United States Senate

United States Senate is the upper chamber of the United States Congress, which, along with the United States House of Representatives—the lower chamber—comprises the legislative branch of the federal government of the United States.

History

The United States Senate was established by the United States Constitution in 1787. The Constitution grants the Senate the power to provide advice and consent on treaties and nominations, a power not granted to the House of Representatives.

Composition

The Senate is composed of 100 members, two from each state, regardless of population size. This ensures equal representation for each state in the Senate. Senators serve six-year terms, with terms staggered so that approximately one-third of the seats are up for election every two years.

Powers

The Senate has several exclusive powers not granted to the House, including consenting to treaties, confirming federal appointments (including Supreme Court justices), and trying impeachment cases for federal officials referred by the House.

Procedure

The Senate operates under a set of standing rules, but the Senate's presiding officer, the Vice President of the United States, has the power to enforce these rules. The Vice President, however, does not have a vote in the Senate, except to break ties.

Committees

The Senate divides its tasks among 20 permanent committees, 68 subcommittees, and 4 joint committees. These committees review bills and issues in their respective areas and can have a significant impact on legislation.

See also

• United States Congress
• United States House of Representatives
• Vice President of the United States

United States Senate Resources
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