1. The Legislative Branch
House of Reps
Senate
I. Organization
A. Bicameral Congress- two houses. Why?
1. Historical- both British and colonial legislatures had 2 houses- familiar.
2. Political- 2 houses allowed compromise over representation.
a. Senate- 100 members- 2 from each state.
b. House of Representatives- 435 members- proportional representation.
3. Separation of Powers- Houses can check each other.

2. B. Terms
1. Representatives are elected every two years. Why?
a. Advantages?
- More responsive to their constituents (people in their district).
b. Disadvantages?
- May have to bend to political pressure to get re-elected.
2. Senators elected to 6 year terms. One-third of senate seats up for election every 2 years.
a. Less likely to be swayed by political winds. Can focus more on general welfare of the nation, not just their district.
b. Represent entire state- more diverse population.