The Powers and Responsibilities of Congress

The video explains the powers and functions of the U.S. Congress, including law-making, budgeting, taxation, investigations, and checks on the executive branch. It details the unique powers of the House of Representatives and the Senate, such as impeachment, revenue legislation, treaty approval, and federal appointments. The video also covers the role of congressional committees and concludes with a review and practice questions.

What is the primary function of Congress as outlined in the Constitution?

• To veto laws

• To make and amend laws

• To interpret laws

• To enforce laws

How can Congress override a presidential veto?

• With approval from the Supreme Court

• With a unanimous vote in the Senate

• With a 2/3 majority vote in both the House and the Senate

• With a simple majority in both houses

What financial power does Congress have if it cannot raise enough money through taxes?

• Cut government programs

• Increase tariffs

• Borrow money from other countries

• Print more money

Which of the following is a power of congressional committees?

• To approve treaties

• To appoint federal judges

• To oversee specific government practices

• To declare war

Which committee is responsible for overseeing energy and natural resources?

• Armed Services Committee

• Energy and Natural Resources Committee

• Foreign Relations Committee

• Judiciary Committee

What unique power does the House of Representatives have?

• To approve treaties

• To impeach federal officials

• To declare war

• To appoint Supreme Court justices

What is a unique power of the Senate?

• To approve or reject treaties with other countries

• To elect the President in case of an Electoral College tie

• To impeach federal officials

• To initiate revenue legislation