AP Gov Exam Question

Explain the structure and powers of the United States Congress. In your answer, address the following:

1. Describe the structure of Congress, including the two chambers and their composition.
2. Explain the powers of Congress, both enumerated and implied.
3. Discuss the checks and balances on Congress' power and its relationship with the other branches of government.

Answer

1. Structure of Congress and Composition:

   The United States Congress consists of two chambers: the House of Representatives and the Senate.

   • House of Representatives: The House of Representatives is composed of 435 members, apportioned to each state based on its population. Each state is divided into districts, and the number of representatives per state depends on its population size. Members of the House serve two-year terms.

   • Senate: The Senate consists of 100 members, with each state having two senators regardless of its population. Senators serve six-year terms, staggered so that about one-third of the Senate is up for election every two years.

2. Powers of Congress:

   • Enumerated Powers: These are powers specifically listed in Article I, Section 8 of the Constitution. They include the authority to levy taxes, borrow money, regulate commerce, coin money, declare war, provide for national defense, establish federal courts, and more. These powers are directly granted to Congress by the Constitution.

   • Implied Powers: Congress also has implied powers, derived from the Necessary and Proper Clause (Article I, Section 8, Clause 18). This clause grants Congress the authority to make all laws "necessary and proper" for carrying out its enumerated powers. Implied powers allow Congress to adapt to changing circumstances and address unforeseen issues.

3. Checks and Balances and Relationship with other branches:

   • Executive Branch Oversight: Congress exercises oversight over the executive branch through various means, such as confirmation hearings for executive appointments, impeachment proceedings, and the power to investigate government activities.

   • Legislative Process: The president plays a role in the legislative process through the veto power, requiring Congress to achieve a two-thirds majority in both chambers to override a veto. Congress also has the power to impeach and remove the president or other high-ranking officials.

   • Judicial Review: The Supreme Court, the judicial branch, can declare acts of Congress unconstitutional through the power of judicial review. Congress, in turn, has the authority to shape the number and jurisdiction of federal courts, including the Supreme Court.

   • Power of the Purse: Congress holds the power of the purse, controlling the allocation of federal funds. It can use this power to influence and limit the actions of the executive branch.

   • Amendment Process: Congress is involved in the process of amending the Constitution. Proposed amendments require approval by two-thirds of both chambers before being sent to the states for ratification.

In conclusion, the United States Congress is structurally divided into the House of Representatives and the Senate, each with its own composition. Congress possesses both enumerated and implied powers, allowing it to enact legislation on various issues. Its powers are checked by the executive and judicial branches, and Congress plays a crucial role in the system of checks and balances that governs the United States government.