The House of Representatives is the lower house in the United States Congress.
Often referred to as "the House," this legislative body plays a critical role in the American political system. It is called the lower house primarily because of its larger membership compared to the Senate, which is the upper house. Each state's representation in the House is based on its population, ensuring that larger states have more representatives, while smaller states still have at least one.
Membership and Terms in the House
The composition of the House of Representatives reflects the diverse population of the United States. Its structure is designed to provide direct representation from districts within each state.
Current Composition:
| Type of Member | Number | Term Length | Representation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Voting Members | 435 | 2 years | Congressional districts based on population |
| Delegates | 5 | 2 years | U.S. territories (e.g., American Samoa, Guam, U.S. Virgin Islands, Northern Mariana Islands) and the District of Columbia |
| Resident Commissioner | 1 | 4 years | Puerto Rico |
While Delegates and the Resident Commissioner can participate in debates and vote in committees, they do not have full voting privileges on the House floor.
Key Responsibilities and Powers
As part of the legislative branch, the House of Representatives holds significant powers and responsibilities, which include:
- Initiating Revenue Bills: All bills for raising revenue must originate in the House of Representatives, reflecting its direct connection to the populace through proportional representation.
- Impeachment Power: The House has the sole power to impeach federal officials, including the President, for "Treason, Bribery, or other high Crimes and Misdemeanors."
- Electing the President: In the event that no candidate receives a majority of electoral votes in a presidential election, the House of Representatives elects the President.
- Legislative Process: Along with the Senate, the House works to draft, debate, and pass legislation that impacts all aspects of American life.
Understanding the House of Representatives is crucial to comprehending the checks and balances within the U.S. government. Its design ensures that the voice of the people is directly heard in the legislative process. For more information, you can visit the official House of Representatives website.
