The U.S. Congress
A Visual Guide to the Legislative Branch
535
Total Voting Members
~2%
Of Bills Become Law
2 Years
Term of a Congress
A Tale of Two Chambers
House of Representatives
Known as the “lower” chamber, designed to be more responsive to the people with representatives elected every two years from smaller districts.
- ▸Members: 435
- ▸Term Length: 2 Years
- ▸Minimum Age: 25
- ▸Key Powers: Initiates revenue bills, impeachment
The Senate
Known as the “upper” chamber, designed to be more deliberative with longer, six-year terms and statewide constituencies.
- ▸Members: 100
- ▸Term Length: 6 Years
- ▸Minimum Age: 30
- ▸Key Powers: Confirms appointments, ratifies treaties
The Powers of Congress
Article I of the Constitution grants Congress specific “enumerated” powers, forming the foundation of federal authority. These powers are extensive, covering economic, defensive, and governmental functions.
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Economic & Financial
Levy taxes, borrow money, coin money, and regulate interstate commerce.
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Defense & National Security
Declare war, raise and support armies, and provide a navy.
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Governmental & Judicial
Establish post offices, create federal courts, and set rules for naturalization.
The Path of a Bill
From an idea to a law is a long and challenging journey. A bill must pass through committees, debates, and votes in both chambers before heading to the President’s desk.
A member of Congress introduces a bill in their chamber.
The bill is assigned to a committee for study, hearings, and revisions.
The bill is debated and voted on by the full chamber (House or Senate).
If passed, the bill is sent to the other chamber to repeat the process.
A conference committee may resolve differences between House and Senate versions.
The final bill is sent to the President to be signed into law or vetoed.
Congress by the Numbers
Data reveals the changing face and function of our legislature. The following charts explore party control, legislative productivity, and key demographics, offering a snapshot of the institution today.
Party Control: 118th Congress (2023-25)
Party Control: 119th Congress (Projected)
Legislative Funnel (117th Congress)
Average Age of Congress Over Time
Your Voice in Congress
Understanding Congress is the first step. Participating is the next. As a constituent, you have the right and the responsibility to engage with your elected officials. Here’s how you can start.
Find and Contact Your Representatives