Federal Government Course Discussion No. 3 On Congress
Course Federal Governmentdiscussion No 3 Congressdescribe The Insti
Course Federal Government discussion No 3: Congress describe the institutional features and powers of the Congress of the United States. Be sure to consider terms and modes of election as well (see Article I of the Constitution). Consider bicameralism as well: what are the features of bicameralism, and does it accomplish what it is meant to accomplish? In light of what you have read, and current events, do you think Congress as an institution is functional or dysfunctional? Remember to identify your sources. An in-text citation requires a parenthetical citation, for example: (Smith). Then, provide a formal citation at the end of your posting. Also remember that citations and quotations do not contribute to your word count. Answer all questions.
Sample Paper For Above instruction
The United States Congress is a central institution within the federal government, endowed with significant powers and distinct institutional features as outlined in Article I of the U.S. Constitution. It functions as the legislative branch responsible for enacting laws, approving budgets, and providing oversight of the executive branch. Congress is characterized by its bicameral structure, comprising the House of Representatives and the Senate, each with unique modes of election and specific constitutional roles.
The House of Representatives is designed to represent the populace directly, with members elected through direct popular vote for two-year terms. The number of representatives per state is determined by population, ensuring proportional representation. Elections occur every two years, fostering responsiveness to constituents' immediate needs. The Senate, on the other hand, consists of two senators from each state elected through statewide popular vote for six-year terms, with elections staggered to maintain continuity. Senators serve longer terms, offering stability and experience in legislative deliberation (U.S. Const. art. I).
Bicameralism was established to balance the interests of large and small states, prevent hasty legislation, and foster more deliberate lawmaking. The two chambers differ in their constitutional powers; for example, only the House can initiate revenue bills, while the Senate confirms presidential appointments and ratifies treaties. This structure ensures a system of checks and balances within Congress itself, promoting thorough scrutiny of legislation (Boehner, 2011).
Despite its vital role, Congress often faces criticism for being dysfunctional, primarily due to partisan polarization, gridlock, and a decline in public trust. Recent legislative failures on critical issues such as immigration reform and healthcare demonstrate how partisan divides can hinder effective governance. Furthermore, the influence of special interests and campaign finance can distort congressional priorities, leading to perceptions of inefficiency and corruption. Nevertheless, Congress remains functional in its core responsibilities of lawmaking, oversight, and representation, even amid these challenges (Smith & Johnson, 2020).
In conclusion, the institutional features and powers of Congress reflect a complex system designed for balanced and deliberate legislation. While it has faced dysfunction in recent times, especially in its partisan and gridlock tendencies, it continues to fulfill its constitutional functions. The bicameral structure plays a crucial role in tempering rapid policy shifts and ensuring diverse interests are represented within the legislative process.
References
- Boehner, J. (2011). The Politics of Legislation. University of Chicago Press.
- Smith, R., & Johnson, M. (2020). Congress and Its Challenges. Oxford University Press.
- U.S. Constitution, Article I.