The Legislative Branch Of The Federal Government

Discusses the executive branch of government in the United States, including its purpose and relation to the other branches of government, and presents profiles of the Presidents of the United States.

The Legislative Branch, created by Article I of the Constitution, is comprised of the House of Representatives and the Senate, which together form the United States Congress. This book not only studies the powers of the legislative branch and the organization of both houses of Congress, but also examines the legislative process and how a bill ultimately can become a law. This book gives readers a detailed look at how their government really works to both create and pass lasting legislation.

The checks and balances provided by the three branches of federal government are essential to nurturing and maintaining American democracy. With the guidance of coeditors Paul J. Quirk and Sarah A. Binder, this collection of essays examines the role of the Legislature in American democracy and the dynamic between the other branches of government, and discusses possible measures for reform. The volume addresses questions such as: How does Congress serve the values of democracy and American constitutional principles? Which conceptions of those values does it implement, and which does it overlook or fail to realize? What are Congress's strengths and weaknesses in performing the tasks of democratic governance? What reforms, if any, are necessary to ensure the health and success of Congress as an institution of democracy in the future?

This volume focuses on the U.S. Congress, its history, constitutional powers, daily workings, and the politics that affect its operation. Spanning the history of the federal system of government of the United States, The Legislative Branch of Federal Government: People, Process, and Politics looks at the evolution of the U.S. Congress over the past 225+ years, then describes its current structure, responsibilities, and daily operations. Readers will learn how congressional powers have changed with different interpretations of the Constitution, how a colorful gallery of power brokers (famous and infamous) made its mark, and how politics (both electoral and within the Capitol) affects legislation, oversight efforts, and other actions. The volume includes a "mini-pedia" of alphabetically organized entries and the concluding chapter highlights some fascinating examples of interactions between Congress and the other branches of federal government.

This guide for young readers explains the sometimes complicated concept of government by focusing on one particular and important aspect. Readers will understand what the legislative branch is and the role it plays within the state and federal government. They will also be introduced to some of the most important and interesting people who have worked in this branch of government, including both past and present members of the U.S. Congress. Full-color photos and diagrams help to illustrate what kind of decisions are made in Congress and how those decisions affect the everyday lives of Americans.

Prepare readers for the next presidential election with this engaging introduction to the Legislative Branch. Learn how the Legislative Branch enacts laws that impact your daily life through fact-filled sidebars, historical context, and examples from the present day.

The U.S. Congress is by the far the least popular (and most misunderstood) branch of the federal government. Congress in Context de-mystifies the institution, giving students a comprehensive and practical understanding of Congress and the legislative process. This book takes a different approach to the study of Congress than other texts. Usually Congress is treated in isolation from the rest of the government. But the Framers of the Constitution explicitly intended for the branches of government to be interdependent. Congress in Context introduces readers to Congress's critical role in the context of this interdependent system. Using the metaphor of a board of directors, the authors explain the three key roles of Congress within the federal government (authorizing what government does, funding its activities, and supervising how it carries out the laws Congress passes) and shows students how Congress interacts with the rest of the government to exercise these powers. The thoroughly expanded and revised second edition features brand-new chapters on Congress and the courts and Congress and interest groups. It also includes expanded coverage of Congress's relationship with the executive branch, campaign finance, and today's major budget issues. Grounded in the latest political science literature coupled with contemporary examples, Congress in Context offers students an informed yet accessible introduction to how the legislative branch carries out its duties.

How are the rules made? What is Congress' role? What are the differences between the two Houses? Students discover the answers as they participate in challenging activities, simulate a mock Congress and examine historical documents.