Legislative Branch Key Terms

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Power of the Purse

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Congress's authority to control federal spending and taxation, giving it significant influence over government finances.

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Power of Oversight

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Congress's ability to monitor and review the actions of the executive branch and federal agencies to ensure they are implementing laws effectively and legally.

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Senate

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One of the two chambers of Congress, consisting of two Senators from each state, with powers including ratifying treaties and confirming Presidential appointments.

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House of Representatives

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The other chamber of Congress, with members elected based on population size from each state, responsible for initiating revenue bills and impeaching federal officials.

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Commerce Clause

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A provision in the Constitution granting Congress the power to regulate interstate and international commerce.

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Levy Taxes

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The authority granted to Congress to impose and collect taxes to fund government operations and services.

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Necessary and Proper Clause

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Allows Congress to make laws required to execute its enumerated powers and carry out its responsibilities effectively, also known as the Elastic Clause.

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Impeachment

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The process by which Congress formally charges a federal official with misconduct, potentially leading to removal from office.

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Senate’s Trial of Impeachment

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The procedure where the Senate conducts a trial to determine whether to remove an impeached federal official from office, requiring a two-thirds majority vote for conviction.

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Advice and Consent

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The Senate's role in approving Presidential appointments and treaties, as specified in the Constitution.