more representative of the American population, as it has more members than the Senate, which is the upper house.

The Senate, on the other hand, is composed of two senators from each state, regardless of population. This structure was intended to ensure that each state has an equal say in the legislative process. The Senate has several unique powers, including the ability to confirm presidential appointments and ratify treaties.

The legislative branch’s primary function is to make laws. This process begins with a bill being introduced in either the House or the Senate. If a bill passes in one house, it must then be approved by the other house. Once both houses have passed the bill, it is sent to the president for approval. If the president signs the bill, it becomes a law. If the president vetoes the bill, Congress can override the veto with a two-thirds majority in both houses.

In addition to lawmaking, the legislative branch has several other important responsibilities. The House and Senate both have committees that oversee various aspects of government. These committees investigate issues, hold hearings, and propose legislation. The legislative branch also plays a crucial role in the budget process, as it must approve the annual federal budget.

The United States Congress has a long and storied history. It was established by the Constitution, which was drafted in 1787 and ratified in 1788. The first Congress convened in New York City in 1789. Over the years, the Congress has played a vital role in shaping the nation’s history, including the passage of significant legislation such as the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990.

The legislative branch also serves as a check on the executive and judicial branches of government. By holding hearings, investigating government agencies, and approving or rejecting presidential appointments, Congress ensures that the other branches remain accountable to the American people.

In conclusion, the legislative branch of the US government is called the United States Congress. It is a bicameral legislature, consisting of the House of Representatives and the Senate, and is responsible for making laws, overseeing the budget, and ensuring that the other branches of government remain accountable. The Congress has a rich history and continues to play a crucial role in shaping the nation’s future.