AP U.S. Government and Politics Flashcards: Congress: The Senate and the House of Representatives
Written by AP Content Team, Verified for 2026 AP Exams, Last updated: May 2026
Review key ideas with interactive flashcards. This set includes 11 cards to help you master important concepts.
How do term-length differences affect the functioning of the House and Senate?
With all members elected every two years, the House is more responsive to immediate public will, while the Senate's staggered six-year terms create a more continuous and deliberative body.
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How do term-length differences affect the functioning of the House and Senate?
With all members elected every two years, the House is more responsive to immediate public will, while the Senate's staggered six-year terms create a more continuous and deliberative body.
What are enumerated powers of Congress?
Enumerated powers are those specifically listed in the Constitution, such as the power to pass a federal budget, declare war, and regulate interstate commerce.
Identify two financial powers granted to Congress by the Constitution.
The Constitution allows Congress to pass a federal budget, raise revenue by laying and collecting taxes, borrow money, and coin money.
How does membership size influence the formality of debate in the House versus the Senate?
Debate in the House, with 435 members, is more formal than in the Senate, which has only 100 members.
If Congress holds hearings to investigate alleged misconduct within a federal agency, what constitutional function is it performing?
Congress is performing its function of conducting oversight of the executive branch and its bureaucracy.
What is the role of Congress in the public policy process regarding the military?
Congress participates by declaring war and by providing the funds necessary to maintain the armed forces.
In the context of American government, what is Republicanism?
Republicanism is the democratic principle that the will of the people is reflected in government debates and decisions by their representatives.
When Congress passes a bill to establish a new federal court, which of its enumerated powers is it using?
It is using its constitutional power to create federal courts and their jurisdictions.
Why is the Senate considered a "continuous legislative body"?
The Senate is a continuous body because only one-third of its members are elected every two years, unlike the House where all members are elected simultaneously.
What authority does the Necessary and Proper Clause grant Congress?
This clause grants Congress the authority to enact legislation required to carry out its enumerated powers, which are its implied powers.
How does the bicameral structure of Congress reflect the principle of Republicanism?
The Senate is designed to represent states equally, while the House of Representatives is designed to represent the people, ensuring different constituencies have a voice.