close
close

Pasteleria-edelweiss

Real-time news, timeless knowledge

What is the difference between the Senate and the House of Representatives in Congress?
bigrus

What is the difference between the Senate and the House of Representatives in Congress?

Today is Tuesday, November 5 (Why this Tuesday?), the United States holds its own presidential election. Americans will choose between a second term for Donald Trump or Kamala Harris and the nation’s first female president.

The United States Congress is often referred to as a single entity, but it is a combination of two separate bodies: the House of Representatives and the Senate.

There are many similarities between them, because both representatives and senators are directly elected by Americans, and approval of legislation requires the agreement of both. So what are the differences between them?

US Senate and House of Representatives

Accordingly Article 1, Sections 2 and 3 between ConstitutionHouse members are elected every two years, while senators serve for six years.

In addition, Age and citizenship requirements vary. Members of the House must be at least twenty-five years old and have been citizens for at least seven years, while senators must be at least thirty years old and have been citizens for nine years.

Another difference lies in representation. Senators represent entire states, while House members represent individual districts. Additionally, both the House of Representatives and the Senate have different rules and governing procedures. Party leaders and committees also work differently in each chamber.

Term length and number of members also affect each institution. The Parliament, which has four times the number of members, follows procedures closely and limits debate. Debates in the Senate are virtually unrestricted, giving all members a chance to influence the proceedings.