The United States Congress is a bicameral legislature composed of the Senate and the House of Representatives. This division is fundamental to the structure of the legislative branch.

The legislative branch is responsible for drafting, debating, and passing laws. Its lawmaking role is what distinguishes it from the executive and judicial branches.

Among its duties, the Senate confirms Presidential appointments such as cabinet members and judges. This power acts as a check on the executive branch.

The U.S. Constitution specifies that all bills related to revenue must originate in the House of Representatives. This ensures that financial legislation is closely tied to the people's elected officials.

Members of the House of Representatives are elected to serve two-year terms. This short term is designed to ensure that representatives remain accountable to their constituents.

Impeachment is the constitutional mechanism used by Congress to charge a President with misconduct. Following impeachment, a Senate trial determines whether removal from office is warranted.

Every state, regardless of its size or population, is represented by two senators. This principle is designed to provide equal representation in the Senate for all states.

The United States Constitution lays out the structure, powers, and limitations of the legislative branch. It remains the supreme law governing the functions of Congress.

A filibuster is a tactic used by senators to extend debate and delay or block legislative votes. This procedural maneuver allows a minority in the Senate to exert influence over legislative decisions.

The Constitution grants the House of Representatives the exclusive power to originate revenue-related legislation. This allocation ties financial issues to elected representatives from the people.

Congressional committees are specialized groups that examine the details of legislation before it reaches the full chamber. Their detailed review and amendments help improve the quality and effectiveness of laws.

The primary responsibility for carrying out and enforcing laws lies with the executive branch. The President, as head of this branch, ensures that the laws passed by Congress are implemented effectively.

After a bill passes both the House and Senate, it is sent to the President for approval. A Presidential signature is required to officially enact the bill into law, although Congress can override a veto.

The U.S. Constitution establishes a clear separation of powers among the legislative, executive, and judicial branches. This framework is designed to prevent any one branch from accumulating too much power.

The President, as the chief executive, has the role of commanding the armed forces. This power is a key aspect of the executive branch's responsibility for national security.

One of the fundamental checks is Congress' ability to override a presidential veto with a two-thirds majority vote. This mechanism ensures that the executive branch does not have unchecked power over lawmaking.

The Senate's power to confirm ambassadors plays a crucial role in forming U.S. foreign policy. This responsibility allows senators to indirectly influence diplomatic strategies and relationships.

When the President and Congress are controlled by rival parties, reaching compromises can be difficult. This political divide often leads to legislative gridlock, where important bills are stalled.

Bicameralism mandates that legislation must be approved by both the House and Senate, which encourages in-depth discussion and necessary compromise. This structure helps to filter and refine laws before implementation.

Committees allow legislators to specialize in complex issues by holding hearings and performing detailed examinations of proposed legislation. This process ensures that policies are carefully evaluated before reaching the full chamber.