US Congress Roles and Committees

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Speaker of the House

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The presiding officer of the United States House of Representatives, elected by the House members. Responsible for maintaining order during debates, recognizing members to speak, and overseeing the legislative process.

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President of the Senate

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The Vice President of the United States, who presides over the Senate and has the power to cast tie-breaking votes.

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President Pro Tempore

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A senior member of the Senate, elected by the Senate, who presides over the Senate in the absence of the Vice President. Typically the longest-serving member of the majority party.

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Majority Leaders

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The leaders of the majority party in both the House and Senate. Responsible for setting the legislative agenda and coordinating the party's strategy.

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Minority Leaders

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The leaders of the minority party in both the House and Senate. Responsible for opposing the majority party's agenda and advocating for their party's policies.

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Whips

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Members of Congress responsible for counting votes and ensuring that their party's members are present for important votes.

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Standing Committees

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Permanent committees in Congress that specialize in specific areas of legislation, such as agriculture, finance, or foreign affairs.

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Select Committees

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Temporary committees in Congress formed to investigate specific issues or problems.

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Joint Committees

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Committees that include members from both the House and Senate, typically formed to address issues that require cooperation between the two chambers.

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Conference Committees

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Temporary committees formed to reconcile differences between versions of a bill passed by the House and Senate.