The Organization of Congress

Opening day House Every two years all positions must be refilled.

Opening Day Senate The Senate is a continuous body.

State of the Union President’s speech presented to both houses of Congress. Outlines presidential policy for the upcoming year

The Presiding officers Speaker of the House- elected presiding officer Leader of the majority Duties: 1. to preside 2. keep order Recognizes all speakers 3rd in line to President Speaker of the House John Boehner

The president pro tempore serves in the VP’s absence. The President of the Senate- The Vice president is the president of the Senate. The president pro tempore serves in the VP’s absence. Longest serving member of the majority party. 4th in line to the presidency. Dan Inouye – president pro tempore

Party officers Party caucuses are closed meetings of the members of each party. Floor leaders represent the majority and the minority party. Are responsible for carrying out party decisions Majority Leader – Eric Cantor Minority Leader- Nancy Pelosi

Majority leader – 2nd most powerful member of congress Whips- connect party with members and line up votes. Kevin McCarthy- Majority Whip

Committee Chairmen Most work is done in committee Chairmen are chosen from the majority party Decide when to meet What bills to discuss Dave Camp- Chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee

Seniority Rules Unwritten custom followed closely in both the House and the Senate.