Understanding Congressional Roles and Responsibilities

The video tutorial discusses the roles and benefits of Congress members, including their salary, franking privilege, and the support they receive from staff and interns. It explains the resources available to them, such as the CRS, GAO, and CBO, and highlights their legislative duties, including casework. The tutorial also covers pork barrel projects and earmarks, emphasizing the competition among Congress members to secure federal funds for their districts.

What is the annual salary for both a senator and a House member?

• $150,000

• $200,000

• $250,000

• $174,000

What is the franking privilege?

• Free meals in Washington

• Ability to send job-related mail for free

• Free office space

• Free travel for Congress members

Who typically assists Congress members with research and office duties?

• Personal staff

• Interns

• Pages

• Lobbyists

What is the role of pages in Congress?

• Drafting bills

• Delivering messages and running errands

• Conducting research

• Organizing committee hearings

Which office reviews the spending activities of federal agencies?

• Congressional Research Service

• General Accounting Office

• Congressional Budget Office

• Office of Management and Budget

What is the primary function of the Congressional Budget Office?

• To provide budgetary information and analyses

• To draft legislation

• To manage congressional staff

• To conduct elections

What is the main legislative duty of Congress members?

• Conducting foreign policy

• Writing laws and introducing bills

• Managing state budgets

• Appointing judges

What is casework in the context of a Congress member's duties?

• Assisting constituents with federal government issues

• Organizing political campaigns

• Drafting new laws

• Conducting research for bills

What are pork barrel projects?

• Military defense projects

• International aid programs

• Government spending that benefits a member's home district or state

• Projects that benefit the entire nation

Why is the pursuit of pork barrel projects significant for Congress members?

• It reduces the national debt

• It increases their personal wealth

• It helps them gain international recognition

• It benefits their constituents and can enhance their political effectiveness