Functions of the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives

Functions of the Senate

Approves or rejects presidential appointments (e.g., Cabinet members, federal judges).
Ratifies treaties with foreign countries (requires a two-thirds vote).
Holds impeachment trials for federal officials (can convict and remove).
Participates in drafting, debating, and passing legislation.

Functions of the House of Representatives

Initiates all revenue-related bills (taxes, spending).
Can impeach federal officials (simple majority vote).
Elects the President if no candidate wins a majority in the Electoral College.
Proposes and votes on legislation alongside the Senate.

How Members Are Selected

Senators: There are 100 senators, two from each state, elected by voters in their state for six-year terms. Elections are staggered so about one-third of the Senate is up for election every two years.
Representatives: There are 435 representatives, apportioned based on population. They are elected directly by voters in their congressional districts for two-year terms. All House seats are up for election every two years.
Both senators and representatives are elected during general elections held in even-numbered years, although special elections can occur to fill vacancies.

Key Differences in Function and Authority

Size and Term: The House has 435 members serving 2-year terms; the Senate has 100 members serving 6-year terms.
Impeachment: The House impeaches, the Senate tries and potentially removes.
Appointments and Treaties: Only the Senate confirms appointments and ratifies treaties.
Legislation: Both chambers must pass identical versions of a bill for it to become law.

Examples of Their Work

In 2020, the House of Representatives impeached President Donald Trump; the Senate held the trial and acquitted him.
In 2010, both the House and Senate passed the Affordable Care Act (Obamacare), reshaping healthcare in the U.S.
The Senate confirmed Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson to the Supreme Court in 2022.
The House passed major spending packages, such as the Inflation Reduction Act in 2022, which was also approved by the Senate.

Conclusion

The U.S. Senate and House of Representatives work together to craft and pass laws, but each has distinct powers and responsibilities. Their checks and balances ensure that no single body or branch has too much authority, maintaining a robust democratic system.