At a time when public faith and trust in congress has drastically been reduced. It is important to reflect on the role of Congress in American life. The US Congress is the critical legislative arm of the US government. Together with the Executive and the Judiciary, the work done by the Congress influence American life politically, socially, economically and culturally. Congress makes laws that define the course of American society and politics. It also makes sure that the executive and the judiciary branch does not in any way abuse the powers they are accorded by the US constitution.
According to the United States Constitution, congress has a varied number of roles it plays. Members of Congress in the House of representatives and the Senate are required to vote on issues that are tabled in Congress. The US constitution stipulates that members of congress “connive, hatch ideas, propagandize, assail enemies, vote, build coalitions, shepherd legislation, and in general cut a figure in public affairs” (Mayhew 9). According to Article 1 of the constitution, Congress has the right to declare war, raise and provide money for public use and it oversees investigations.
The US Congress is divided into two branches which have equal amount of power and roles. The burden of making legislation is divided between the two branches. The Senate has the advise and consent powers which means that they have the right to approve of treaties negotiated by the executive. The House on the other hand is tasked with matters of spending.
It can be noted that of the two branches, the Senate is the most powerful. Senator power is more evenly distributed. It also the the power to try impeachments. The House does have the power to impeach but needs the Senate approval.
Works Cited
Mayhew, David. America’s Congress: Actions in the Public Sphere, James Madison Through Newt Gingrich. New Haven, CT: Yale University Press, 2000.
