U.S. Congress Powers and Functions

This video provides an outline of the U.S. Constitution, focusing on Article One, which details the structure and powers of Congress. It explains the bicameral nature of Congress, the impeachment process, and how laws are made. The video also covers the enumerated powers of Congress, the elastic clause, and specific prohibitions on both Congress and the states. The importance of checks and balances, as well as the roles of the House of Representatives and the Senate, are highlighted.

What is the primary purpose of the Preamble of the Constitution?

• To detail the rights of citizens

• To list the amendments

• To outline the goals and philosophy of the government

• To describe the judicial branch

How is the U.S. Congress structured according to Article One?

• It is a unicameral body

• It is a bicameral body with the House of Representatives and the Senate

• It is a council of governors

• It consists of three houses

Who has the power to impeach a public official?

• The Senate

• The President

• The House of Representatives

• The Supreme Court

What is required for a bill to become a law?

• A unanimous vote in the Senate

• A majority vote in both houses and the President's signature

• Approval by the Supreme Court

• Approval by the Vice President

What happens if the President vetoes a bill?

• The bill is discarded permanently

• The bill is sent to the Supreme Court

• The bill is automatically passed

• Congress can override the veto with a two-thirds vote in each house

Which power is specifically granted to Congress?

• To declare war

• To amend the Constitution

• To appoint Supreme Court justices

• To veto state laws

What is the 'elastic clause' in the context of Congress's powers?

• A clause that restricts state powers

• A clause that limits Congress's powers

• A clause that allows Congress to make necessary and proper laws

• A clause that grants the President additional powers

Which action is Congress prohibited from doing?

• Establishing post offices

• Regulating commerce

• Suspending the writ of habeas corpus

• Declaring war

What is one thing states cannot do without Congress's consent?

• Issue their own currency

• Regulate interstate commerce

• Establish a state religion

• Declare war

What must states do in relation to other states according to the Constitution?

• Treat all states equally

• Allow free trade between states

• Adopt the same laws as neighboring states

• Share tax revenue with other states